More sizes – finer gradation
Four seat sizes for more precise rider fit. The sizes correspond to those of the dressage version.
Slim panels for short-backed horses
Subtle, narrower contact surface – visually clean and ideal for compact horse backs.
Flat seat for greater freedom of movement
Allows natural hip movement and independent balance.
Subtle knee support with guidance
Soft padding with light support – without restriction, even with shorter stirrups.
Compact design & shorter flap
Slim, reduced construction – perfectly suited for smaller horses.
PADDLE® system advantages
The ability to use stirrups, an adjustable gullet plate, and a grippy suede surface for comfort, adaptability, and close contact with the horse.
More sizes – finer gradation
Four seat sizes for more precise rider fit. The sizes correspond to those of the dressage version.
Slim panels for short-backed horses
Subtle, narrower contact surface – visually clean and ideal for compact horse backs.
Flat seat for greater freedom of movement
Allows natural hip movement and independent balance.
Subtle knee support with guidance
Soft padding with light support – without restriction, even with shorter stirrups.
Compact design & shorter flap
Slim, reduced construction – perfectly suited for smaller horses.
PADDLE® system advantages
The ability to use stirrups, an adjustable gullet plate, and a grippy suede surface for comfort, adaptability, and close contact with the horse.
PADDLE® Slim & Short
Our new PADDLE® Slim & Short — more sizes, for a freer seating feeling and particularly interesting for smaller or shorter horses.
The Slim & Short is available in four sizes, with finer gradations between seat sizes — the sizes correspond to those of the Dressage PADDLE®. The cushions are narrower and more discreet — adopted from the Dressage PADDLE® — and therefore appear more classic and less bulky in appearance, which is particularly advantageous for shorter horses.
The seat is flatter but remains a soft and very comfortable comfort seat. The Seating Profile at the rear does not rise as steeply, so the rider’s hips can swing more freely and balance is found independently. The Knee Roll is also designed flatter: the knee rests on a soft pad, rising slightly at the front — for orientation without dominating.
The design is deliberately understated, without prominent stitching. The narrower and shorter Saddle Flap proportionally suits smaller horses particularly well. The suede surface, grippy seating feeling, adjustability and technology correspond to the original PADDLE®.
Idea
Two worlds united: not a Riding Pad — not a saddle — a PADDLE®. Over time we frequently received the wish to be able to use our Riding Pads in combination with stirrups. We took on the challenge of developing a product that combines the construction and benefits of a Riding Pad with the use of stirrups.
Our mission was to unite these two worlds and create a product that offers the seating feeling of a Riding Pad — with comfort and closeness to the horse — combined with the safety and versatility of stirrups, without restricting the comfort of the horse. After a long and intensive development phase, our developer Stefan Baumgartner succeeded in integrating an innovative pressure distribution element that prevents pressure peaks and ensures maximum comfort.
The result is our PADDLE® — a product that unites the advantages of a Riding Pad with those of a saddle. It deepens harmony and communication between horse and rider and sets new standards in equestrian equipment.
Horse
The PADDLE® offers the horse a perfect combination of fit and comfort. The anatomical cut and flexible construction ensure the PADDLE® conforms harmoniously to the natural curvature of the horse’s back. The V-girthing, which attaches below the spine, minimises pressure on the sensitive area of the spine and provides additional relief.
The infinitely adjustable gullet plate has been adopted from our Custom Made Saddles. It allows the gullet width to be changed infinitely and as often as desired in an instant with a 12 mm key, so that the PADDLE® can be adapted at any time to a wide variety of horse types.
The Velcro Pads with individually shaped soft-foam cushions (included in delivery), with their shock-absorbing effect, ensure optimal pressure distribution and true spinal clearance. The rider’s weight is thus distributed gently and evenly, preventing uncomfortable pressure points and allowing the horse a free and pleasant movement experience. This carefully considered design contributes significantly to the health and wellbeing of your horse, allowing it to move more freely without being hindered by uncomfortable pressure.
Rider
For the rider, the PADDLE® opens up a new dimension of riding experience. Through its comfortable padding it combines comfort with the feeling of sitting particularly close to the horse. The option of using stirrups provides additional safety and versatility, so the rider feels well supported in every situation.
The particularly grippy suede surface provides an incredibly secure seating feeling, regardless of whether riding in breeches with leather trim or jeans (we advise against breeches with silicone grip due to the high abrasion on the leather). It also promotes a particularly quiet leg position and maintains immediate contact with the horse even in dynamic moments. The rising Seating Profile at the rear actively supports the upright posture of the rider without restricting the movement of the hips. The lateral Comfort Knee Roll gently frames the rider’s leg, encourages a long leg and prevents the leg from riding up, leading to better communication between horse and rider. The deliberately narrower seat waist, combined with the thin padding on the lateral Saddle Flaps, gives the rider an even closer feel to the horse and enables more refined aids.
This thoughtful design allows you to focus entirely on the connection with the horse and enjoy every moment in the PADDLE® to the full. A product that unites comfort, safety and functionality — for a riding experience that sets hearts racing.
Additional information
The PADDLE® can be adapted to a very wide range of horse types with just a few steps thanks to its adjustable gullet plate and Velcro Pads. Should the adjustment options not be sufficient in individual cases, specially made Velcro Pads (Custom Velcro Pads | Shop Signum Sattelservice) can be made to order, or our Saddle Cloth with insert pockets & Felt Inlays can be used to ensure an optimal fit.
| Größe | A | B |
|---|---|---|
| Size 1 | 40cm | 49cm |
| Size 2 | 42cm | 51cm |
| Size 3 | 45cm | 51cm |
| Size 4 | 47cm | 52cm |
| Weight | approx. 4 kg |
The rental of a riding pad or PADDLE® for an extended testing period is available for various models. Under the rental menu, you will find the products that can be conveniently tested at home for a longer period. The rental fees can be credited towards the purchase with an amount of up to €350. More detailed information and the terms and conditions can be found in the respective rental product.
Of course, when purchasing through our online shop, you have the right to withdraw within 14 days. This means you may carefully test the riding pad or PADDLE® on your horse. We ask that you protect the item from horse hair or dirt during the fitting. If you are unable to return the product we sent you in whole or in part, or only in a deteriorated condition, you may be required to provide compensation for the value. This does not apply if the deterioration of the item is solely due to its examination, as you would have been able to do in a retail store. Furthermore, you can avoid the obligation to compensate for value by not using the items as if they were your own and by refraining from anything that would impair their value.
Note: When purchasing a custom paddle, it is a product specifically made according to customer specifications. As a result, the statutory 14-day right of withdrawal for contracts concluded online is void. This applies even if the ordered product has not yet been produced. The product will be sent to you by mail after completion and does not include on-site adjustment service. We recommend using our paddle fitting system in combination with our video instructions for easy adjustment directly on the horse.
For the best possible pressure distribution on the horse's back, we recommend combining our riding pads with our Velcro cushions and a saddle pad. With our PADDLE®, use is exclusively intended with the included Velcro cushions.
In this magazine article, we have put together a step-by-step guide for positioning the Velcro pads under a riding pad for you.
Here you will find a video tutorial on adjusting the PADDLE® including the correct positioning of the Velcro cushions. This can be done on the riding pad using the same principle.
When adjusting the PADDLE®, the Velcro pads and especially the headpiece should be correctly fitted to the horse.
As assistance, we have created a step-by-step guide for you. Here is the magazine article "Adjusting the PADDLE® with the Help of the Fitting System," which will help you make the adjustments on-site with just a few simple steps.
For an even easier adjustment of your paddle, we have created video instructions for you. In these, we show you the individual steps for adjusting the PADDLE® with the fitting system directly on the horse.
Our PADDLE® can be easily adjusted with just a few hand movements to fit a variety of horse types. The headpiece built into the PADDLE® can be positioned almost horizontally at its widest setting. The Velcro cushions are also adjustable in any position, so there is nothing preventing adaptation for particularly wide horses.
For an even easier adjustment of your PADDLE®, we have created video instructions for you. In these, we show you the individual steps for adjusting the PADDLE® with the fitting system directly on the horse. What you need to consider when adjusting the PADDLE® for particularly wide, narrow, or short horses has been compiled in another video "Adjusting the PADDLE® for wide, narrow, or short horses."
Our PADDLE® can be easily adjusted with just a few hand movements to fit a variety of horse types. The head iron built into the PADDLE® can be set as narrow as any horse's body would require. The Velcro pads are also positionable in any way, so there is nothing preventing adjustments for narrow horses or horses with a high withers.
If the spinal freedom provided by the included Velcro cushions over the withers does not create sufficient wither freedom, we recommend additional padding with a sheepskin saddle pad or a sheepskin saddle pad with additional insert options.
For an even easier adjustment of your PADDLE®, we have created video instructions for you. In these, we show you the individual steps for "adjusting the PADDLE® with the fitting system" directly on the horse. What you need to consider when adjusting the PADDLE® for particularly wide, narrow, or short horses has been compiled in another video titled "Adjustment of the PADDLE® for wide, narrow, or short horses."
Suede
Suede is a unique and versatile material that changes over time with use and develops a characteristic patina. Here are some important points to consider when caring for and using suede:
Change of optics:
Patina:
- With regular use, suede develops a natural patina. This age-related change gives the material an individual and authentic look. The patina can make the leather softer and more supple, giving it a shiny, smooth, or matte surface. Color changes and signs of wear may occur, making the leather unique and individual.
Sensitivity to water and dirt:
Staining:
- Suede is susceptible to water and oil stains. To prevent stains, you should avoid contact with liquids and greasy substances as much as possible.
Rain and humidity:
- When wet, suede can change its structure and become stiff. If it gets wet, let the material dry slowly in the air and avoid direct heat sources.
Care Instructions:
Cleaning:
- Use a special suede brush to gently remove dirt and dust or to revive the leather. For more stubborn stains, a specialized suede cleaner is recommended.
Storage:
- Store suede products in a dry, well-ventilated place to prevent mold growth. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Wear of suede:
- By properly caring for and consciously handling suede, you can preserve the longevity and beauty of the material and enjoy your suede product for a long time. The development of a patina is a natural process that gives your suede a special depth and character, making it even more unique over time. These changes are not defects in quality, but rather the natural characteristics of the natural product suede.
Faux leather / vegan leather
Faux leather is a unique and versatile material that changes slightly over time with use. Here are some important points to consider when caring for and using vegan faux leather:
Sensitivity compared to suede:
- The material is easier to care for than the natural product leather and does not need to be oiled. However, wear marks can also occur on synthetic leather, which can be counteracted with the right care.
Care Instructions:
Cleaning:
- Cleaner: We recommend the EquiXtreme saddle pad cleaner for cleaning the vegan leather imitation and SIGNUM leather care cloth
- Post-treatment: Work the entire surface with the lamella part of our suede brushes to evenly roughen the cleaned structure
Storage:
- Store in a dry, warm place with low humidity. Especially if the synthetic leather has become wet, it should be allowed to dry slowly and thoroughly to prevent mold formation.
The size of our riding pads & PADDLE® is based on the rider's clothing size. The seat profile allows the rider to have a relaxed and centrally positioned seat when the size is appropriate.
- The size S is recommended for clothing sizes between 34-36
- The size M is recommended for a clothing size of 38-40
- The size L is recommended for a dress size of 42-46
If the seat area is too small, the rider (especially with the rising seat profile of the Dressage riding pad and the PADDLE®) would not only sit uncomfortably but also exert unnecessary pressure on the rising seat profile and cantle, thereby unnecessarily increasing the pressure in the rear area of the horse's back.
The recommended Velcro cushions for the riding pad and the Velcro cushions included with the PADDLE® are designed in terms of size, length, and shape to provide an optimal and even pressure distribution on the horse's back for the seat size. The Velcro cushions are intentionally made slightly longer than the actual seating area of the riding pad or PADDLE® to ensure a gentle pressure distribution without pressure peaks, especially in the edge areas and at the rear end of the padding.
The pressure on the horse's back is primarily transmitted to the horse in the seat area. Since our riding pads and the PADDLE® do not have a fixed saddle tree that stabilizes the Velcro cushions in the rear area all the way to the end, the effect of the Velcro cushions in the rear area can be compared to the effect of a padded saddle blanket. With the size of the Velcro cushions we recommend, unpleasant pressure peaks in the sensitive lumbar region of the horse's back are avoided even on particularly short horses. However, if too short Velcro cushions are used, the well-intentioned and desired effect of relieving the horse's back in the rear area can be reversed - if the cushions are shorter than the seat itself, the leverage of the rider's weight on the cantle of the riding pad/PADDLE® transmits pressure much more pointwise to the end of the Velcro cushion, unnecessarily overloading the horse's back.
Videos & Blog Articles Relevant to This Product
The PADDLE® Slim & Short
In this video, we introduce our new PADDLE® Slim & Short. It is primarily aimed at riders who desire more freedom of movement in the saddle, as well as horses for which traditional shapes can quickly appear too long or too bulky. This model offers a thoughtful solution, especially for smaller or shorter horses.
Compact, finely tuned, and equipped with the proven PADDLE® technology, it ensures a harmonious overall appearance and a clear riding sensation.
Selection of the PADDLE®
The choice of the appropriate PADDLE® depends on several factors, such as the area of use, the rider's weight, and the anatomy of the horse. Different seat profiles, padding, and adjustment options ensure that both the horse and rider receive optimal comfort and freedom of movement.
A detailed decision-making guide can be found here:
The right size
The right size is crucial – not only for your seating comfort but especially for the even distribution of pressure on the horse's back.
We will show you what to pay attention to, how to find the right size, and why it is uncomfortable for your horse if you ride in a PADDLE® that is too small.
The proper care of suede and nubuck leather
By properly caring for and consciously handling suede, you can preserve the longevity and beauty of the material and enjoy your suede product for a long time. This unique and versatile material changes over time with use and develops a characteristic patina. Here are some important points to consider when caring for and using suede:
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If you have any questions or uncertainties, do not hesitate to contact customer service.
A detailed care guide for suede and nubuck leather can be found here:
Learn more
Included in the delivery:
- SIGNUM PADDLE®
- 1 pair of Velcro cushions (right side + left side)
- PADDLE® Fitting-System