Mattes

Mattes – German Perfection in Fur Pads

Mattes is a family-owned manufacturer from Bavaria that has been creating the highest quality saddle pads from natural lambskin since 1991. In the small town of Pfarrkirchen, in the heart of Germany, Annemarie Mattes began producing fur pads to address the problem of chafing and discomfort on horses' backs. Today, over 30 years later, Mattes is synonymous with luxury, comfort, and unparalleled quality – a brand whose pads are chosen by the most discerning riders and their horses worldwide. At Equishop Store, we offer a full range of Mattes products, offering professional advice on selecting the perfect pad for your horse.

Beginnings – The Motherly Love That Created the Icon

The Mattes story is one of maternal love and determination. Annemarie Mattes, mother of a talented equestrian, noticed that traditional pads were causing chafing and discomfort for her daughter's horse. As an experienced seamstress, she decided to create something better herself. Using natural lambskin—a material known for its exceptional thermoregulatory and shock-absorbing properties—she sewed the first Mattes pad.

The results exceeded expectations. The horse not only stopped chafing, but also felt significantly more comfortable and his performance improved. Other riders at the stable noticed the difference and began asking Annemarie to sew pads for their horses. Thus, Mattes was born – from a simple need to protect the back of a beloved horse.

From the beginning, the philosophy was clear: the highest quality materials, precise workmanship, and absolute priority on the horse's comfort. No compromises, no shortcuts. Each pad is hand-sewn from the finest fur available, according to the highest standards of craftsmanship. Over the years, the company has grown organically, gaining the recognition of professional riders throughout Europe. Today, Mattes is a global brand, but it remains a family business, run with the same passion as in the early days.

Mattes Pads – The Foundation of the Offer and the Icon of Comfort

Saddle pads are the heart and soul of Mattes – the product that made the brand famous and which remains the absolute foundation of its offerings. It was Mattes fur saddle pads that revolutionized the approach to horseback comfort and became the gold standard in the equestrian world. Each pad is a work of art, hand-sewn with precision and attention to every detail.

Natural Lamb Fur – The Heart of Mattes Pads

The heart of every Mattes pad is natural medical-grade lambskin – a material with unique properties that cannot be replaced by any synthetic material. This is the same fur used in medicine to prevent pressure sores in bedridden patients – fur with the longest, densest, and highest-quality fibers, carefully selected and processed.

Why lambskin is special for a horse's back:

• Natural thermoregulation year-round – lambskin has a unique ability to regulate temperature. In winter, it insulates and retains heat, protecting the back muscles from cooling. In summer, it wicks away excess heat and moisture, preventing overheating. The horse's back remains at an optimal temperature regardless of the season.
• Excellent shock absorption and pressure distribution – the fur fibers are naturally resilient and elastic, absorbing impacts and distributing saddle pressure evenly across the entire back. This significantly reduces pressure points, protects the spine, and prevents painful areas.
• Moisture wicking without feeling wet – the fur can absorb up to 30% of its own weight in moisture without feeling wet. Sweat is quickly wicked away from the horse's skin, preventing irritation, skin maceration, and overheating. The back remains dry and comfortable even during intense training.
• Natural antibacterial properties – Lanolin, naturally present in fur, has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, preventing skin infections and accelerating the healing of minor abrasions. It provides natural protection against dermatological problems.
• Prevents chafing and irritation – soft, delicate fur fibers prevent friction or chafing, even on sensitive skin. Ideal for horses with back injuries or particularly sensitive skin.
• Self-cleaning and easy to maintain – lambskin has a natural ability to repel dirt and clean itself. Dust and debris can be simply brushed away.
• Exceptional durability – with proper care, high-quality Mattes lambskin will last for many years (often 10-15 years), retaining its properties. It's a long-term investment.

Mattes Pad Construction – Perfection in Every Layer

Mattes pads are not just fur – they are a well-thought-out, multi-layer construction designed for maximum comfort and back protection.

Construction of the Mattes pad:

• The contact layer – natural lambskin – is in direct contact with the horse's back. This is where the magic happens – thermoregulation, moisture management, and protection against abrasion.
• Shock-absorbing core – a multi-layer filling made of memory foam or special synthetic fibers. Available in various thicknesses (from 10mm to 30mm), tailored to the horse's needs and saddle fit. The core evenly distributes pressure and absorbs shock.
• Stabilizing layer – prevents pad movement and ensures structural integrity.
• The underside of the pad is made of high-quality cotton or leather, and is saddle-friendly. The non-slip surface prevents shifting while riding.
• Anatomical shape – adapted to the structure of the horse's back, with an appropriate cut for the withers ensuring freedom of movement of the shoulder blades and spine.
• Precision hand-stitching – every seam is hand-crafted by experienced craftsmen, reinforced at key points. No machines – just human hands and eyes.
• High-quality finishes – trims made of natural leather or high-quality fabrics, elegant details, solid fittings.

Pads by fur coverage:

• Full-fur pads – lambskin covering the entire surface of the back. Maximum comfort, protection, and thermoregulation. Ideal for horses with sensitive backs, those recovering from injuries, or those undergoing intense training.
• Pads with fur on the back – fur only in the area of ​​direct contact with the spine and back muscles. Lighter, more economical, while still offering the key benefits of fur.
• Fur strip pads – strategically placed fur strips at the most sensitive points (along the spine, in the shoulder blade area).

Correction pads:

• With pockets for corrective pads , they allow for precise saddle adjustment by adding or removing pads in specific places. Ideal for horses with asymmetrical backs or those undergoing rehabilitation.
• With asymmetrical filling – custom-made for horses with specific needs.

Colors, Personalization, and Custom Orders

Mattes offers placemats in natural fur colors (white, cream, brown, black) and dyed in a variety of shades, from pastel to vibrant. Full customization is also available:

• Custom sizes – custom-made pads for horses with unusual back structures
• Choice of fur and trim color – matching your style and furnishing color scheme
• Embroidery – horse's name, club logo, owner's initials
• Thickness and type of padding – adapted to the needs of the horse and saddle
• Special shapes and cutouts – for unusual saddles or specific needs

The custom order process takes 6-8 weeks, but the result is worth the wait – you receive a perfectly fitted pad, hand-sewn especially for you and your horse.

Other Mattes Offers – Complementing Comfort

In addition to the flagship pads, Mattes also offers other products with natural lamb fur and high-quality leather:

Fur protectors and bandages:

• Lambskin lined protectors – impact protection without abrasion
• Bandages with fur strips – comfort during transport and after training
• Perfect for horses with sensitive leg skin

Fur blankets:

• Cooling rugs with fur on the back – quick moisture wicking after training
• Stable blankets with fur – warmth and comfort on colder days

Leather accessories:

• Leather halters with fur lining – elegance and comfort
• Lanyards and reins – durable, hand-sewn
• Bags and covers – protection for your equipment

Mattes Global

Mattes pads are present in the world's most important equestrian arenas. Top dressage, showjumping, and eventing competitors choose Mattes for their horses, knowing that comfort and back health are the foundation of performance. At the Olympic Games, World Championships, and prestigious 5* competitions, you can see the distinctive Mattes fur pads under the saddles of medalists.

Why Mattes Pads?

• Natural medical lamb fur – the highest quality, unique properties
• Hand-sewn in Bavaria – each coaster is a work of art
• A family business since 1991 – passion and commitment for over 30 years
• Natural thermoregulation – year-round comfort
• Preventing chafing and back problems – protecting your horse's health
• Excellent shock absorption – protection of the spine and muscles
• Moisture wicking – dry and comfortable back
• Durability for years – an investment that pays off many times over
• Full personalization – tailoring to your needs
• Trusted by professionals – the choice of top players
• Elegance and prestige – a luxurious look in every arena

Professional Consulting at Equishop

At Equishop, we specialize in Mattes pads and understand how important the right choice is for your horse's health and comfort. We offer comprehensive advice to help you choose the perfect Mattes pad for your horse.

We will help you:

• Choose the right shape and size – adapted to the type of saddle and the horse's build
• Choose the thickness of the padding – depending on the fit of the saddle and the sensitivity of the back
• Decide on fur covering – full fur or stripes, depending on your needs and budget
• Choose the color and finishes to suit your style
• Order a custom pad – full service for personalized orders
• Plan your investment – ​​Mattes pads are a significant expense, we will help you choose the optimal solution

We understand that a Mattes pad is an investment. That's why we want you to be sure you're choosing exactly what you need. Our team will answer all your questions and help you make the best decision for your horse.

Mattes at Equishop – Investing in Back Health

At Equishop, we offer a full range of Mattes pads – from classic full-fur models, through corrective pads, to custom-made ones. As an authorized Mattes dealer, we provide original products, professional advice, and full customization service.

The Mattes pad isn't just equipment—it's an investment in your horse's health, comfort, and longevity. Natural lambskin protects the back, prevents chafing, regulates temperature, and improves the horse's well-being. A horse that feels comfortable performs better, is healthier, and is happier.

For many horse owners, switching to a Mattes pad is a breakthrough – they see a noticeable difference in their horse's comfort, willingness to work, and overall back health. It's an investment that pays off many times over in terms of the horse's health and performance.

Discover Mattes pads at Equishop Store – fur masterpieces hand-sewn in Bavaria from the highest quality natural lambskin. Each pad combines German craftsmanship, natural materials, and a passion for horse well-being. Join the thousands of horse owners worldwide who trust Mattes and Equishop Store.

Invest in the comfort of your horse's back - visit Equishop and discover the magic of Mattes fur pads!