How Much Should a Pulled Wool Pad Weigh?

This has been a hot topic in the community lately and the answer is…it varies!

Three factors determine the weight of a pulled wool saddle pad.

1) Type of Wool Used

One of my favorite things to talk about is the characteristics of wool. At its most basic, we judge wool based on micron (average diameter of the fibers) and staple length (average length of fibers). Each breed has different characteristics, and every maker has different preferences. You will need more of a low micron, and shorter staple length wool such as Merino which averages around 20 micron and a staple length of 2 inches, than say a Jacob roving that is 25-30 micron and 2-3 staple length.

2) Differences in Construction

All PWPs are built in the same pull one, skip one style, meaning that there won’t be differences in the total number of loops between makers, but what is different is how those loops are pulled and how the wool is split. Some makers may split their wool into thirds or fourths, and pull up thick short loops, or longer skinnier loops. This has a great deal of influence in the feel and weight of the finished pad. There is not a wrong way, just preferences based on use and experience.

3) Dimensions of the Saddle Pad

Here’s the obvious answer! PWPs can be built to any length or width and that will make a huge difference in the final weight. I average 7-8lbs on a 32 × 32” that is 2.5” thick using Jacob and Merino. What’s the right thickness? That also varies based on preference, and type of wool used. Coarser wools such as Jacob and Corriedale, because of how plush they are, can be difficult to pull into perfect, small loops. Merino being finer is much easier to make into ‘perfect loops’ which tend to be tighter and smaller.

There isn’t a one size fits all when it comes to PWPs and if you have any questions, reach out to your local maker. The horse’s comfort is our highest priority.