What is not a purpose of the saddle blanket or pad?

The purpose of a saddle blanket or pad encompasses several important functions that directly relate to the comfort and health of the horse as well as the efficiency of the riding experience. While cushioning is vital as it helps to distribute the weight of the rider evenly across the horse's back, preventing pressure points and soreness, this is not the only role these pads play. Protecting the horse’s back is also essential; a well-fitted saddle pad serves as a barrier that can absorb shock and prevent chafing from the saddle, thus safeguarding the horse's skin and musculature.

Additionally, saddle pads are designed to absorb sweat and moisture, contributing to the overall comfort of the horse during physical activity. This is important because excessive sweat accumulation can lead to discomfort and skin irritation.

While saddle blankets or pads can indeed feature decorative elements that enhance the aesthetic quality of the tack, this is not one of their primary purposes. Rather, decoration is an ancillary benefit; it does not serve a functional role in terms of the horse's comfort or health. Therefore, identifying decoration as a non-essential function helps clarify the primary intentions behind the design and use of saddle blankets and pads.