SXC High Rise Silicone saddle pad: ‘stayed in place well’ 6/10
It’s a good price and a nice numnah overall. I can see what they are trying to achieve, but it’s not as hard wearing as I’d like.
Welcome to our independent group test of jumping numnahs and general purpose numnahs. All of the numnahs in this group test have been put through their paces by professional event rider Sam Jennings and her team. Find out what they thought below.
Official description
The SXC High Rise Silicone saddle pad features a breathable lining to draw away moisture and a high-rise cut to allow freedom around the withers. This numnah incorporates a silicone print to provide ultimate grip, which keeps the saddle in place and removes the need for extra bulky straps.
First impressions
It doesn’t look as smart as some others in the test, but that’s because it has anti-slip features. It hasn’t got any straps at the top, which I quite liked as I usually cut them off anyway.
Overview of performance
It’s quilted but doesn’t really hold its own shape. It does have a shape to the wither, but overall I found it a bit flimsy. It hasn’t worn or washed very well and some of the stitching is starting to go. There is quite a lot of natural padding, so I can see why it is used for cross-country, and it stayed in place well when in use. I like the fact that it has anti-slip between the saddle and numnah, rather than the numnah and horse.
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Sam’s likes and dislikes
I’m not keen on the shape as I prefer squarer-shaped numnahs, but it does have anti-slip features and I like the cushioning effect.
Verdict
It’s a good price and a nice numnah overall. I can see what they are trying to achieve, but it’s not as hard wearing as I’d like.
