Acavallo Gel Pads, Stirrups & Horse Tack

Italian craftsmanship and a genuine focus on horse welfare sit at the centre of everything Acavallo makes. Founded in 2003 and present in over 50 countries, the brand has built a serious following among both professional riders and everyday horse owners who want equipment that genuinely does what it claims. The Acavallo range at The Vet Shed covers gel pads, risers, safety stirrups, bits and protective accessories, all made in Italy to a standard trusted at the highest levels of the sport.

What Makes Acavallo Different

The brand's point of difference starts with its therapeutic gel, a material originally developed for use in healthcare before being adapted for equestrian applications. It is lightweight, shock-absorbing, antibacterial, non-toxic and hypoallergenic, and it stays grippy even after washing. When used in saddle pads and risers, it distributes pressure more evenly across the horse's back than conventional foam or felt materials, making it useful for horses with saddle fit challenges, back sensitivity or horses building topline through a training programme.

Every Acavallo product is designed and manufactured in Italy using Italian-sourced materials. That matters because it gives the brand full control over quality at every step, and it shows in the finished product. The range is used and recommended by some of the world's best riders including Olympic dressage champion Charlotte Dujardin and showjumper Scott Brash.

Gel Pads and Risers

The gel pad range is the core of the Acavallo offering and covers a variety of configurations to suit different saddles, horses and riding goals.

• Acavallo Therapeutic Soft Gel Pad - The foundational gel pad, used directly on the horse's back under the saddle for shock absorption and even pressure distribution
• Acavallo Anatomic Gel Pad - A shaped variant that follows the horse's anatomy more closely, suited to horses with more defined back conformation
• Acavallo Air Release Soft Gel Saddle Pad - Features air release channels to improve airflow and reduce heat build-up under the saddle during work
• Acavallo Active Pony Soft Gel Pad - The same therapeutic gel technology in a size designed for ponies
• Acavallo Lightweight Anti-Slip Gel Pad - A thinner, lighter option focused on grip and stability rather than significant lift or correction
• Acavallo Therapy Half Gel Pad with Sheepskin Edge - Combines gel cushioning with a sheepskin-edged finish for added comfort and a traditional aesthetic
• Acavallo Gel Pad with Front Riser - Gel pad with a built-in front riser to lift the pommel area, useful when a saddle sits low at the front
• Acavallo Gel Pad with Mid Riser - Lifts through the middle of the pad to address bridging or central pressure points
• Acavallo Gel Pad with Rear Riser Black and Transparent - Lifts the cantle area for saddles that sit low at the back
• Acavallo Gel Front Riser Pad - A standalone front riser without the full pad, for use with an existing pad
• Acavallo Shaped Gel Front Riser Alternate Transparent - An alternate shaped version of the front riser with a different profile to suit varying saddle geometries

Stirrups

• Acavallo Arena Alupro Safety Stirrups - Lightweight aluminium safety stirrups with a release mechanism that opens under pressure, reducing the risk of a foot becoming caught in the event of a fall. A practical safety upgrade for any rider
• Acavallo Arco Flexia S Stirrups - A more flexible stirrup design that reduces the rigidity typically felt through the ankle and knee, suitable for riders managing joint discomfort or looking for a more forgiving ride
• Acavallo Opera Stirrups - A classic aluminium stirrup with a wide tread for stability and a clean aesthetic. Also available at a clearance price while stock lasts

Bits and Accessories

• Acavallo Sensitive Bit 135mm - Designed for horses with mouth sensitivity, offering a softer contact than a conventional bit
• Acavallo Gel Bit Guards - Gel guards that protect the corners of the mouth from bit rubs and pinching
• Acavallo Gel Chain Guard - A gel sleeve for curb chains to soften contact and reduce the risk of chafing on the chin groove

Why Buy Acavallo at The Vet Shed

The Vet Shed stocks a number of Acavallo products across the gel pad, stirrup and tack categories, with savings of up to 25% off RRP on selected lines. We ship fast across Australia from our local warehouse, so you are not waiting on international freight for quality Italian equestrian equipment. Whether you are addressing a saddle fit issue, upgrading to safety stirrups or protecting a sensitive mouth, the Acavallo range gives you genuinely effective options backed by a brand with a strong track record at all levels of the sport.

FAQs About Acavallo