Saddle cloth

Abstract

The invention relates to a saddle pad (1) comprising at least two parts: an upper part (2) and a lining (3). These two parts are detachable by means of reversible fastening means (4). The upper part comprises an outer layer (2A) of hair-resistant fabric and a cushioning layer (2B), and the lining comprises a moisture-absorbing textile. The lining, designed to absorb perspiration, can be washed more frequently than the upper part, which is generally thicker and bulkier in a washing machine. This is all the more practical since, as the upper part has a hair-resistant surface, it gets dirty much less quickly.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of horse riding and more particularly to saddle pads, blankets and quarter sheets.

[0002] Horse riding involves using a saddle, under which a saddle pad is usually inserted to hold the saddle securely on the horse and protect its back. A saddle pad typically consists of a thick layer (for example, between 1 mm and 1 cm) of cushioning material. This layer is covered with a thin fabric that provides the pad's appearance; quilted patterns are often sewn on to secure this fabric to the cushioning layer. A saddle pad is generally made of breathable, absorbent, and soft materials to protect the horse's back from chafing and moisture. Because it is in regular contact with the horse, the saddle pad gets dirty from sweat, dust, and hair.

[0003] During physical activity, the animal produces a lot of heat and therefore sweats to maintain its body temperature. The saddle pad absorbs this sweat. It also helps to distribute the pressure exerted by the saddle on the animal's back and prevents chafing that could injure the animal.

[0004] When horses shed their coats, especially during their seasonal molt, the accumulation of horsehair on saddle pads is a common problem for riders. Indeed, hair tends to accumulate on saddle pads, even more so when there is perspiration, which can cause discomfort for the horse while being ridden and make cleaning the pad more difficult.

[0005] Hair stuck to the saddle pad should be brushed off before washing. However, this brushing step is often long, tedious, and ineffective; some hair can remain until washing and clog the machine. Furthermore, a pad that is only partially hair-free requires a longer wash cycle (pre-wash, with higher water consumption).

[0006] DE202004008549U1 offers a saddle pad comprising an upper part containing a cushioning layer and an absorbent lower part, the lower part of which, which comes into contact with the horse's back, is removably attached to the upper layer using Velcro.

[0007] Also, current solutions to this problem often involve complicated cleaning methods or the use of potentially harmful chemicals.

[0008] DE202017101337U1 features a multi-layered composite textile material with distinct pressure-absorbing characteristics. Regular maintenance of the saddle pad helps preserve the longevity of the equipment and the health and comfort of the horse's skin.

[0009] The plaintiff therefore deemed it necessary to improve the design of a saddle pad to facilitate its maintenance. Summary of the invention

[0010] A saddle pad according to the invention is defined in independent claim 1. A saddle pad kit according to the invention is defined in independent claim 13. A use of the saddle pad according to any one of claims 1 to 12 or of the kit of claim 13 according to the invention is defined in independent claims 14 and 15. Dependent claims 2 to 12 define particular embodiments of the saddle pad according to the invention.

[0011] To this end, the invention relates to a saddle pad comprising at least: an upper part comprising a cushioning layer; a lining comprising a moisture-absorbing textile; and reversible attachment means for the upper part to the lining arranged in correspondence on the upper part and on the lining. characterized in that said upper part comprises an outer anti-hair layer.

[0012] The invention is therefore a two-layer, detachable riding saddle pad, as defined in claim 1. The lining, which is the lower layer designed to absorb perspiration and preferably without retaining hair, can thus be easily cleaned of hair and washed more frequently than the upper layer. It should also be noted that this lining, being thinner than the upper layer, dries faster than a traditional saddle pad, which is also thicker and takes up more space in a washing machine. This is all the more convenient since the upper layer also has a hair-resistant surface and therefore gets dirty much less quickly.

[0013] The upper part is the part of the saddle pad that comes into contact with the saddle. Its primary properties are to be durable and hair-resistant.

[0014] The outer layer of the upper part is the part that is in contact with the external environment and the saddle, and not with the horse's back. This visible outer layer is exposed to the external environment, including dirt, dust, and hair.

[0015] The cushioning or comfort layer of the invention is a conventional cushioning layer used by those skilled in the art in saddle pads. It is typically located between the outer top layer and the lining; its purpose is to provide comfort for the horse's back. It may, for example, be made of fleece, a non-woven fabric, a 3D fabric or knit, foam, a gel insert, etc.

[0016] The outer anti-hair layer preferably covers the entire cushioning layer.

[0017] The outer, hair-resistant layer and the shock-absorbing layer are permanently bonded. For example, they are sewn together. Optionally, a binding can be added around the edge of the saddle pad to reinforce the bond between the two layers and to conceal the edges, preventing fraying.

[0018] The other side of the cushioning layer (the side facing the lining) can also advantageously be covered with one or more other layers with specific functions. This could be a simple protective layer for the cushioning layer, for example, a fabric, possibly also serving an aesthetic purpose. Alternatively, it could be a layer that is breathable but not moisture-permeable to prevent perspiration absorbed by the lining from transferring to the cushioning layer, which could also be a fabric. It could also be a layer that provides anti-slip properties to the upper surface, in contact with the lining.

[0019] The lining consists of a moisture-absorbing fabric. It must, however, be able to dry quickly. The lining's function is to absorb the animal's perspiration during exercise. The moisture-absorbing fabric is therefore preferably hydrophilic, i.e., a fabric made primarily of hydrophilic fibers. Examples include natural fibers such as cotton, linen, and hemp, or synthetic or semi-synthetic fibers such as polyester, nylon, polyamide, or viscose, or a blend of fibers such as polycotton.

[0020] Ideally, the lining is made of a soft and comfortable material to prevent chafing and irritation of the horse's skin. It is also breathable to prevent the accumulation of heat and moisture on the animal's skin.

[0021] Preferably, the lining also has anti-hair properties.

[0022] It is important that it is also made of a fabric that hair doesn't cling to and that it is thin enough to dry quickly. It is also resistant to repeated washings.

[0023] The upper part is attached to the lining in a removable manner using reversible fasteners. These reversible fasteners between the upper part and the lining are fastening systems that can be used to temporarily attach two objects together, such as a snap fastener, a button and buttonhole, a hook and loop closure, a Velcro® fastener, magnets, or a zipper. These systems are commonly used to allow for quick and easy adjustments. They also facilitate the replacement of damaged or worn parts. These fasteners are well known to those skilled in the art.

[0024] The fastenings are arranged to match the top and lining, meaning that when they are joined, the top covers the lining to form the saddle pad. Both elements have a classic riding saddle pad shape.

[0025] The fastenings are preferably arranged around the perimeter of the top layer and the lining, but could also be arranged differently. It is advantageous for these fastenings not to be located where the saddle will be placed, so as not to create any pressure points for the horse. For example, snap fasteners are positioned around the perimeter of both layers, at the level of the piping, at regular intervals. As another example, a zipper is placed around the perimeter or part of the perimeter of the saddle pad. Finally, another example could be a system of adhesive strips positioned over all or part of the surface of the lining.

[0026] A key aspect of the invention is that neither the upper part of the saddle pad nor the lining can accumulate hair on its surface. This is particularly important during the shedding periods after summer and winter, when a lot of hair is shed by the animal and disperses into its immediate surroundings and onto its equipment and that of its rider, especially during grooming such as brushing, but not only then.

[0027] According to the invention, the outer anti-hair layer and / or the lining is a fabric that does not promote the adhesion of hair to its surface.

[0028] This surface can be made of different materials, such as cotton, polyester, nylon or synthetic materials.

[0029] A fabric's hair-repellent properties are achieved through one or more specific characteristics. For example, a hair-repellent fabric ideally contains hydrophilic fibers. Hydrophilic fibers are fibers with an affinity for water and the ability to retain and absorb it. This property can be useful for preventing pet hair from accumulating on carpets or other surfaces, as pet hair tends to be largely hydrophobic.

[0030] Hydrophilic fibers are well known to those skilled in the art and are used in the textile industry, particularly in the manufacture of fabrics for sportswear, baby diapers, wipes, and sanitary napkins. Hydrophilic fibers can be intrinsically hydrophilic or have been chemically or physically treated, such as by impregnation with hydrophilic substances, steam treatment, or exposure to plasmas.

[0031] Hydrophilic fibers useful for the invention include, for example, polyamide fibers, hydrophilic polyester fibers, microfibers, linen, cotton, silk, etc.

[0032] For example, the anti-hair fabric has a weight per unit area of ​​between 70 and 300 g / m², preferably between 80 and 250 g / m², preferably between 100 and 200 g / m².

[0033] For example, pet hair-resistant fabric is a tightly woven fabric. The thread count per square centimeter is measured according to ASTM D3775 and is preferably at least 30 threads per square centimeter, preferably at least 50 threads per square centimeter, and preferably at least 70 threads per square centimeter. The mesh density depends on the number of threads per unit area and is adjusted to meet specific requirements for strength, flexibility, or texture. The fabric must, however, remain breathable and not be too tight.

[0034] For example, anti-hair fabric is a fabric whose average fiber count is less than 40 dtex, preferably less than 30 dtex, preferably even less than 10 dtex.

[0035] Anti-slip elements can be inserted between the top layer and the lining. These elements can be attached to the top layer, the lining, or be completely independent. They extend over all or part of the surface of the saddle pad.

[0036] Anti-slip devices increase the coefficient of friction, thus reducing the possibility of the upper part slipping against the lining. They prevent the formation of creases in the lining that could be uncomfortable or even injure the horse's back. These devices include, for example, materials with anti-slip properties, such as silicone, latex, rubber, or any other material capable of increasing the coefficient of friction.

[0037] Anti-slip materials can be a layer of textile onto which grooves, patterns (e.g., dots), textures, or a specific coating are printed in anti-slip material. Alternatively, it can be a canvas made of anti-slip fibers (made anti-slip by coating) or an anti-slip mesh.

[0038] Alternatively, anti-slip means can be Velcro ®< inserts.

[0039] The upper part of the saddle pad is preferably breathable. Air permeability is determined by the amount of air that can pass through the fabric per unit of time and per unit area under a given pressure. It can be influenced by the density, porosity, thickness, and structure of the fabric. Air permeability is often measured according to specific testing standards, such as ASTM D737.

[0040] Advantageously, the lining comprises several layers, including at least one layer of a moisture-absorbing textile. It may include, for example, an additional layer of material or fabric added to reinforce, protect, or improve the properties of the lining, for example, to encase the moisture-absorbing textile to improve wear resistance, provide additional cushioning, or protect against chafing or irritation.

[0041] Preferably, the saddle pad according to the invention helps to make washing less of a hassle by offering a replacement set of at least one part. To this end, the invention, as defined in claim 13, also relates to a saddle pad kit comprising: an upper part comprising a cushioning layer; several linings, each comprising a moisture-absorbing textile; and reversible attachment means for the upper part to the linings, arranged correspondingly on the upper part and each lining, the linings being interchangeable, characterized in that said upper part comprises an outer anti-hair layer.

[0042] The invention will be better understood by the following description of several examples, with reference to the figures in which: There figure 1 is a general cross-sectional diagram of a saddle pad according to the invention. figure 2 illustrates a variant of the saddle pad of the figure 1 . there figure 3 This is a diagram of an alternative saddle pad with a non-slip layer between the upper and lower parts. figure 4 illustrates another saddle pad according to the invention. The figure 5is a diagram of another saddle pad according to the invention.

[0043] The various features possibly illustrated separately in the examples below can be combined with each other, depending on the needs and the degree of finish that a person skilled in the art wishes to bring to the saddle pad of the invention.

[0044] With reference to the figure 1 , a saddle pad 1 according to the invention consists of two distinct parts: an upper part 2 and a lining 3 linked together by reversible fastening means 4.

[0045] The upper part 2 comprises two superimposed layers: an outer layer of anti-hair fabric 2A, which is intended to be in contact with the saddle and is, for example, a polyamide fabric, and a cushioning layer 2B, permanently assembled, for example, sewn together and / or glued or welded.

[0046] The lining 3 of the saddle pad 1 is, for example, a textile made of natural fibers such as cotton. Several layers of this textile may be superimposed to increase its thickness, or it may be a single layer with a three-dimensional structure, such as a honeycomb structure. The lining allows moisture to be absorbed and perspiration to wick away from the animal during exercise. Optionally, the lining 3 may include a protective layer or cover 5 (see Fig. 2 ) in textile, for example glued or sewn to the lining, in order to offer additional protection against wear and tear, while providing a soft and comfortable surface for the horse.

[0047] The upper layer 2 and the lining 3 are joined using reversible fasteners 4, such as snap fasteners, Velcro® fasteners, or zippers. For example, snap fasteners are distributed around the perimeter of the upper layer and the lining, opposite each other. This allows the upper layer 2 to be securely attached to the lining 3, while also allowing for easy separation for washing the two parts of the saddle pad 1 separately, or for replacing the upper layer 2 or the lining if they become worn or if you change your style. "Securely" means that the fastening must withstand any forces generated during the horse's exertion between the upper layer 2 and the lining 3, thus ensuring the rider's safety.

[0048] The saddle pad of the invention may also include anti-slip means between the upper part and the lining. These anti-slip means thus reduce the risk of the upper part slipping relative to the lining and also prevent the formation of creases in the lining that could be uncomfortable or even injure the horse's back. Figures 3 to 5 ).

[0049] With reference to the figure 3 , a saddle pad 11 according to the invention consists of two distinct parts: an upper part 12, comprising an outer layer of anti-hair fabric 12A and a cushioning layer 12B, and a lining 13 linked together by reversible fastening means 14.

[0050] The saddle pad 11 includes anti-slip means 15, represented by a layer totally independent of the upper part 12 and the lining 13. It may, for example, be a silicone or rubber patch, which only partially covers the surface of the saddle pad, and which in particular does not cover the fastening means.

[0051] Alternatively, with reference to the figure 4A saddle pad 21 consists of an upper part 22 (comprising an outer layer of anti-hair fabric 22A and a cushioning layer 22B) and a lining 23 joined together by reversible fastening means 24, for example, snap fasteners. Anti-slip means 25 are permanently attached to the upper part 22. These means may be a layer of textile on which anti-slip dots are printed. They could also be a layer of textile on the surface of which a specific anti-slip coating is applied, or even an anti-slip mesh.

[0052] Alternatively, with reference to the figure 5, a saddle pad 31 consists of an upper part 32 and a lining 33 linked together by reversible fastening means 34. The anti-slip means 35 are here permanently fixed to the lining 33, reducing the risk of slippage of the upper part 32 relative to the lining 33.

[0053] To use the saddle pad of the invention, the rider takes the upper part and the lining and assembles them using the reversible fastening means, then places the assembly on the horse's back with the lining in direct contact with the animal. The rider can then place the saddle on the saddle pad and girth it to the horse.

[0054] After mounting the horse, the rider removes the saddle and then the saddle pad, and detaches the lining from the upper part using the reversible fastening means.

[0055] After use, the lining, which has absorbed the horse's perspiration and accumulated hair, should be shaken out. The hair falls out easily, especially if you wait for the lining to dry. It can then be washed, either by hand or in a washing machine, according to the product's washing instructions. The lining can be washed more frequently than the outer part of the rug, which is generally thicker and takes up more space in a washing machine.

[0056] When the top part gets dirty, it can be brushed to remove dirt and any stubborn hairs. Thanks to its anti-hair coating, the top part gets dirty much less quickly and doesn't need to be washed after every use.

[0057] The kit according to the invention allows for the use of a replacement liner when the one in use is soiled or being cleaned. Thus, the rider is not dependent on the washing and drying of the saddle pad. The kit according to the invention therefore eliminates the need for several bulky saddle pads that must be alternated and washed regularly. This saves the rider time, reduces the number of washes required, and consequently conserves water and reduces the costs associated with purchasing and maintaining multiple saddle pads.

Claims

1. A saddle pad (1, 11, 21, 31) comprising at least: - a top portion (2, 12, 22, 32) comprising a cushioning layer (2B, 12B, 22B); - a lining (3, 13, 23, 33) comprising a moisture-absorbing textile; and - reversible fastening means (14, 24, 34) between the top portion (2, 12, 22, 32) and the lining (3, 13, 23, 33), arranged in corresponding positions on the top portion (2, 12, 22, 32) and on the lining (3, 13, 23, 33), characterised in that said top portion (2, 12, 22, 32) comprises an anti-hair external layer (2A, 12A, 22A).

2. The saddle pad (1, 11, 21, 31) according to claim 1, wherein the anti-hair external layer (2A, 12A, 22A) and / or the lining (3, 13, 23, 33) is a fabric comprising hydrophilic fibres.

3. The saddle pad (1, 11, 21, 31) according to either of claims 1 and 2, wherein the anti-hair external layer (2A, 12A, 22A) and / or the lining (3, 13, 23, 33) is a fabric having an area mass between 70 and 300 g / m2.

4. The saddle pad (1, 11, 21, 31) according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the anti-hair external layer (2A, 12A, 22A) and / or the lining (3, 13, 23, 33) is a fabric having a thread count per cm2 measured in accordance with ASTM D3775 and at least 30 threads per cm2.

5. The saddle pad (1, 11, 21, 31) according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the anti-hair external layer (2A, 12A, 22A) and / or the lining (3, 13, 23, 33) is a fabric whose average fibre titre is less than 40 dtex.

6. The saddle pad (1, 11, 21, 31) according to any of claims 1 to 5 comprising additionally anti-slip means (15, 25, 35) inserted between the top portion (2, 12, 22, 32) and the lining (3, 13, 23, 33).

7. The saddle pad (1, 11, 21, 31) according to claim 6, wherein the anti-slip means (15, 25, 35) are an exposed textile layer of the top portion (2, 12, 22, 32) or of the lining (3, 13, 23, 33), on which motifs in anti-slip material are printed, or an anti-slip mesh.

8. The saddle pad (1, 11, 21, 31) according to either of claims 6 and 7, wherein the anti-slip means (15, 25, 35) are associated with the top portion (2, 12, 22, 32) or with the lining (3, 13, 23, 33).

9. The saddle pad (1, 11, 21, 31) according to any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the removable fastening means (14, 24, 34) are selected from a button and a buttonhole, a hook-and-loop fastening, a Velcro® fastener, magnets, a zip fastening or a sliding fastener.

10. The saddle pad according to any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the removable fastening means (14, 24, 34) are arranged in corresponding positions on the perimeter of the top portion (2, 12, 22, 32) and on the perimeter of the lining (3, 13, 23, 33).

11. The saddle pad (1, 11, 21, 31) according to any of claims 1 to 10, wherein the lining (3, 13, 23, 33) comprises a moisture-absorbing textile, preferably a hydrophilic fabric.

12. The saddle pad (1, 11, 21, 31) according to claim 11, wherein the hydrophilic fabric of the lining (3, 13, 23, 33) comprises fibres of cotton, linen, hemp, polyester, nylon, polyamide and / or viscose.

13. A saddle pad kit (1, 11, 21, 31) comprising: - a top portion (2, 12, 22, 32) comprising a cushioning layer (2B, 12B, 22B); - several linings (3, 13, 23, 33) each comprising a moisture-absorbing textile; and - reversible fastening means (14, 24, 34) between the top portion (2, 12, 22, 32) and the linings (3, 13, 23, 33), arranged in corresponding positions on the top portion (2, 12, 22, 32) and on each lining (3, 13, 23, 33), the linings (3, 13, 23, 33) being interchangeable, characterised in that said top portion (2, 12, 22, 32) comprises an anti-hair external layer (2A, 12A, 22A).

14. Use of the saddle pad (1, 11, 21, 31) according to any of claims 1 to 12 or of the kit of claim 13, in which the user assembles the top portion (2, 12, 22, 32) with the lining (3, 13, 23, 33) using the reversible fastening means (14, 24, 34) before placing it on the back of an animal under a saddle.

15. Use of the saddle pad (1, 11, 21, 31) according to any of claims 1 to 12 or of the kit of claim 13, in which the user detaches the top portion (2, 12, 22, 32) from the lining (3, 13, 23, 33) using the reversible fastening means (14, 24, 34) after an equestrian activity.

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