equine_cloakroom_user As equestrians, we understand the importance of a well-coordinated outfit, from our riding boots to our helmet.
The equine world in our view is considered the epitome of style and is a classic statement of affluence. But have you considered the impact of your saddle pad colour on your horse and how it can complete your whole look?
The colour of your saddle pad can make a significant difference in how your horse looks, therefore ultimately how your equestrian style is portrayed.
We are here to help explain and explore the best colour saddle pad for your horse, taking into consideration the different horse coat colours and riding disciplines. Our goal is to provide insights and tips on selecting the perfect saddle pad colour for your horse, helping you and your horse to always look your best.
Best Colours for Saddle Pads
The best colour saddle pad for your horse can depend on their coat colour. Here are our suggestions for the most complimentary colours based on different horse coat colours:
- Grey Horses: For grey horses, white, black, or navy saddle pads can work well. Avoid light-coloured saddle pads that may clash with the horse’s coat colour.
- Bay Horses: Bay horses look great in saddle pads that are navy, burgundy, or brown. These colours complement the rich brown colour of their coat.
- Chestnut Horses: Chestnut horses look stunning in saddle pads that are navy, green, or brown. These colours bring out the warm, reddish tones in their coat.
- Black Horses: Black horses look great in white or black saddle pads. These colours create a bold, striking contrast with their dark coat.
- White Horses: White horses look best in darker-coloured saddle pads, such as navy or burgundy. These colours create a nice contrast with their white coat.
When selecting a saddle pad colour, it is always wise to coordinate with the horse’s coat colour as your starting point. Choosing a saddle pad colour that matches or complements the coat colour can enhance the horse’s appearance and your combined outfit.
When in doubt, neutral colours such as black, white, and navy are always a safe choice. They work well with most horse coat colours and are versatile in many equestrian disciplines.
There is no definitive right colour saddle pad for your horse; it is ultimately a personal choice. Like with fashion it is an expression of your unique style, try different colours and find out what enhances you and your horse’s style.
Saddle Pad Colors for Dressage
For dressage competitions, there are specific rules and guidelines regarding saddle pad colours. The most universally allowed colour for dressage saddle pads is white, however black and navy can often also be considered.
The saddle pads must be plain in colour, with no additional designs or logos when competing in dressage competitions. The saddle pad must also be a classic rectangular dressage pad in shape and fit correctly under the saddle.
It is wise to follow these rules and guidelines when selecting your saddle pad for dressage to avoid any penalties or disqualifications. A white saddle pad is the most traditional and classic option for dressage competitions. However, black and navy saddle pads are sometimes allowed and can provide a modern alternative look.
It is always best to check your specific dressage competition rules and guidelines to see if there are any additional elements to consider when making the correct saddle pad colour selection to compete in.
Most Popular and On-Trend Saddle Pad Colors
Saddle pad colours can change from season to season like with fashion trends the most popular saddle pad colours can be a staple classic or a quickly passing fad.
For this year we have found these are the most on-trend saddle pad colours:
- Burgundy: Burgundy is a deep, rich colour that adds a touch of elegance to any horse outfit. It’s a popular colour this year because of its versatility – it matches well with most horse coat colours and is a great alternative to traditional black or navy.
- Sage Green: Sage green is a soft, muted green colour that has become increasingly popular in the equestrian world. This colour is on-trend because it’s a subtle and sophisticated colour that adds a touch of personality to any outfit.
- Mustard Yellow: Mustard yellow is a bold and vibrant colour that has become increasingly popular in the equestrian world. This colour is on-trend because it’s a unique and eye-catching colour that stands out in the ring.
- Navy and Gold: Navy and gold is a classic colour combination that has become popular again in recent years. This colour combination is on-trend because it’s a timeless and elegant look that can be dressed up or down.
Colour theory helps when coordinating these on-trend saddle pad colours with horse coat colours. If you can remember back to Art in school colours that are opposite each other on the colour wheel, such as burgundy and green, complement each other well. Colours that are next to each other on the colour wheel, such as navy and gold, create a harmonious and cohesive look.
Classic Heritage-Inspired Saddle Pad Colours
For those who prefer a more traditional and heritage approach, some classic saddle pad colours give a more sophisticated and timeless appeal.
Here are some of the most popular traditional saddle pad colours:
- White: White is the most traditional and classic colour for saddle pads. It’s commonly used in dressage competitions and is a timeless look that can never go wrong.
- Black: Black is another classic colour for saddle pads. It’s a versatile colour that matches well with most horse coat colours and is perfect for any equestrian discipline.
- Navy: Navy is a deep and sophisticated colour that has been used in equestrian fashion for many years. It’s a popular colour for both casual and competitive riding and is a classic look that never goes out of fashion.
- Hunter Green: Hunter green is a classic colour that has been popular in the equestrian world for many years. It’s a versatile colour that matches well with most horse coat colours and is perfect for a timeless and traditional look.
These traditional saddle pad colours have remained favoured over the years because of their versatility and timelessness. They’re classic colours that never go out of style, and they match well with most equestrian outfits.
While there may be some new and trendy saddle pad colours on the market, it’s always good to have these classic colours in your equestrian wardrobe for a timeless and sophisticated style.
Fashion and functionality are at the core of equestrian style and selecting the right saddle pad colour for your horse is a great place to start in your horse’s wardrobe.
The top tips when selecting the best saddle pad colour are; colour theory, complimenting your horse’s coat colour, and finally the most appropriate colour for your riding discipline.
Whether you’re a trendsetter or a heritage hunter it is important to remember to enjoy the process of finding the best saddle pad colours for your horse. Try to keep to your personal expression of equestrian style and not just follow the crowd.
