Half pad for jumping?

Question

I am starting to get into some real serious showing at some big local shows around my area. I am showing flat equitation and hunter/jumper. I always see people with half pads on for jumping. What are they for? Do I need one? The highest we will be jumping is probably 3' by next year. What do you think? Thanks!

This; http://www.doversaddlery.com/product.asp?pn=X1-19481

Answer 1

People use the sheepskin half pads in hunter shows, or over a regular saddle pad for extra padding. I would suggest getting one for hunter shows, or if your saddle is not fitted to your horse.

Answer 2

No, not the same thing. The first pad would be used alone, against the horses skin, and does pretty much what the ad discription says. The second one would be used over a regular pad.

The half-pads are nice, and kind to your horses back. They are also very trendy! Thats a pretty good price too. I think the Mattes pads are the nicest though.

Answer 3

well, technically a half pad is used to correct a saddles fit, but in the hunter show ring it has become a style thing to use one.  It kinda like, the "look" for hunters.  

granted, they do provide more cushioning but if your saddle already fits then don't use one it will be uncomfortable for your horse..

so, if your saddle fits with the bounce pad then leave it like that, but make sure to have a fitted white saddle pad also.

If it doesn't fit, go ahead and get one i guess..

also, in my opinion, its kinda a way of showing how much money you have.  The first and foremost type of half pad is the Mattes pad, and those are REALLY expensive.  Now of course there are nock-off brands, but in the beginning it showed how much money you had, and money and hunters go hand in hand.