Gel Half Pads: When Extra Grip and Shock Absorption Help (and When They Don’t)

Gel Half Pads: When Extra Grip and Shock Absorption Help (and When They Don’t) main image Gel Half Pads: When Extra Grip and Shock Absorption Help (and When They Don’t) image
Gel half pads can add grip, shock absorption, and comfort for Australian riders, especially in jumping or high-impact work. Learn when gel pads improve saddle stability and protect sensitive backs, and when extra bulk may not be the right solution.

Gel Half Pads: When Extra Grip and Shock Absorption Help (and When They Don’t)

Gel saddle pads are one of those products riders either swear by or avoid entirely. Some horses go better with the extra cushioning and stability, others don’t notice a difference—or even prefer a simpler set-up. So, when is a gel half pad genuinely useful, and when might it just add unnecessary bulk?

The purpose of gel in a half pad

Unlike wool or memory foam, gel is elastic. It compresses under pressure, spreads weight outward, and then rebounds. This makes it especially effective at:

  • Absorbing sharp impacts – useful in jumping, fast transitions, or trail riding on uneven ground.
  • Reducing slip – the tacky surface stabilises saddles that might move on rounder backs or during big movement.
  • Protecting sensitive backs – horses with thin skin or reactive muscles often appreciate the “buffer” feel.

With hundreds of micro-ventilation holes, modern gel pads also breathe better than earlier solid designs, making them suitable for Australian summers.

When a gel pad makes sense

You’ll notice the benefit most when:

• Your saddle tends to shift slightly, despite a reasonable fit.
• You ride disciplines with high-impact forces—jumping grids, eventing, long gallops.
• Your horse is very sensitive through the back and softens quicker with extra cushioning.
• You want shock absorption without the bulk of thick fleece or foam.

In these cases, the right gel pad can shorten warm-up time and leave your horse freer in the back. Some riders also find their own comfort improves—less “jarring” in lower back and hips.

When gel might not help

If your saddle is clearly the wrong width or rocks significantly, gel won’t fix it—it can even make pressure points worse. Horses prone to overheating may also prefer sheepskin or breathable foam in very hot conditions, though the latest ventilated designs have improved this. And some horses simply don’t like the feel: watch for tail swishing, tension, or refusal to stretch once a pad is added.

Choosing between plain gel and gel + wool

At Delzani we offer two performance versions designed for Australian riders:

• Lightweight Gel Anti-Slip Pad – best if you want close contact, minimal bulk, and simple stabilisation.
• Gel + Merino Wool Half Pad – adds natural moisture control and softness, making it ideal for sensitive horses or long schooling sessions in warm climates.

Set-up tips for safety and comfort

Always position gel pads between the saddle and numnah (not directly on the horse’s coat) to avoid gripping hairs and causing irritation. Make sure the pad is centred, with even clearance along the spine. After riding, check for even sweat patterns and no pinching at the withers or loin. Regularly rinse the pad to remove grit—gel wipes clean with mild soap and air dries quickly.

Bottom line: gel pads are not a replacement for proper saddle fit, but they can add stability and comfort where needed. Think of them as a fine-tuning tool—ideal for high-impact work, sensitive backs, or when you need that little extra security in the saddle.

Explore the full Delzani half pad range and find the set-up that keeps both you and your horse more comfortable, ride after ride.



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