saddle pad question

The saddle pad that I'm using makes my horse sweat really bad, is this normal or do I need a lighter one? The one I have is med weight and I had it on him today for about 30 min and he was sweating when I took it off. The sweat dryed on made his hair hard, know what I mean??? So do you think I need a lighter saddle pad? I am in Fla. And it was in the mid 80's today. Windy and really not that hot.

All horses sweat under their saddles and pads depending on how much you work them, temperature, hair coat, and type of tack. Unless the horse's back feels excessively hot under the pad, I wouldn't worry about it.

What kind of pad is it?

Very sweaty isn't really a problem unless there is excessive heat like luvs2ride said. When you take your helmet off, is your head all sweaty? Probably...and it's no big deal!

If you use a lighter (I'm guessing thinner) pad, your horse will still sweat, and it might soak through, staining your saddle.

I've always liked sheepskin (the real stuff!) pads for keeping my horse's back cool and cushioned.

Here's an informative website about the different types of saddle pad materials and their benefits/faults:
http://www.5starequineproducts.com/S...dsArticle.html

I don't think you should change saddle pad. I assume you chose that pad in the first place because that was a pad that fit well with your horse and your tack. There is nothing wrong with trying out a different pad but your horse will sweat regardless.

You might try to ride him when it's cooler outside or in the shade. Also hosing him after a hot ride will help remove those sweat marks and make him more comfortable.