ThinLine English Trim-To-Fit Saddle Fitting Shims
Description
ThinLine English Trim-To-Fit Saddle Fitting Shims
ThinLine English Trim-to-Fit Shims are 3/16" (4.8mm) shock-absorbing foam inserts that slot into a shimmable saddle pad to fine-tune saddle balance. Supplied in pairs with printed scoring marks, they are trimmed with scissors or a box cutter into front, bridging or rear shims, making them best for riders dealing with a bridging saddle, a dipped or swayback topline, or a young horse whose shape is still changing.
Because the foam never expires or compresses, one set can be re-trimmed and re-stacked over years of use. Browse more saddle pads and numnahs to pair with your shims.
Key Features
- Trim-to-fit: scoring marks and guidelines let you create front, bridging or rear shims at home
- Slim 3/16" (4.8mm) profile: adds targeted height without bulk under the saddle
- Shock-absorbing comfort foam: the same foam used in ThinLine saddle pads
- No expiration date: the foam does not compress or deteriorate, so shims last
- Stackable offcuts: surplus pieces can be layered to build extra height
- Stays in position: inserts do not shift, and an undivided pocket allows precise placement
- Full-shim option: a cost-effective all-in-one fit that also protects the pad and back
- Bridging support: start with 1-2 shims to help even out contact and encourage top-line development
- Supplied in pairs
Specifications
| Brand | ThinLine |
|---|---|
| Product type | English trim-to-fit saddle fitting shims |
| Thickness | 3/16" (4.8mm) |
| Material | Shock-absorbing comfort foam |
| Quantity | Supplied in pairs |
| Shim configurations | Front, bridging, rear or full shim |
| Trimming tools | Scissors or box cutter |
| Country of origin | USA |
How To Use
- Assess your saddle on the horse's bare back and note where it sits low, rocks or bridges.
- Decide which shim you need - front for a saddle sitting low at the pommel, rear for a low cantle, bridging for a gap through the middle.
- Follow the printed scoring marks and trim with scissors or a box cutter, cutting conservatively as foam cannot be added back.
- Slide the shim into the pocket of your shimmable pad and position it precisely where lift is needed.
- Ride in and reassess. Stack trimmed offcuts to add height, or remove a shim if the saddle now sits high.
- Re-check the balance regularly and have your saddle assessed by a qualified saddle fitter as the horse's shape changes.
FAQ
How thick are ThinLine trim-to-fit shims?
Each shim is 3/16" (4.8mm) thick, thin enough to add subtle height without bulk. Offcuts can be stacked if you need more lift.
How many shims should I start with for a bridging saddle?
For a bridging saddle or a swayback horse, start with one or two shims. Adding height gradually helps balance contact and encourages top-line development, and many riders can remove shims as muscle builds.
How do I trim them?
Use scissors or a box cutter and follow the printed scoring marks and trimming guidelines. Trim a little at a time - you can always cut more, but you cannot replace foam once removed.
Will the shims move around under the saddle?
No. The inserts stay in place without shifting, and because the pocket is not divided you can place them exactly where your horse needs support.
Do the shims wear out?
The foam has no expiration date and does not compress or deteriorate, so a set can be re-trimmed and re-stacked as your horse changes shape.
Do shims replace a professional saddle fitting?
No. Shims fine-tune balance between fittings. Always have your saddle checked by a qualified saddle fitter, particularly for young or changing horses.
About ThinLine
ThinLine produces slim, shock-absorbing foam products for saddle pads and saddle fitting. The brand's focus is on thin profiles that cushion the horse's back and absorb concussion while keeping the rider in close contact with the horse.