Introducing the NEW E.A. Mattes GOLD Collection. E.A. Mattes GOLD pads are made from the same design and high quality materials as the sheepskin pads. Instead of a full sheepskin panel, the GOLD pads are made with high loft, dense, 1 1/4" long wool on a fabric backing. The front and rear trim is sheepskin which allows the GOLD collection to enjoy all the colors of the Couture Collection. Should Couture Collection Colors be desired, the sheepskin trim will be in the selected color while the panels (underside) will be a natural wool color. Melp is still recommended since the GOLD collection pads are still made partially with sheepskin. E.A. Mattes pads are designed to be form fitting and to endur the rigors of riding and cleaning. The topline of the pad incorporates a high wither with an anatomically correct curvature. The pommel area of the pad is overlapped with sheepskin to ensure the pad does not shift or slide. There is no sheepskin over the spine to keep pressure off this area where it belongs.