Riders know their horses - and their tack. So when experienced riders make the decision to switch to VIP Equestrian, we listen.
When it comes to what goes under your saddle, riders are often spoilt for choice - but rarely given the facts on the product. We created VIP Saddle Pads to change that. No bulk, no gimmicks, no marketing fluff. Just real comfort, real science, and real results you can feel from the first ride. The very best slimline impact protection saddle pad on the market.
In this blog post, we’ve gathered real questions from our community, answered by real riders who use our VIP Saddle Pads for horses every day. We’ve also included their first-hand experiences*, how our impact protection pads compare to other riding aids and equestrian accessories, and why the science behind the difference isn’t just visible - it’s feelable too.
You’ll read their first-hand feedback on how VIP Saddle Pads perform compared to traditional gel or foam pads, how it’s changed their horse’s way of going, and why many of them now consider it as essential as a well-fitted saddle. We’ve also included the science behind our design, and how our raw material mimics a layer of skin and fat for comfort nature would approve of.
Comfort shouldn’t be a mystery, and your horse’s back deserves better than trial and error. If you are more comfortable, so is your horse. Harmony in the making!
*Please note that some testimonials have been cropped or edited for grammatical errors and overall clarity.
What made you want to try a VIP Saddle Pad in the first place?
“I had wanted one for a while and on Black Friday I finally caved in! My horse wasn’t ever awfully behaved or uncomfortable but I would like to reduce any impact possible. I loved it right away. My horse is so relaxed and feels so much more fluid. It is a lifesaver, I used to get awful back pain and now that has disappeared! I won’t ride without it now and it is one of my favourite pieces of kit!”
- Daisy H.
The VIP Saddle Pad uses VTEQ™ technology, a viscoelastic material tested to withstand up to 3 tonnes of pressure. It absorbs shock without compressing into a pancake mid-ride (a problem with many foams and gels), and it creates a close-contact feel without friction or lift.
Does the VIP Saddle Pad really make a difference to both you and your horse’s experience?
“I learnt about VIP Equestrian a few years ago but didn’t have a horse to get one for. I bought quite a sensitive horse back in November and we've had a few teething troubles! I was originally waiting for my birthday to get my pad but I decided to take the plunge and just buy one, as a lot of the reviews and research I was doing all pointed to it being exactly what we needed. After being quite apprehensive to try it on Ted, due to the cost and the possibility of it not working for us, I was amazed with the results. It is genuinely like riding a completely different horse! The change was immediate! Since getting my VIP Saddle Pad 3 weeks ago, we have come on leaps and bounds! I now have a happy and more confident forward going horse, who's up through his back and striding out, and I feel way more secure and with him in the saddle! I would highly recommend!”
- Sam P.
Horses move best when they’re not bracing. The VIP Saddle Pad mimics a layer of skin and fat - meaning it moves with the horse, not against them. It doesn't bounce or shift, which supports consistent muscle use and freedom through the back.
Is a VIP Saddle Pad worth the investment?
“I purchased a VIP Saddle Pad after my horse was found to have kissing spine. Whilst the kissing spine was only mild, I wanted to do everything that I could to ensure that my horse’s back / spine health was properly cared for. Since riding in the VIP, my horse no longer tenses up when being mounted and she has been able to lift her back correctly when being worked - this has been commented on by my instructors. Using the VIP has also improved my approach to riding my horse as I am able to mentally relax knowing that her back is protected. I can’t imagine riding without the VIP now and even though it may seem quite expensive, you are not only paying for the VIP itself but the extensive research that has gone into producing it. Also, the 14 day money back guarantee gives you peace of mind that you are able to get a full refund in the (very unlikely!) event that you want to return it. Communication was great and the VIP arrived very quickly. I highly recommend this product for all horses, even those who do not appear to have any back issues, in order to give them the support and protection needed to do everything asked of them.”
- Jessica L.
Unlike cheaper alternatives, the VIP doesn’t bottom out or degrade under repeated use. It’s hypoallergenic, bacteriostatic, and designed to perform under pressure - literally. The material structure rebounds instantly after impact, keeping your horse supported ride after ride.
Is it true it helps rider and rider position too?
“I had been considering purchasing a VIP pad for a little while and from reading recent reviews I decided to give it a whirl. My reason for choosing this pad is more for me than the horse although of course prevention is better than cure. I suffer with lower back and sometimes hip pain as a result of a serious accident a few years ago. Riding quite a big moving horse doesn’t help at times and I suffer that evening and next day with pain. Day 1 of using the VIP I placed directly onto the horse, and whilst I didn’t notice any difference in my horse's performance I certainly noticed the difference in myself, directly after riding and that evening. I didn’t suffer any lower back pain at all. Day 2 of using VIP I placed on top of my normal saddle pad which seemed to work better for my horse and again certainly for me zero discomfort or pain after riding or in the evening or following day. A huge result for me and I would highly recommend it to those that do suffer with lower back pain and discomfort.”
- Elaine S.
Keeping your centre of gravity low and reducing bounce improves rider stability. Because the VIP adds no significant height or bulk, it allows riders to sit closer - which improves balance and timing for both horse and rider.
Is a VIP Saddle Pad worth the switch?
“I finally purchased a VIP pad after borrowing one from various friends! I have always used a Gel-eze pad for my horse recommended by my saddler. (This was a few years ago.) My horse can be quite sensitive and we had some very hairy moments where I ended up on the floor quite a few times in our early days together! So I’m very conscious of protecting his back! Since swapping to The VIP pad my horse has been brilliant. He feels very happy and relaxed every time I’ve ridden him in it. Even over the winter when he can be a bit cold and put his back up, he’s been great! Really do recommend! As well as competing and schooling we also enjoy lots of hacking and horsey holidays. I’d never be without my VIP pad now!”
- Ruth K.
So why are riders switching and staying with our VIP Saddle Pad? When riders put their horse’s comfort first, everything improves - softness, balance, connection, and confidence. That’s what we’ve heard time and time again from those who’ve made the switch to VIP Equestrian.
The difference isn’t always loud, and that’s the point. It’s in the moments when your horse offers more because nothing is pinching, shifting, or getting in the way.
And it’s not just a feeling - it’s a fact. VIP Saddle Pads are made with VTEQ™, a material tested under extreme pressure, designed to mimic natural cushioning, and trusted by riders who expect the same comfort for their horse as they do for themselves.
So if you’re tired of compromising on connection, on saddle fit, on your horse’s comfort - maybe it’s time to try something different. Something designed with partnership in mind. Because when your horse moves better, you ride better. And when you both feel comfortable, harmony happens naturally.