Saddle pad rubbing hair off horse's back!?

I ride western with a Thinline 1/2 inch pad. I have the same problem and would love to find a solution.

Ok well I have to say I appreciate the subbers who are letting me know they have the same issue, I don't feel so alone now at least!!

NOW>>>anyone out there who HAD this same issue and has FIXED it successfully?? Come on, help us ALL out!

It's worse toward the end of winter when my mare starts shedding, but so far is still noticeable in the middle of summer.

The most frustrating part for me is not knowing what caused it since it kinda came out of nowhere! And I've been trying out different kinds of pads but since the hair is already rubbed so short, I can't tell if any of them are actually working!!

To make matters worse, Sandie now has 2 more of her stupid collagen granuloma lumps on her back caused by her allergies (usually to some sort of insect bite)...so now I'm dealing with those getting bigger and bigger! I'm thinking we may have to go on another riding hiatus and just lounge her in a surcingle while things heal up and grow back :-/ *sigh*

It is because of the courseness of the winter coat. I have a similar problem only mine is where my leg contacts my horse (and he does NOT need a lot of leg, my leg is stable etc).
The only way I've found to fix it is to clip the horse.


If you need a riser pad then your saddle does NOT fit.

If your saddle fits without it and you put a riser pad in you will cause the saddle to sit back and it will no longer fit.

Thanks Faye, I guess I'll quit worrying about it then...and body clip my horse next time! LOL