Reinsman Saddle Pads: The Ultimate Guide for Western Riders
Discover how these premium saddle pads can enhance your horse’s comfort and performance
Reinsman APEX Premium Square Pad with Tacky Too – A premium choice for serious riders
Being a competitive barrel racer, a ranch worker who rides long hours, or a weekend warrior trail rider, understanding the features, benefits, and types of Reinsman saddle pads can really influence your riding experience. This complete manual will inform you about everything relating to these fine pads to guide you in making an informed choice regarding your equine needs.
The History and Evolution of Reinsman Saddle Pads
Reinsman’s Introduction to Equestrian Voyage-. Reinsman’s journey started in the arena of and towards manufacturing products addressing the unique needs of working horses and their riders. In several instances, in 2012, they became a part of Circle Y Saddles Brands, which opened further opportunities toward their progress without compromising the quality and innovations within the brand.
Reinsman evolved from simple wool pads to various sophisticated and technologically savvy pads utilizing special materials with unique designs. Development through ongoing research has led to many breakthroughs, mainly the Tacky Too® non-slip material and APEX premium wool processing, which have revolutionized industry standards for the western saddle pad.
Understanding Reinsman Saddle Pad Materials
Materials are extremely important; they determine the effectiveness of any saddle pad. Reinsman employs various high-quality materials for bespoke applications, all for the enhancement of comfort for the horse and performance in riding.
Reinsman APEX Ranahan Tacky Too Pad – Combining premium wool with innovative non-slip technology
Premium Wool Construction
Most of restorations pad from the company Reinsman, such as their APEX line, are 100% premium wool. The qualities inexorable in wool cannot be found in any of its synthetic counterparts.
- Best moisture wicking: The moisture is sucked easily from below the back of the horse and will leave it dry, hence preventing rubs and sores from developing because of long rides.
- Brilliant temperature regulation: The natural fiber maintains a good temperature for your horse, trying to retain it warmer on cool days and more cooling on hot ones.
- Shock absorption: Very dense fibers form a cushion around the horse’s back from impact while riding.
- Contour natural adaptation: The wool mat compresses and adapts over time to the horse’s exact back shape and distributes weight more evenly.
- Durability: Wool pads, if cared for properly, can be used for years, which automatically becomes a worthwhile investment, if one is a serious rider.
The Innovative Tacky Too® Technology
Reinsman has developed their own exclusive Tacky Too® technology, a non-slip material used in many of their saddle pads, and the companies believe this to be their greatest innovation. Here are some of the properties of this super material:
- Outstanding grip: This will keep the saddle from slipping during activity such as sharp turns or sudden stops.
- Will not damage the coat: Tacky Too® will not pull or harm your horse’s coat as some non-slip materials will.
- Breathable: The ventilated design allows airflow and has features to aid in cooling down during an active ride.
- Shock absorption: Provides extra impact protection for your horse’s back.
- Antimicrobial: Prevents the growth of bacteria and fungi, helping to keep your pad fresher in between cleanings.
- Durability: Stupidly tough even though it feels soft and holds on to its gripping properties for long periods of time.
Types of Reinsman Saddle Pads
In the range of Reinsman pads, there are some distinct types, indicators of usage for specific riding needs and adjustments horses require conformation. These would help in distinguishing the right pad for the situation.
Reinsman Contoured Tacky Too Trail Pad – Perfect for long trail rides and general riding
Performance Pads
These functional pads are engineered to meet the demands of competitive riders who require the highest level of functionality. These pads generally include:
- Contoured fit following the natural shape of a horse’s back
- Superior shock absorption materials that can withstand high-intensity activities
- Comfortable moisture management properties to keep the rider comfortable for extended rides
- The Tacky Too® non-slip bottomline prevents shifting during quick maneuvers
- Strategic reinforcement in areas that can be subject to duress
In construction and features, this popular APEX All Out Performance Saddle Pad, an outstanding bar of excellence, is excellent as it is 100% steam presses premium wool and has been designed especially for barrel racers, ropers, and other competitive Western riders.
Wool Pads
Reinsman wool pads might just be the hallmark of natural fiber pads for saddle. The APEX Ranahan Wool Pad signifies all the good of 100% steam-pressed wool:
- Natural moisture-wicking properties keep the horse’s back dry
- Dissipates heat from the horse efficiently after hard work
- Gradually conforms to the horse’s back shape for custom fit
- Very durable with care
- Loin-relief designs that prevent binding and allow for free movement
Corrective Pads
In circumstances of deemed morsels of care in quality and the desired fit to avoid any potential injury, the Reinsman has the specialized counteractives such as:
Wither Relief Pads
Specifically engineered for horses endowed with taller withers, the extra clearance is designed to minimize pinching and pressure points. The MPR Wither Maker Tacky Too® Pad is especially designed to contour and cushion while holding up to the needs of broad-shouldered horses.
Swayback Pads
Heavily dipped or swayed-backed horses can be placed into the category of the specialty contour pad for Trail Swayback by Reinsman. This modeling is intended to fill that space from the underside of the saddle to the lower curve of the swayback horse without producing unnecessary pressure or restricting weight distribution.
Bridge Pads
Unsafe pressure points are caused on the horse when it is expected to be saddled on front and rear points only. Reinsman’s Bridge Pads prevent this by using some well-placed padding, filling the gap, and allowing even better contact along the horse’s back.
Classic Pads
Reinsman Classical Pad Collection, which is the classic pad collection by Reinsman, holds timeless designs with proven efficiency for the everyday equestrian. This pad definitely fits almost every horse and rider, featuring:
- Traditional shapes with traditionally defined profiles
- Balanced combination of cushioning and weight
- Options with Tacky Too® no-slip technology
- Durable construction for everyday use
- Very competitive price points against specialty pads
Comparison of Reinsman Saddle Pad Types
| Pad Type | Best For | Key Features | Materials | Approx. Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| APEX Performance | Competition, intensive training | Maximum shock absorption, moisture management | 100% pressed wool, performance fabrics | $180-$230 |
| Wool Ranahan | All-day riding, ranch work | Natural fiber benefits, durability | 100% pressed wool | $150-$200 |
| Tacky Too® Trail | Trail riding, general use | Non-slip bottom, contoured design | Performance fabrics, Tacky Too® material | $90-$120 |
| M2 Lite | Hot weather, long rides | 40% lighter than traditional pads, cooling | Lightweight performance materials | $100-$140 |
| Corrective (various) | Horses with conformational issues | Specialized padding for specific problems | Varies by model | $110-$250 |
Proper cleaning techniques will extend the life of your Reinsman saddle pad
How to Choose the Perfect Reinsman Saddle Pad
The proper saddle blanket selection is made based on several factors rather than just an attractive color or pattern. Carefully consider these parameters when shopping for a Reinsman pad:
Sizing Considerations
Proper sizing is extremely significant here since you have to be comfortable as well as functionally sound. For example, to get the proper size:
- Measure the saddle from front to back (the part that touches the horse’s back).
- Blow it up by 2 or 3 inches, and then,
- Be sure the pad covers about 1-1.5 inches more beyond the saddle on all margins.
- This is essential for the back length for your horse in choosing standard and extended lengths.
An undersized saddle pad that cannot protect a horse’s back sufficiently will probably be unfit for use; however, an over-sized one might limit his ability to run freely or even cause the saddle to slip down his withers.
Riding Discipline Requirements
Every riding type provides different demands for both horse and equipment. Selecting the right pad for the type of riding you typically do is essential:
- Trail riding: Try using Reinsman’s Contoured Trail Pads with Tacky Too® bottoms to keep it from slipping on uneven ground.
- Barrel racing: The stability and shock absorption needed for tight turns and speed will help with the APEX All Out Performance Pad.
- Ranch work: The APEX Ranahan Wool Pad endures long hours and heavy usage.
- Pleasure riding: You can use Standard Square Contour pads to provide balanced comfort for casual riding.
- Showing: The show ring generally prefers thinner profile pads with clean lines and subtle designs.
Horse Conformation Matching
Your horse’s unique back shape should significantly influence your pad choice. Proper saddle fit with the right gullet width is essential, but even the best-fitting saddle needs the right pad to optimize comfort:
- Horses with high withers: Use the MPR Wither Maker pad to prevent painful wither pressure.
- Wide-backed horses: Choose wider profile pads for a greater surface area.
- Swayback horses: The Trail Swayback Contour Pad is designed to reduce pressure on the lower curve of a swayed back.
- Short-backed horses: Use a pad designed for a shorter-back horse but lets the hips move freely.
- Asymmetrical backs: Reinsman has a line of specialized corrective finest padding for addressing difference in uneven muscle development.
Pro Tip: Expert Consultation
With cases where conformational difficulties are very major or issues of back pain become chronic, consulting with an equine veterinarian or professional saddle-fitter before the actual selection of a corrective pad would seem wise. A corrective pad may be good for very minor fitting issues, but major problems will very likely require more extensive corrective measures.
Caring for Your Reinsman Saddle Pad
It can be said that properly maintaining your Reinsman saddle pad will go a long way to extending its life and increasing its utility. With just the right touch, a good pad can last for years without fail.
Regular cleaning and proper maintenance will extend the life of your wool saddle pad
Daily Maintenance
These everyday habits can effectively add a lifetime to the usefulness of your pad:
- Brush off all hair, dirt, and sticks after using with a stiff bristle brush.
- Dry the mat fully in a well-ventilated place before putting it away.
- Store it horizontally or draped over a rack to retain the shape properly.
- Rotate the cleansing using several pads so that the pads completely dry.
- Check often for signs of compression, wear, or damage.
Cleaning Wool Pads
The special care necessitated by wool preserves its beneficial traits. For Reinsman’s wool pads, this means:
- Remove loose dirt and hair with a curry comb or stiff brush.
- Tackle stains with a mild soap solution (use detergents safe for wool, such as Woolite).
- For more thorough cleaning, rinse with a low-pressure hose from the center outward.
- Never put wool pads in the washing machine or soak them.
- Allow to air dry completely, away from direct sunlight.
- Brush wool fibers while damp to maintain loft.
Cleaning Tacky Too® Surfaces
The Tacky Too® material requires special consideration to maintain its gripping properties:
1. Rinse the material with cool water to remove dirt and hair.
2. For stubborn stains, use a soft brush with mild soap.
3. Avoid harsh detergents or chemicals that might break down the material.
4. Let it air-dry completely before using it again.
5. Store the materials so that the Tacky Too® surface will not collect dust.
Warning
You should never put Reinsman wool pads in a washing machine or dryer. You can damage the wool fibers, cause shrinkage, and even ruin the pad’s shock-absorbing properties by machine washing it. And on the same note, machine drying can develop high heat that breaks down all both natural and synthetic materials in the pad. Always air dry your saddle pads out of direct sunlight, which causes color fade and degrades materials.
Frequently Asked Questions About Reinsman Saddle Pads
How often should I replace my Reinsman saddle pad?
A decent quality Reinsman pad, if tended to well, may last as long as 3-5 years under normal use. However, unmistakable signs of its need for replacement would include effects of very significant compression that doesn’t recover after rest, overload on the features visible on the bottom surface, or development of hard spots or noticeable thinning of padding. However, performance riders may have to replace pads more frequently, given the vigorous use.
Are Reinsman pads suitable for horses with sensitive backs?
Definitely, many Reinsman pads are a very good choice for sensitive-backed horses. The Tacky Too® material is easy on the coat, providing friction as well, while premium wool options evenly distribute superior pressure. For horses in need of special care, consider the M2 Lite pads, which are 40% lighter than traditional pads and still do an adequate job of cushioning.
Can I use a Reinsman western pad with an English saddle?
Reinsman pads are specially designed to fit the western saddle and should be avoided for use with English saddles. The thickness, dimensions, and shapes of western pads can interrupt the fit of your English saddle and interfere with communication with your horse. Look for pads specifically designed for English riding!
What makes Reinsman pads different from other brands?
The difference of Reinsman is defined by its own proprietary technologies such as the Tacky Too® non-slip material and APEX wool processing. Plus, their wide range of corrective options in addressing specific conformational defects is unique. Their relationship with Circle Y Saddles also gives Reinsman the benefit of complete saddle-fitting insight to integrate into pad designs.
How do I know what thickness of pad to choose?
The appropriate thickness will depend on your horse, saddle fitting, as well as the riding activities. A general rule: 1/2″ pads are great for showing and perfectly fitted saddles; 3/4″ pads are versatile for day-to-day training sessions that last less than an hour; 1″ pads give maximum protection for long rides or saddle problems; then lastly contour pads offer that specialized fit for any conformational differences.
The Science Behind Saddle Pad Technology
Understanding the physics and biomechanics of horseback riding can help you appreciate why quality saddle pads like those from Reinsman are worth the investment. As explained by equine biomechanics research, the average rider and saddle combination exerts approximately 250-300 pounds of concentrated pressure on a horse’s back.
A saddle pad that is best designed will perform several major functions in this weightbearing system:
- Disperses pressure over a broader area to lessen pounds per square inch at any specific point
- Absorbs shocks against vibration while moving
- Compensates for minor saddle-fitting discrepancies
- Wicks moisture that might cause skin irritation and friction damage
- Acts as a thermal regulator between saddle and horse’s back
Reinsman’s dedication to research and development has resulted in innovative ideas that involve each of these functions and have the potential to revolutionize pads that improve horse comfort and performance. When a rider is invested in and understands his or her equipment, he or she can greatly improve working conditions and life expectancy for the horse.
Important Warning
High-quality saddle pads cannot make up for very poor saddle-fitting. If your horse displays any signs of discomfort-be it back pain, change in behavior under saddle, asymmetric sweating patterns, or dry spots post-work-it is time to consult a professional saddle fitter. While corrective pads should optimize equine back health, they should never substitute proper saddle fit.
Conclusion: Investing in Quality for Horse and Rider
Buying the right Reinsman saddle pad ensures comfort for your horse, aids you as the rider in effectiveness, and guarantees the ultimate equestrian partnership. Your choices can be assessed from a horse and rider perspective by identifying the different options available to you and matching them to your specific needs.
Until now, Reinsman has developed saddle pads in the lead from the new Tacky Too® technology through the best APEX wool processing. In their extensive line, very light pads address basic riding needs and specialized conformational issues to the utmost advantage of any equine with the proper saddle support.
Good maintenance and proper care for a saddle pad always ensure durability, and this goes a long way in protecting your investment while still providing your horse with the protection it deserves. With these instructions in mind and paying attention to your horse’s preferences, you should have every opportunity for making good use of your Reinsman saddle pad in the years to come.
“A good saddle pad is like insurance for your horse’s back – you hope you never need it to fix problems, but you’re always glad it’s there doing its job silently day after day.” – Experienced Trail Rider
