Design Spotlight: How a Custom Show Pad Comes to Life
Design Spotlight: How a Custom Show Pad Comes to Life
When it comes to competing in the show pen, your look matters—and your saddle pad plays a huge role in making that first impression count. While we offer a stunning collection of in-stock show pads, there’s something incredibly special about going custom. Whether you’re trying to match a custom show shirt, coordinate with your horse’s coloring, or simply bring a bold, one-of-a-kind vision to life, a custom show pad is your chance to stand out and express your personal style.
At River Runs Show Pads, we make the custom process enjoyable, seamless, and collaborative. Here’s how a custom pad goes from concept to completion.
Why Go Custom?
In-stock pads are beautiful and convenient, but sometimes your look calls for something more tailored. Maybe you have a show shirt being made and want the pad to be a perfect match. Or maybe you’re looking for something totally unique that represents your personality, your style, and your connection with your horse.
Custom show pads give you the freedom to control every detail—from the base color to the accent hues, pattern, and overall feel. It's your chance to create something made just for you.
Color coordination is critical in the show ring. The wrong combination can throw off your whole look, but the right one can elevate your presentation and turn heads. We love helping clients choose colors that not only flatter their outfit and horse but also reflect their individuality.
The Custom Pad Journey: From Vision to Reality
Here’s what you can expect when designing your own custom show pad with us:
Step 1: Get in Touch
It all starts with a conversation. Reach out to us via our custom order form, Facebook Messenger, or email at RiverRunsShowPads@yahoo.com. Let us know if you’re looking for a Semi-Custom or a Complete Custom pad. (Full descriptions of these are below.)
Step 2: Share Your Vision
This is your moment to dream big. We’ll send you a curated color chart featuring over 100 vibrant yarn colors, as well as our twelve exclusive show pad designs, all created in-house by River Runs Show Pads.
We’ll work with you to narrow it down to 1–2 design options that fit your style and needs. Then we’ll collaborate on your color choices—whether it’s to match a shirt you already have or create something brand new from scratch.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re matching to a show shirt, we recommend mailing us a fabric swatch. Photos can be misleading, and screen colors vary—having the actual fabric in hand helps us get the closest match possible. Don’t have a swatch? No problem—we’re happy to reach out directly to your designer to request swatches on your behalf.
Step 3: Visualize It
Now it’s time to see your vision come to life. We’ll create a digital mock-up of your custom pad based on your selections. If anything isn’t quite right, we’ll make adjustments until you’re fully satisfied.
We don’t send anything into production until you’ve approved the final design.
Step 4: Production Begins
Once the design is approved, your pad is officially in the works. Each pad is hand-woven with precision and care to ensure it meets our high standards for quality and craftsmanship.
Step 5: Final Reveal
Before your pad ships, we’ll send you photos so you can see the final result. From there, it’s carefully packed and on its way to you—ready to hit the show pen.
Two Custom Options to Choose From:
🧵 Semi-Custom Show Pad (Black Base)
- Choose one of our twelve existing designs.
- Customize the accent colors.
- Pad base is black.
🎨 Complete Custom Show Pad (Color Base)
- Choose one of our twelve existing designs.
- Customize both the accent colors and the base color.
- Full creative freedom to bring your vision to life.
Stand Out. Be You. Show Boldly.
Your saddle pad is more than just tack—it’s part of your identity in the arena. When you design a custom show pad, you’re not just buying a product. You’re creating something that reflects you, your horse, your hard work, and your love of the sport.
Whether it’s bold and bright, soft and classy, or somewhere in between, we’re here to help bring your perfect pad to life.
Ready to Start?
Visit our Custom Pad Page to begin. Or email us anytime at RiverRunsShowPads@yahoo.com to get started!
We can’t wait to create something amazing with you.