Why Horse Owners Are Switching to Wool Half Pads—And Why You Should Too

Whether you’re schooling for hunter under saddle, showing in English pleasure, or perfecting your equitation pattern, chances are you’ve always relied on cotton or synthetic half pads - especially ones you can toss in the wash after a long ride. But here’s the truth: even though those pads are convenient, they’re not necessarily what’s best for your horse’s back.

That’s where 5 Star’s 100% Pure Wool Half Pad comes in.

Designed for the Horse. Built for the Ride.

Unlike synthetic or foam pads, wool naturally conforms to your horse’s back, providing custom support and pressure relief every time you ride. Our wool is not blended with synthetics or needled, it's pure, dense, and engineered to absorb shock, wick sweat, and distribute weight evenly.

For horses with broad shoulders, high withers, or muscle asymmetry, wool adapts to the contours of the back providing a custom fit without sacrificing close contact or comfort.

But What About Cleaning?

We get it. Wool has a reputation for being “hard to care for.” But with 5 Star, that’s just not true.

Our half pads are built to last and easy to maintain with the right routine:

1. Use the 5 Star Saddle Pad & Tack Cleaner, made specifically for natural wool.
2. It’s eco-friendly, pH balanced, and enzyme-powered to remove sweat, grime, and bacteria without damaging fibers.
3. For a quick touch-up, we include a FREE Dry Cleaning Sponge with every pad. It’s perfect for brushing off hair and buildup between deeper cleans.

With regular use of our cleaner, you won’t need to toss your pad in the washing machine. You’ll just have a fresh, breathable pad that holds its shape and performance.

Why Riders Are Making the Switch

 Natural Protection: Wool offers unmatched back support and temperature regulation.

1. Durability: Pure wool pads last for years with proper care.
2. Horse Comfort: Conforms to the horse, reduces pressure points, and prevents rubs or soreness.
3. Sustainable & Safe: Our cleaner is human-safe, environmentally friendly, and made for the materials you trust.
4. Handcrafted in the USA: Every pad is built by skilled American craftsmen using time-tested techniques and premium materials.

If your Horse deserves the best, and we know they do, it’s time to upgrade to a half pad that delivers true performance, not just convenience.