Quick navigation: Blanket Thickness • Colors • Pad Size • Where Pads Are Made • No-Curl Benefits

Choosing the Perfect Horse Saddle Blanket: Thickness, Color, Size & No-Curl Benefits

When riders visit Mayatex.com, the same key questions come up: What thickness should I buy, which colors look best, what size pad fits under my blanket, where are the best pads made, and why does “no-curl” matter? Here’s your clear, rider-focused guide.

1) What thickness of Horse Saddle Blanket do I need?

The right blanket thickness depends on saddle fit, your horse’s back, and your discipline. Think of the blanket as comfort and moisture management—not a fix for a poor saddle fit.

• Lightweight (½″–¾″): Great with a well-fitted saddle for arena work, reining, or daily exercise—minimal bulk, quick dry.
• Medium/Heavy (¾″–1″): Most popular for ranch, roping, and trail—adds shock absorption and longer-ride comfort. Commonly layered over a felt or foam pad.
• Extra Thick (>1″): Helpful for horses with prominent withers or a slightly wide saddle that needs a touch more fill.

Pro tip: Fit the saddle first; then fine-tune with blanket + liner. Explore Mayatex Saddle Blankets.

2) What colors should I choose for my horse saddle blanket?

Color is presentation and tradition. Mayatex designs are hand-woven in authentic Western patterns with rich, durable dyes. While not an exact science - here are some recommendations for choosing the right colors for shows, riding events and rodeos:

• Bay/Chestnut: Turquoise, navy, tan, rust.
• Gray/White: Black, red, royal blue for strong contrast.
• Black: Bright or metallic accents like turquoise, white, silver.
• Palomino/Buckskin: Brown, copper, burgundy to enhance warmth.

Style note: Coordinate with your headstall, breast collar, and shirt for a polished, arena-ready look. Browse patterns & colors.

3) What size saddle pad do I need to fit under my saddle blanket?

Most riders layer a pad under a show blanket for function and finish. Aim for the pad to extend 1–2″ beyond the saddle on all sides.

• Standard Pads: ~30″×30″ or 32″×32″ for compact saddles/horses.
• Full-Size/Roping Pads: 34″×36″ or 36″×34″ for full-bar Western saddles.
• Show Blankets: Mayatex 40″×34″ drapes cleanly over contoured or straight pads for a crisp silhouette.

See popular blanket sizes: 40×34 • 38×34 • 36×34

4) Where are the best horse saddle pads made?

Quality comes from material + craftsmanship. Mayatex has long used premium New Zealand wool for its durability, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties—loom-woven to blend Aztec Navajo designs with modern performance. These materials are hand loom woven in India to the highest standards found in the world for wool blankets.

Shop the craft that riders trust: Mayatex Saddle Blankets.

5) Why do I need a no-curl saddle blanket for my horse?

A blanket that curls or bunches can create hot spots and pressure points. Our wool blankets feature no-curl construction stays flat, maintaining even contact and comfort during long rides, roping runs, and arena work.

• Stays Flat: Tightly woven wool and reinforced edges resist rolling.
• Consistent Pressure: Helps prevent sore backs and uneven sweat patterns.
• Clean Look: Keeps your presentation sharp under the saddle.