Professional's Choice
Air Ride SMX All Around Pad
Western Saddle Fittings/Pads
Manufacturer: Professional's Choice
Model: Air Ride SMX All Around Pad
Category: Western Saddle Fittings/Pads
Purchase: Purchased from an ebay store for $89. I needed a pad that wasn't thick but provided good protection.
Likes: Provides adequate protection from pressure points. The outer woven material does not pick up dirt, shavings, etc. The contour fit helps keep the pad in place, and helps provide wither relief.
Dislikes: The black fleece underside is very hard to keep clean. It becomes packed with hair and sweat very easily, and due to holding sweat, can get quite STINKY. When washed, it takes forever to get this thing to dry. I have found that currying it softly and then vacuuming it with the horse vacuum works best.
Quality: Great. Stitching is still holding, materials are of great (strong) quality, and it still looks new! I bought the brown color so you can't really tell if it's dirty.
Summary: If you are expecting miracles from a saddle pad, look elsewhere. I was impressed when I first got it because it appeared to eliminate pressure dry spots (I have battled with saddle fit, and just got a new custom saddle at the same time). After 6 months, I noticed the dry spots are back. Don't know if this is because of fit changes or a breakdown of the pad.
It is a good everyday pad, but the all around version is only good for moderate riding. If you need a lot of protection (reining, roping, racing, etc), buy a different version. This one is made for us rail and pleasure riders!
Rating: 4
Author: Candice
Date: 2005-12-15
Usefulness Rating: 4.3 out of 5.
20 reader(s) voted.
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