Saddle cloth

Applicant: Dome Belgique
Inventor: Anne-Laure Cadji
Patent number: EP4464654A1
Publication date: 2024-11-20

The invention relates to a saddle pad for equestrian use comprising at least two parts: an upper part and a lining. These two parts are removable. The upper part comprises an outer layer of anti-hair fabric with a cushioning layer, and the lining comprises a moisture-absorbing textile. Because the lining absorbs perspiration, it can be machine washed at a higher frequency than the upper, which tends to be thicker, bulkier and less prone to soiling. This innovative design also makes maintenance easier, as the lining can be washed separately.

The present invention relates to the field of equestrianism and more particularly to saddle pads, covers and rump covers. Equestrianism involves the use of a saddle, under which a saddle pad is typically used to hold the saddle in place on the animal and to protect the animal's back. The saddlecloth traditionally consists of a thick layer (e.g. between 1mm and 1cm) of cushioning material. This layer is covered with a fine fabric which provides the aesthetic appearance of the pad, often with quilted patterns sewn to attach the fabric to the padding layer. A saddle cloth is generally made from breathable, absorbent and soft materials to protect the horse's back from friction and moisture. Because it is in regular contact with the animal, the saddlecloth becomes soiled by sweat, dust and hair.

During exercise, the animal produces a lot of heat and sweats to regulate its body temperature. The saddle cloth helps to absorb the sweat. It also helps to distribute the pressure of the saddle on the animal's back, preventing friction that could be harmful to the animal.

When horses shed their hair, especially during their seasonal moulting, the accumulation of horsehair on the saddle pads is a common problem for riders. In fact, hair tends to accumulate on the saddle pad, especially when sweating, which can cause discomfort for the horse when ridden and make cleaning the pad more difficult. 

The hair stuck to the saddle pad must be removed with a brush before washing. However, this brushing step is often time-consuming, tedious, and ineffective; hair can persist until washing and clog the washing machine. Moreover, a pad that is only partially free of hair requires a longer washing cycle (pre-wash, with greater water consumption).

Current solutions to this problem often involve complicated cleaning methods or the use of potentially harmful chemical products. However, regular maintenance of the saddle pad helps to maintain the longevity of the equipment, the health of the rider's skin and his comfort.

The applicant proposes a solution to improve the design of a saddle pad to make it easier to maintain.

The invention is thus a two-layer removable equestrian saddle pad. The lining, which is the lower layer intended to absorb sweat and preferably not to retain hair, can be easily freed from these hairs and washed more frequently than the upper part. Also, because the lining is thinner than the top layer, it dries faster than a traditional saddle pad. This is particularly useful as the top layer also has an anti-hair surface and is much less likely to become soiled.

• Improved hygiene with removable liners that can be washed frequently.
• Anti-hair properties that reduce hair build-up and make cleaning easier.
• Improved moisture absorption and faster drying times due to hydrophilic fabric used in the lining.
• Non-slip features that prevent movement during use, improving comfort for the horse.
• Versatile attachment mechanisms that allow easy replacement of worn parts.