Product FAQs

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Impact Gel pads have two distinct benefits that out-perform our competitors. Impact Gel pads are unsurpassed in relieving pressure points caused by a poor fitting saddle – a major cause of white spots. We are also unequaled in dissipating energy that is normally transferred onto the horse. The benefit from this is the animal stays fresher longer and performs better.

Simply stated, no. Impact Gel is not a liquid and does not move within the pad. While we speak of it being a gel, it starts out in a liquid form, then it is poured into a sealed polyurethane bladder. It sets into a semi-solid state within minutes. If the pad were to be punctured or cut, nothing would leak from the pad. The gel bladder is glued into position between the layers and then reinforced with stitching to eliminate movement.

Our felt and fleece materials in our saddle pads are non-slip.  Currently, Impact Gel makes a contour pad with an anti-slip material on the bottom called tacky tack. This is a special order item and costs a bit more because of the difficulty in the sewing process. Call the office to order a saddle pad with tacky tack.

Our XT Lite Gel bladder has a system of perforations throughout the gel insert, creating a lighter, more breathable and cooler pad. XT Lite Gel protects your horse under the most extreme conditions, allowing extended riding.

Trick riders use our classic contour saddle pads with tacky tack on the underside.

We can create custom patches or wear leathers with laser designs. Also, custom materials (wear leathers, fringes, etc.) can be used in the creation of the pad if they are sent to us. Additional may apply for customization. Find out more about custom pads by calling our office.

First, turn the pad over and take a stiff brush or curry comb over the pad to loosen the dirt and hair. It is a personal preference as to whether an equine cleaning solution is used. If using a cleaning solution, apply it at this time and work it into the pad with a brush. Second, take a pressure washer or regular garden hose on a high setting (for more water pressure) and wash from the center line out, moving the dirt and hair outward. It is important if an equine cleaning solution is used that all of the solution is rinsed away. Then, allow the pad to air dry. If cleaning is an issue, simply put a light blanket under the pad in order to keep it clean. We recommend thorough cleaning at least twice a month, but this may depend on how often you ride. Proper cleaning is important as it extends the life of the pad.

Our Horse Trax pair average two shoeings. This depends upon the length of time you go between changing shoes and what type of surface your horse is running on. We have customers (i.e. mounted police, endurance riders, Amish carriages) using pads worn on horses that are constantly on hard rock-asphalt surfaces. On average, that type of riding is only one pair per shoeing. Other users have reported that they can use the same pair for three shoeings. The most important thing is to change them as soon as you see any compromise in the integrity of the pad. We also do not recommend using any packing material under the pad, which limits the ability for our product to do its job and hinders the ability of the hoof to breathe effectively.

We came out with our leg care line briefly and have since sold out. We are now working with several manufacturers on perfecting a new design.

Impact Gel pads are composed of a proprietary gel technology encased in a 70/30 wool blend, which allow our pads to sweat evenly without creating dry spots. Our unique wool blend wicks moisture and is incredibly durable. Heavy duty wear leathers are provided by S.B. Foot Tanning who uses fresh-prepared hides called “Wet Blues.” Properly tanned leather can maintain its properties in excess of 50 years.

The discipline and purpose largely determines the thickness you need. As a general rule, our 3/4" pad is the most universal and will suit most riders perfectly. If you ride for extended periods or if excess pressure is applied from roping or steer wrestling, for example, you will generally need a thicker 1" pad. For saddles that are custom fit or contest horses where weight and time are of concern, our 1/2" pad or XT pads are very popular.

Measure the length of the saddle from front to back and add 3 to 4 inches for correct saddle fit. You should have at least a 1 to 1.5 inch clearance in both the front and back of the saddle for proper fit.

This is common and we have several solutions. Impact Gel offers a build-up pad, perfect for horses with a prominent wither or for geriatric horses with a diminishing top line. Horses age and their needs will change as their body shapes do!

We also offer a Bridge Pad as an accessory to fill the void along the top line that causes the saddle to “bridge” over the hips and shoulders. It’s a great solution for horses that are more challenging to fit.

Thin is in! Ride in a thinner pad to best utilize saddle fit. The tree of the saddle will “seat” in the gel, creating better contact between the saddle tree and your horse’s back to prevent preventing listing and rolling.

Our Set Back pad offers a built up area behind the wither to elevate the saddle tree off the scapula and provide better range of motion for horses more squarely made.

Whether you order felt or fleece is purely a matter of personal preference. Although the felt is generally much easier to clean, fleece does provide more grip (friction) for riders competing in contest classes, steer wrestling and roping.

Call us at our office.  We can work with you to find the perfect fitting saddle pad for your horse.