One of my horses will soon start riding again for the first time afterhis KS surgery and the other is coming 3 years old and I'll start riding him lightly this year. Because he's so young he's still a little on the small side for me. Now both of these horses can carry my weight but I was researching the topic and they said that weight distribution and riding quietly are more important than the actual weight of the rider. By some miracle my saddle fits both of them perfectly (at least for now, if baby changes he'll get his own saddle) and of course western saddles distribute riders' weight far better than an english saddle. But in the interest of being extra careful with both of their backs, I want to make sure I get the absolute best weight distribution possible. I feel like the CSI pad is an obvious choice but thought I'd put my feelers out for maybe a less expensive option.

Nothing better than a saddleright for those cases. They come In 2 thicknesses. Standard will support up to 300 pounds. The thicker version is up to 600. Barrel racers of any size pretty much can use standard. But if your roping or want more protection, get the thicker one. 

Saddleright!

My goodness--I looked into the Saddleright and they are expensive! I saw $370. My first saddle cost $370., lol. 

I rode them for awhile. I wasn't super impressed.

I am not convinced that a saddle pad can do much for weight distribution. I think that is the role of a well fitting saddle and a good seat, along with proper training. 

The Saddleright pad will never conform to a horse's back. It keeps the saddle from sitting as intended. Mine had sore backs and muscle atrophy while using these pads.

now this is a sticky wicket 

I went with a saddle right. I have tried all the others and did not have good luck with them. I finally got a saddle right and could not be happier with the fit and comfort it gives my horse, also keeps the saddle from rolling with a round horse.  Yes they are expensive but after buying 5 different pads it was worth it.