What is the difference between a bareback pad and a saddle?

A saddle is a rigid structure, built on a tree, that spreads the rider’s weight over a wide area of the back and raises the rider above the horse. A bareback pad is a flexible piece of equipment, without a tree, that places the rider as close as possible to the horse’s back for a freer and more connected ride. A saddle remains essential for certain disciplines and for long hours of work. A bareback pad, on the other hand, favours feel, lightness and closeness to the horse. A well-designed model such as Vahana’s FlyPad® still protects the back and withers thanks to its channel, whereas riding fully bareback offers no protection at all.