A wide range of numnahs and saddlecloths are now available catering for the needs and desires of every rider, so check out HHO’s guide to seven of the best
Griffin Nuumed HiWither Original
This top quality numnah is made from deep wool pile with a 5oz quilted lining and rolled edge. It offers high levels of protection to the horse’s back, while ensuring clearance over the wither.
This smart choice is suitable for every day or competition use and is available in GP, dressage and WH styles in a choice of black, brown or natural. Manufactured in medium, large and extra large sizes, although smaller numnahs can be made to order. Costs around £70. Contact (tel: 01458 210324).
PolyPad Classic saddlepad
Designed to provide a uniform bearing surface under the saddle, the classic rectangular PolyPad is a popular choice with many riders. Manufactured in the UK from tough polycotton, quilted to a cushioned fibre core, it stays firmly in place without straps. Available in a choice of single, plus one and doubler thicknesses in a range of colours. Costs around £22. Contact (tel: 01284 850511).
Comfort Zone Airflex saddlecloth
The lightweight breathable Airflex Saddlecloth from Comfort Zone uses hexagonal pads, which move with the horses muscle structure to reduce pressure points. Designed with a high cut wither in a choice of dressage and general purpose styles, the saddle cloth is smart and hard wearing making it suitable for daily or competition use. Available in black or white. Costs around £44. (tel: 01476 585188).
Morpheus Designs Thelwell saddlecoth
These quilted 100% cotton saddlecloths are available in lilac or sky blue and feature a choice of four Norman Thelwell pony cartoons in navy blue. An ideal present for junior riders and big kids alike, they are available in pony, cob and full sizes. Costs around £25. Contact (tel: 01892 730683).
Prolite All-in-one numnah
The Prolite All-in-one numnah provides maximum comfort for your horse with minimum fuss. The small square quilted numnah includes a built-in half inch Prolite pad to make tacking up quick and easy as well as ensuring the Prolite section is perfectly positioned. Lined with Dri-Lex to wick away sweat for minimal dampness, this numnah is available in black or white and is ideal for competition or everyday use. Costs around £64. Contact (tel: 01922 711676).
EFI cartoon saddlepad
Exclusively available from Frogpool Manor saddlery in the UK, these fun and colourful saddle pads are available with all your favourite Looney Tunes and Winnie the Pooh characters, including Buggs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Roadrunner, Taz, Tweety Pie, Tiggerand Winnie the Pooh. An ideal gift for kids of all ages. Costs around £24. Contact (tel: 020 8300 0716).
Cottage Craft Deluxe saddlecloth
This extremely reasonably priced quilted cotton saddlecloth is ideal for daily use. It has a shaped webbing spine and wither pad to ensure the horse remains comfortable and to prevent it from slipping. It is available in a range of colours in pony and full sizes. Costs around £14, so it won’t break the bank. Contact (tel: 01274 711101).
