Lab Information
The CTT Group of St-Hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada.

Tested Items
A 6.7 lb 100% Alpaca ThunderCloud Saddle Blanket and a 5 Star 3/4" F10 pad.

Test Information
The impact tower tests accurately simulated real-world conditions by applying impacts to a region measuring approximately 2 to 3 square inches, corresponding to the frontal area of the saddle tree bars. In this context, the saddle weighed about 42 pounds, whereas the rider's weight averaged 265 pounds. These testing conditions replicate the lateral movements typical of cutting activities or performing a sliding stop with rebounds. The following information is a detailed explanation provided by a laboratory technician at CTT Group.

Compression Deflection Test (Page 1):
The figure we're focusing on is 1.48 psi, representing the average energy needed to compress the material by 25%, compared to the 8.23 psi required by the 5 Star pad. This indicates that a ThunderCloud Saddle Blanket dissipates about six times more energy. 

Compression Set Test (Page 2):
The average Compression Set (%) for the ThunderCloud Saddle Blanket indicates that only 8.02% of its thickness is lost after 50% compression over 22 hours. Once again, the Alpaca ThunderCloud Saddle Blanket pad outperforms the 5 Star pad, which experiences a 16% loss. 

Impact TowerForce Reduction Test (Page 3):
This test highlights three aspects: the shock absorption rate, which is quite similar between both products; the deformation of the materials under impact, also largely comparable; and the energy restitution. Approximately 47% of the energy is lost through deformation, transmission within, or passing through the material, while 53% is reflected as rebound energy (protection). To precisely assess the energy transmitted to the horse, additional measurements of the impact-absorbing object are required.

During the ASTM F3189 test, the equipment applies an impact with a 20 kg (44 lb) mass launched at approximately 0.98 m/s — or about 3.5 km/h (2 miles/h).

During this impact, the maximum measured force reaches approximately 4,000 N. This is roughly equivalent to the weight of a mass of about 400 kg (882 lbs) when placed vertically on a surface. It's important to clarify that this is a maximum force applied for a very short time, and not a static load of 400 kg maintained continuously.

Note: The below images are displayed in this sequence. 1–3 are a 6.7 lb 100% Alpaca ThunderCloud. 4–6 are a 5 Star 3/4" F10 pad. These images may display differently on a phone in the sequence of ThunderCloud, 5 Star, and so on. Look at the IDENTIFICATION on each page when referencing.