Innovative Equestrian Pads

C*Tac is an amazing brand founded in Portugal by an Osteopath rider. Their equestrian pads are designed for both the horse and rider, providing a smoother, more consistent feel and communication.

The choice of pad density accommodates the rider's weight and the horse's back condition, ensuring a perfect fit and clearance over the withers.

Discover the ultimate in equestrian comfort and performance with C*Tac.

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  • Meet the Founder

    I’m Vanessa, an osteopath specialized in pediatric osteopathy, with a deep passion for helping people feel free, comfortable, and supported in their movement. But long before that, my first love was for horses. They’ve brought me connection, growth, and joy throughout my life – and it’s from this lifelong bond that C*Tac was born.
    Blending medical insight with riding experience, I created the C*Tac Back Protector Pad to support both horse and rider, without compromise. I am proud to share the comfort and connection that C*Tac provides for riders and their horses.

  • My Dilemma

    I always had a dilemma when riding: What back protector to use? Thin gels provided me with contact, but they were not comfortable on my back, and some horses with more challenging backs found the gel not giving enough support. When I tried thicker pads, I felt very disconnected from my horse.

    So I had an idea! Making my own back pad protector, and it’s been an amazing adventure for me, outside my comfort zone, but so gratifying to see the reaction of the riders and the changes in stride in the horses almost instantly.

  • The Solution

    Every detail of the C*Tac Back Protector Pad was designed with purpose. From pressure-relieving synthetic foam and EPDM core, to removable and washable covers – this is not just another saddle pad.

    We’re proud to offer the only back protector with machine-washable covers and a choice of textures, densities and colours. 

    Whether you’re competing or training at home, C*Tac offers consistent performance and total freedom of movement – every step of the way.

    We wish you a great ride🌟
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Real People, Real Experiences

The C*Tac back protector has brought new meaning to the word comfort. Balanced and comfortable is how I feel when I ride my horses. The simple and practical design easily fits all saddles and the feeling of contact with the horse’s back is constant. The many features of the C*Tac back protector culminate in well-being for both rider and horse. 🙌🏼🌟👌🏼

Rita Ralão Duarte

Portuguese Dressage Rider in Paris Olympic Games

Tested and approved!

As a rider and equine osteopath, I've seen the difference in suppleness in the back with C.TAC, this Pad hugs the horse's back and the saddle providing good back protection with even distribution of the rider's weight (compared to gel). It also makes it easier to fit saddles on horses' backs and this new system gives great contact and optimum comfort for the rider and the horse's back 👍✨🙏🏻

Sharone Villaret

French Equine Osteopath

A very clever design, which accommodates as well horses with more protruding withers where are you often need a saddle pad that gives some support on the sides of the withers without adding pressure in the middle 👍

Dr. João Paulo Marques

Member of Equine Physiotherapy Therapy team in Tokyo Olympics, and leader of the Equine Physiotherapy Team in Paris Olympics