Showing is all about displaying your horse at his best – so the best numnahs for showing are discreet with a neat fit. Showing requires a smart appearance and, therefore when thinking about what to wear showing, less fussy designs are usually preferred – you want the judge to be looking at your horse, rather than distracted by a bulky, mismatched or ill-fitting pad. This is why numnahs are shaped to match the saddle and cover a much smaller area than GP saddle pads or dressage squares.
H&H’s showing editor Bethan Simons says that the most important thing when buying a numnah for showing is that it fits correctly.
“You want a neat, precise fit around the saddle – too small is uncomfortable and could cause pressure points on your horse’s back, while too large or bulky distracts from your horse,” she explains. Jump down for more of Bethan’s advice and tips on how to choose a numnah for showing.
To ensure a discreet look, choose a numnah that’s the same colour as your saddle – most showing tack is brown, so we’ve illustrated the options with the brown colourway.
Best showing numnahs
Stephens Sheepskin Shaped Showing Numnah
Colours: Mocca or black
Sizes: S–L
This numnah is fully lined with a rolled edge – and is different to other lined options as it doesn’t have the sheepskin roll at the back, which gives a neater look.
Supreme Products Numnah
Colours: Brown or black
Sizes: 12–18in
This straight cut double fleece numnah has a cut-back head and will mould to your saddle, creating a soft and luxurious fit. The attachments are hidden to give a really smart appearance.
It’s available in sizes to match your saddle length, which is more precise than many other brands offer – and is available in GP shape if you don’t have a straight-cut saddle.
Cameo Equine Performance Working Hunter Numnah
Colours: Brown
Sizes: Pony, cob or full
Machine washable: Yes
This numnah is traditional in look but made with modern technical fabrics. It’s fully lined with soft faux lambswool for pressure relief and has an airmesh outer layer for breathability. Each of the Velcro straps are both discreet and adjustable.
LeMieux Acavallo Showing Numnah
Colours: Brown
Sizes: S–X
Machine washable: 30°C
If you have saddle slipping issues, this is a great option for you. This suede-effect numnah has hypoallergenic gel on the underside (image shows the numnah inside out) that provides a non-slip shock absorbing layer. It’s edged smartly and discretely with luxurious Merino lambswool.
Rhinegold Cotton Quilted Numnah
Colours: 11 options
Sizes: Pony, cob or full
These cotton numnahs are a great option if you’re shopping on a budget or have plans to try a low level showing class for the first time. They have a classic diamond quilting, with lightweight foam filling, touch-tape attachments and a taped spine.
Shires Arma Fully Lined Numnah
Colours: Brown or black
Sizes: 15–16½in or 17–18in
Machine washable: 30°C
This numnah has a full fleece lining to offer cushioning and reduce pressure under the whole saddle area while also increasing airflow. It has a foam core under the saddle section, too, and is designed to reduce bulk at the spine and encourage airflow. The girth guides are fixed, while the retaining straps have easy touch-tape closures.
Griffin Nuumed Everyday Quilted Working Hunter Numnah
Colours: Brown
Sizes: S–L
Machine washable: Below 40°C
This numnah is suitable for showing and hunting, and specifically shaped for a working hunter saddle. It’s hard-wearing to withstand daily use, but has a soft quilting and binding for a more comfortable feel on the skin and to prevent rubbing. The high wither design also helps to alleviate pressure across the back.
How to choose the best numnah for showing
“When choosing a numnah, always opt for one that gives you a close fit rather than choosing a showing-specific numnah if it’s not the right shape and will look wrong under the saddle,” Bethan advises.
Showing saddles usually have a straighter cut than a GP saddle, which allows you to show off the shoulder, so when selecting a numnah you should consider the shape of your saddle. If you have a working hunter saddle, then select a numnah to fit.
“Once you’ve got your numnah home, make sure to practice in it prior to your competition. It could well feel quite different for your horse so make sure they are happy with it, especially with half pads and those with anti slip features,” says Bethan. “It’s also worth experimenting with the different materials if your horse is a little sensitive or ticklish.”
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