SMART™ Accessories

Correctly fitted saddle accessories are an essential to ensure optimum performance from your SMART™ saddle. Saddle accessories can be the difference between a SMART™ saddle fitting and working for a horse and rider combination or not; all our recommended accessories have been tried and tested so we know they perform well with SMART™ saddles.

Why We Recommend SMART Saddles’ Accessories 

When it comes to achieving the best performance for horse and rider, the saddle is only part of the equation. The accessories you use play an equally important role in comfort, fit, and long-term results. 

At SMART Saddles, we design and recommend accessories that work in harmony with our flexible SMART Saddles. Here’s why choosing the SMART Essentials range makes such a difference for your horse’s comfort and your riding experience. 

 

Pads and Shims  

Our SMART Shims and Dorsal Pads are specifically shaped to complement the contour of the SMART Saddle base panels. This ensures the horse receives support in the correct areas, without creating unwanted pressure elsewhere. 

 The materials we use are carefully chosen to mirror the structure of the base panel - think of it as adding an extra external layer rather than overfilling the panel itself. This means we can support the horses that need it without compromising performance for those that don’t, making quick and easy external adjustments as and when required. 

With our Velcro attachment system, pads can be positioned with precision and easily removed or adjusted as needed. This versatile system includes the option to layer shims for a perfect fit, providing a long-term, cost-effective solution as your horse’s shape changes through seasons, training, or rehabilitation. 

By contrast, many generic shim pads don’t have pockets in the right place, use materials that don’t provide true support, or even reduce gullet clearance - potentially creating pressure on the spine. Our simple system avoids these risks, ensuring both fit and freedom of movement. 

 

Streamlined Comfort 

Because SMART Saddles have no tree or rigid parts, we cannot recess the stirrup bar into the saddle. Some riders may therefore feel the bulk of standard stirrup leathers under the thigh, which can be uncomfortable and impair performance. 

Our recommend Bates Webbers are the ideal solution - reducing bulk, improving rider comfort, and allowing closer contact with the horse. 

 

Saddle Cloths: Small Details, Big Difference 

Our cotton saddle cloths are custom-designed for SMART Saddles, featuring: 

• Low-Profile Seams: Minimise bulk and reduce rubbing risks. 

• Upswept Back Profile: Keeps the cloth lifted off the wither, even on flat-backed horses. 

• D-Tabs with Velcro: Secure the cloth to the saddle’s D-rings, preventing slipping. 

• High-Quality Cotton Quilt: Does not interfere with the fit or balance of the saddle 

• Velcro Attachments for Pads: Keeps balance pads securely in place. 

• Individual Girth Strap Slots: Allows precise placement. 

Our SMART PRO cloths include additional features like Velcro along the top seam to keep the pad snugly in the gullet and lower knee D-tabs for extra stability - perfect for jump or GP/Event riders. 

 

Lightweight, Flexible Knee Blocks 

Like our saddles, our knee blocks are soft, flexible, and lightweight, covered in high-grade leather to match your saddle. Available in a range of styles to give you the right amount of support without restricting your position. 

 

Girths Matter

Many girths are designed to solve problems created by rigid, treed saddles - features that simply aren’t necessary for a flexible SMART Saddle. Instead, we focus on strong double elastic at both ends (or robust sternum elastic) to promote symmetry and avoid overtightening. 

Fit is crucial: 

• Short (dressage-style) girths should buckle as close to the bottom of the saddle flap as possible, keeping buckles away from the horse’s elbow and rib joints. 

• This also improves rider comfort by removing bulk under the leg, allowing better contact and easier adjustment while mounted. 

 

The results? 

Using the right accessories with your SMART Saddle isn’t just about matching brands - it’s about achieving the best possible fit, freedom, and comfort for both horse and rider. 

Our recommended accessories: 
✅ Designed and/or tested specifically for SMART Saddles 
✅ Made from complementary materials 
✅ Adjustable, versatile, and long-lasting 
✅ Built for both horse comfort and rider convenience 

The result? A happier horse, a better riding experience, and equipment that adapts with you over time.