A numnah is a saddle pad cut to the shape of the saddle, worn between the saddle and the horse’s back. Unlike a square saddle cloth, a numnah follows the contour of the saddle panels, providing a closer, more anatomically considered fit. The term is widely used in British and Irish equestrian circles and remains the standard word for this type of pad in the UK.
What a Numnah Does
The primary purpose of a numnah is to absorb sweat, reduce friction, and provide a modest layer of cushioning between the saddle and the horse’s back. A well-fitted saddle should not require a thick numnah to compensate for poor fit — the pad is a supplement to a correctly fitting saddle, not a solution to a badly fitting one.
Numnahs also protect the underside of the saddle from sweat and dirt, extending the life of the leather and stitching. For horses sensitive to girth friction, a numnah that extends slightly beyond the saddle flap can reduce rubbing around the girth straps and billets.
Numnah vs Saddle Pad vs Saddle Cloth
These three terms are often used interchangeably, but there are distinctions. A numnah is saddle-shaped — it mirrors the outline of the panels. A saddle pad is typically a more general term that includes square and shaped varieties and is widely used in North American riding. A saddle cloth or numnahs in competition contexts is usually a square or rectangular cloth, often bearing competition numbers.
In British yards, asking for a numnah will get you the shaped version. Asking for a saddle cloth will more likely produce something flatter and squarer. The terminology matters when buying — always check the shape before purchasing.
Materials and Construction
Numnahs are available in a wide range of materials, each with different properties. Sheepskin numnahs — either real or synthetic — are highly regarded for horses with back sensitivity, as sheepskin wicks moisture and distributes pressure well. Quilted cotton is the most common everyday option: affordable, washable, and suitable for most horses in regular work.
Memory foam and gel-infused numnahs are available for horses with specific back issues, though these should only be used on the advice of a saddle fitter or vet. A thick, rigid pad can actually raise the saddle and alter the tree’s contact with the back, sometimes causing more harm than good.
Look for numnahs with wither clearance built into the design — a deep gullet channel and raised wither profile prevent the pad from pressing down on the spine and withers, which can cause significant discomfort and eventual damage.
Fitting a Numnah Correctly
The numnah should sit slightly proud of the saddle on all sides — approximately 1–2 cm of padding visible around the pommel, cantle, and panels. Before tightening the girth, always pull the numnah up into the gullet channel. If the pad is dragged flat against the withers by girthing up without doing this, it creates downward pressure on the spine with every stride.
Numnah loops attach to the saddle’s girth straps to hold the pad in place. Check these regularly — worn loops allow the pad to slip back during work, which is uncomfortable for the horse and can create uneven contact from the saddle.
When to Replace a Numnah
A numnah that has lost its loft, compressed flat, or developed hard spots from repeated washing should be replaced. Compressed padding provides minimal benefit and can actually create pressure points. As a general rule, heavily used numnahs should be assessed every six to twelve months and replaced when they no longer spring back after compression.
For horses in intensive work or with known back issues, it’s worth consulting a saddle fitter when choosing a numnah. What works for a horse in light hacking will not necessarily suit a horse competing at a higher level with significant muscle development and a harder-working back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a numnah if my saddle fits well?
A correctly fitted saddle technically works without one, but most riders use a numnah for hygiene reasons — it catches sweat and protects the saddle leather. Even on a well-fitting saddle, a thin numnah makes post-ride cleaning easier and reduces wear on the saddle lining. The key is to choose a thin, shaped pad that does not interfere with the saddle’s fit.
Can a thick numnah fix a poorly fitting saddle?
No. A saddle that pinches, bridges, or sits unevenly will continue to cause discomfort regardless of how much padding is added. In many cases, stacking pads actually worsens the fit by changing the tree’s angle relative to the horse’s back. If your saddle requires significant extra padding to be comfortable for your horse, it is time for a saddle fitting assessment.
How often should a numnah be washed?
After every ride is ideal, particularly in warm weather when sweat buildup is highest. At minimum, wash after every two to three rides. Dried sweat salts and bacterial build-up in an unwashed numnah can cause skin irritation, especially around the girth area. Most quilted cotton numnahs are machine washable on a gentle cycle; sheepskin versions typically require hand washing or specialist cleaning.