Front Riser Pads: Improve Saddle Balance & Horse Comfort

A front riser pad is a simple and effective way to improve saddle balance when the front of the saddle sits too low. By lifting the saddle into a more neutral position, a front riser pad can help improve rider alignment, reduce pressure over the shoulders and withers, and support greater comfort for your horse.

Whether you are schooling at home, competing, or bringing a horse back into work, the right front riser pad can make a noticeable difference to comfort and performance. Our collection includes carefully selected options for everyday riding, fine-tuning saddle fit, and supporting horses whose shape may change over time.

Our range includes front riser pads that work seamlessly alongside a shimmable saddle pad, shim pad for saddles, or a sheepskin half pad.

What does a front riser pad do?

A front riser pad is designed to raise the front of the saddle and improve overall balance. This can be helpful when a saddle tips forward slightly, sits low at the pommel, or needs a small adjustment to maintain even contact.

Using a front riser pad can help to:

• Lift the saddle for improved wither clearance
• Create a more balanced and level seat for the rider
• Reduce pressure across the horse’s shoulders
• Support freer, more relaxed movement
• Provide a practical short-term or ongoing saddle fit solution

This can be particularly useful for horses developing topline, returning to work, changing shape through the season, or moving between saddles that need minor adjustment.

When should you use a front riser pad?

A front riser pad may be suitable when the saddle sits too low at the front or when extra lift is needed to restore balance. This can happen for several reasons, including changes in muscle, loss or gain of condition, saddle flocking settling unevenly, or using a saddle on more than one horse.

Many riders use a front riser pad as part of a flexible fitting approach, especially when combined with a shimmable pad or adjustable half pad system.

If you are unsure whether your horse needs a front riser pad, it is always best to seek advice from a qualified saddle fitter.

Front riser pad vs rear riser pad

A front riser pad lifts the front of the saddle, while a rear riser pad lifts the back. Choosing the correct option depends on where the imbalance sits. If the pommel is low and the saddle tips forward, a front riser pad is usually the more appropriate choice. If the cantle drops and the saddle tips backwards, a rear riser pad may be needed instead.

Using the wrong type of riser pad can create new pressure points, so it is important to assess saddle balance carefully before making adjustments.

Types of front riser pads available

Choosing the right front riser pad depends on your horse’s conformation, your saddle, and the level of adjustment required. Our collection includes a range of styles to suit different horses and riding needs.

Foam front riser pads

Foam front riser pads are ideal for subtle, lightweight adjustment. They provide gentle lift without adding unnecessary bulk and are a practical choice for everyday use. Riders often choose foam pads when a small correction is needed to improve saddle balance.

Gel front riser pads

A gel front riser pad offers lift along with excellent shock absorption. Gel designs mould to the horse’s back and can help distribute pressure more evenly under the saddle. They are a popular choice for horses in regular work, jumping, or higher impact disciplines.

Front riser pads with shim features

Some front riser pads include pockets for inserts, making them a useful option for riders who want greater adjustability. These designs work in a similar way to a shim pad for saddles and can be used to make more precise changes as your horse’s shape develops.

They work especially well with a sheepskin half pad or alongside a shimmable saddle pad for a more adaptable setup.

Sheepskin-lined front riser pads

For horses that benefit from extra softness, sheepskin-lined front riser pads offer natural cushioning, breathability, and comfort. These are ideal for sensitive horses or those prone to rubbing, while still helping to improve saddle position.

For a complete riding setup, pair your pad with our saddle cloths or numnahs.

Benefits of using a front riser pad

A well-chosen front riser pad can improve both saddle fit and horse comfort. Even a small adjustment at the front of the saddle can make a significant difference to how the saddle feels and performs.

Key benefits of a front riser pad include:

• Improved saddle balance and stability
• Better rider position and alignment
• Reduced strain on the shoulders and withers
• More comfort during flatwork, hacking, and jumping
• Useful support for horses changing shape or condition
• Versatility across a range of saddle types and disciplines

Many riders find that a front riser pad, used with a shim pad for saddles, gives them a more responsive and adaptable way to fine-tune fit throughout the year.

How to use a front riser pad correctly

To get the best results, a front riser pad should be positioned neatly beneath the front section of the saddle so that it provides lift without disrupting overall balance. The aim is to create a more level saddle, not to over-correct the fit.

When using a front riser pad:

• Check that the saddle sits level from front to back
• Ensure there is still enough clearance over the withers
• Avoid excessive layering that creates bulk
• Reassess fit after each adjustment
• Monitor your horse’s comfort, movement, and way of going

If you are using other products such as a shimmable saddle pad or sheepskin half pad, build changes gradually and keep the overall profile under the saddle as neat as possible.

Choosing the right front riser pad for your horse

The best front riser pad for your horse will depend on the amount of lift required, your saddle type, your riding discipline, and your horse’s individual shape. A lightweight foam style may be enough for a minor adjustment, while gel or shim-compatible designs can offer more support and flexibility.

When choosing a front riser pad, consider:

• The material, such as foam, gel, or sheepskin lining
• The thickness and level of lift needed
• Compatibility with your saddle and current pad setup
• Whether you need a temporary or adjustable solution
• Your horse’s comfort and sensitivity

For horses in dressage, show jumping, eventing, or general riding, the right front riser pad can help maintain comfort and consistency while supporting a better saddle fit.

Shop trusted equestrian brands

We stock front riser pads from leading equestrian brands known for quality, comfort, and performance. Each product in our collection has been selected to meet the needs of UK riders looking for reliable saddle fit solutions.

Browse popular options from Acavallo Gel Pads, known for innovative gel and sheepskin designs, LeMieux Saddle Pads, including the popular ProSorb shimmable range, and Thinline, a premium choice for advanced comfort and performance under saddle.

Frequently asked questions

What does a front riser pad do?

A front riser pad lifts the front of the saddle to improve balance, increase wither clearance, and reduce pressure over the shoulders.

When should I use a front riser pad?

You may use a front riser pad when the saddle sits low at the front, tips forward, or needs a small adjustment to create a more level and comfortable fit.

Can I use a front riser pad with a shimmable saddle pad?

Yes, many riders use a front riser pad with a shimmable saddle pad for a more adjustable fit. Care should be taken not to over-pad the saddle.

Is a gel front riser pad better than foam?

A gel front riser pad offers added shock absorption and pressure distribution, while foam is often lighter and better for subtle correction. The best choice depends on your horse and saddle setup.

Is a front riser pad a permanent solution?

A front riser pad can be used as a short-term or longer-term solution depending on your horse’s needs, but regular saddle fit checks are always recommended.

Will a sheepskin half pad do the same job?

A sheepskin half pad provides cushioning and comfort, but it will not always give the same targeted lift as a front riser pad unless it is specifically designed to do so.

Find the right front riser pad for your setup

A front riser pad is a simple but highly effective way to improve saddle balance, support horse comfort, and fine-tune your overall setup. Whether you need a lightweight everyday option, a gel front riser pad for extra support, or an adjustable design to use with a shim system, our collection includes solutions for a wide range of horses and saddles.

Shop the collection today and find the right front riser pad for a more balanced saddle, a more comfortable horse, and greater confidence every time you ride.