Bareback Pads for Horses: Types, Sizes and Safe Use
Updated October 22, 2026 by the Hilason Media Team.
Quick answer: A bareback pad is a padded cover with a girth that gives you close contact with the horse plus some cushion and grip. It is not a saddle: it has no tree, so pressure is less spread out. Pick by material, size and whether you want stirrups or handles. As of October 2026, Hilason bareback pads run $99.99 to $246.99.
Bareback pad types compared
Prices and sizes are from each listing as of October 22, 2026. Sizes are length x width.
| Type | Construction (per listing) | Size | Extras | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hilason Western 1680D Bareback Pad | 1680D fabric | 28" x 38" | Adjustable straps, accessory bag | $99.99 |
| Hilason English Pleasure Trail Bareback Pad | 1200D ripstop top, layered wool base | 28" x 40" | Four colors | $111.99 |
| Hilason Western Bareback Treeless Saddle Pad | Suede leather | See listing | $137.99 | |
| Hilason Natural Horsemanship Leather Bareback Pad | Suede top, pressed wool felt bottom | 24" x 33" | Adjustable stirrups, western billets, front handle | $149.99 |
| Hilason Western Suede Bareback Pad with Breast Collar and Girth | Suede top, high-density foam middle, fur backing | See listing | Adjustable breast collar and girth straps | $181.99 |
| Hilason Baretek Bareback Pad | Suede top, pressed wool felt bottom, molded foam pommel, cantle and knee rolls | 23" x 35" | Leather billet straps | $199.99 |
| Hilason Bareback Pad, Anti-Slip Base | Suede top, foam and pressed wool layers, anti-slip bottom | 22" x 36" | Carrying loop | $206.99 |
| Hilason Bareback Ride-On Pad | Microfiber top, cellular rubber and foam base, removable padded underside | See listing | No stirrups (see below) | $223.99 |
| Weaver Stacy Westfall Gel Bareback Pad | Ultrasuede top, gel insert, 5/8" felt filler, wool fleece bottom, cut back over the withers | 21" x 35" | Girth and webbing billets | $246.99 |
Other Hilason bareback pads sit in the same range; see all bareback pads.
Stirrups or no stirrups?
Some bareback pads come with stirrups, some do not. Without a tree, standing in stirrups concentrates your weight on a small area of the horse's back, and the pad can shift. One Hilason ride-on pad listing says stirrups cannot be attached for exactly this reason. If you use a pad with stirrups, keep your weight in your seat, not in the stirrups, and check that the pad stays centered.
How to choose a bareback pad
- Size to the horse and rider. The pad should sit behind the shoulders and stay off the loins. Compare listing dimensions to your horse.
- Wither clearance. Look for a shape that is cut back or shaped over the withers, and check that the pad does not press on the spine.
- Grip and girth. An anti-slip base and a well-adjusted girth help keep the pad in place. A pad with a breast collar adds front security on hills.
- Cushion. Foam, wool felt and gel layers add cushion. Thicker is not always better for feel.
- Care. Suede and ultrasuede tops are wiped or brushed clean; fabric pads are easier to wash. Keep the underside free of packed hair and dirt.
Safe use
- A bareback pad is best for shorter rides, cooling out, balance work and riders building an independent seat.
- Check the girth before mounting and again after a few minutes.
- After the ride, look for even sweat marks and no rubs or sore spots. Dry spots or soreness mean the pad or the length of ride needs a change.
- Wear a riding helmet; bareback riding gives you less to hold on to.
Who it's for / not for
For: riders who want close contact for light trail rides, arena work, balance practice and cooling out.
Not for:
- Long, hard rides or heavy riders on a horse with a sensitive back: a fitted saddle spreads weight better. Compare treeless, flex tree and tree saddles.
- Roping, speed events or anything that needs a horn or a secure frame.
- Use under a saddle: these are bareback pads, not saddle pads.
FAQ
What is a bareback pad?
A padded cover with a girth that you ride on instead of a saddle. It adds cushion and grip but has no tree.
Are bareback pads safe?
They can be, for short, easy rides with a well-fitted girth and a balanced rider. They are less secure than a saddle, so wear a helmet and avoid fast or rough work.
Is a bareback pad with stirrups a good idea?
Use stirrups only for balance, not to stand in. Without a tree, stirrup pressure is concentrated on a small area and the pad can slide.
What size bareback pad do I need?
Listed sizes vary by style, for example 24" x 33", 23" x 35" and 28" x 40" (length x width). Choose one that sits behind the shoulders, clears the withers and stays off the loins.
How do I clean a suede bareback pad?
Many Hilason listings say to wipe with a damp cloth or brush with a soft brush, then let it dry fully.
What is the difference between a bareback pad and a treeless saddle?
A treeless saddle has more structure: a seat, fenders, stirrups and rigging built in. A bareback pad is simpler and gives closer contact. See our treeless saddles.
Shop
- All Bareback Pads
- English Bareback Pads
- Western Bareback Pads
- Treeless Saddles
- Breast Collars
- Saddle Pads
Returns: accepted for fit or a manufacturing fault on unused items in original packaging, postmarked within 30 days of receipt, with a Return Authorization from us first. The buyer pays return shipping and a restocking fee may apply. See our refund policy.
