PolyPads®
top class in pressure test trials
PI
Associates/PolyPads® saddle pads have been awarded top marks
for effectiveness, quality and price in a recent pressure testing
trial conducted for Holland’s prestigious Bit Magazine by leading
saddle manufacturers Stubben in Krefeld, Germany. This
pressure testing trial is the first independent study of its kind
to have been carried out on why saddle pads work and their effectiveness
against pressure when under the saddle. The
PI Associates/Polypads® Classic Single Polypad® was one
of 10 scientifically tested saddle pads, ranging from a lambskin
pad to a selection of well-known gel pads. The trial was overseen
by Jan Hermkens of FSA pressure measurements, a recognised expert
in the field of pressure measurements in saddle fittings and Henk
Winkelman a biomechanics engineer and lecturer in professional equestrian
training. The PolyPad® achieved an impressive second place in
the average pressure exertion test, went on to score top marks in
the crucial contact surface area pressure test and was ultimately
voted ‘best buy’. The
average pressure indicates the extent to which the pad spreads the
weight exerted by saddle and rider - the lower the average pressure,
the better. The PolyPad® scored 37 grams/cm2, just four marks
and one place behind the top scoring lambskin pad. The majority
of the other pads scored between 59 and 106 grams/cm2. With an average
saddle blanket scoring 66 grams/cm2, six of the 10 pads tested did
not even reach this standard of pressure dispersal. The
total surface over which pressure is spread is also a vital factor
in selecting an effective saddle pad, with the maximum possible
contact surface area ensuring that the weight of saddle and rider
are distributed in the most efficient way. The PolyPad® achieved
the top mark of 1.617cm2 in this test category. Penny
Makinson Proprietor of PI Associates/PolyPads® says: “We
were not aware of this independent pressure test trial, or that
a PolyPad® was included, until we were sent a copy of the report
by one of our distributors in Holland. Needless to say we are thrilled
with the results. Many top eventers use PolyPads® out of choice
and this report confirms why they have made their decision –
because PolyPads® are kinder to horses backs.” For
further information and stockist details telephone: PI Associates/PolyPadsÒ
on 01284 850511 or visit the website at www.polypads.co.uk
.
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