Are there any pads comparable to CSI? That won't break the bank to buy one. I know they are good pads, made in the US, and last forever but $450 is a hard pill to swallow. 

I love my best ever pads, they are still expensive but not as high as the CSI. I have and use both. 

Sometimes expensive pads last longer and really save money in  that respect. I ride saddleright pads mostly. I have one horse that I use  5 stars on , but saddleright is my go to. They are about 350-400 but they literally last FOREVER. I have seen saddlerigjt pads that were 20-25 years old!! Ridden daily. 

My oldest CSI is on its 8th year now, still going strong. Haven't even flipped the liner yet & it's not compressed down either. They're definitely worth the money and the interchanging liners are the best. I can use the same topper on all the horses & just switch liners when I need different thicknesses. I have another I got lightly used from a friend thats still **** near brand new after 2 years. It's barely even broken in. There's a facebook page for used ones, they sell for decent prices in good condition on there. Check for some deals because the top will last you a lifetime and the liners are decent priced to replace. Flipping them gives a lot longer life than most saddle pads offer

How is everyone cleaning their pads?

I use a sleek ez to get the hair off. then hose it off with a spray nozzle. and hang on fence to dry seems to work fine.

I just powerwash without soap & throw over the fecne to dry in the sun 

I'd rather pay $350-500 for a great pad that last forever(mine is 7 years old) than pay for a $2500+ custom made saddle and a $100 felt pad. 

IMO a quality custom made saddle should not make the horse it was made for sore with only a felt pad, like the BestEver... thats the way i look at it.

Not really comparable, but different. You can get a customized team equine, saddleright or corrector among others... I've tried alot of them.

After trying them all, I have a csi, and 5 stars. I love them both for different horses. I think its good to have a couple different pads if you can afford it. I would rather spend more on a GOOD pad and know that my horse is comfortable and know the pad will last me a while.