CSI Saddlepads Recall Information

CSI Saddlepads is issuing a recall on a series of our CSI Flex-Plate Saddlepad inserts manufactured from March 5, 2009 to August 1, 2009. During this time a supplier of ours substituted material for our PVC foam. Although this material looks and manufactures very similar to our original PVC foam, it was inferior in quality and substance. This product was substituted without our knowledge or consent.

If you purchased a CSI Flex-Plate with a foam or foam/felt combination insert or a replacement foam or foam/felt combination insert during the months of March, April, May, June or July, your pad MAY be affected by this recall. As mentioned, the material looks, feels, and behaves similarly to our original product. Differences, however, can be noted in the grain of the material as well as in the durability and “gripability” of the product. Faulty inserts will have a straight horizontal grain to the skin side layer (the side that does not go next to the horse). See the photos below for comparison. In addition, customers have told us that faulty pads are not nearly as durable and have a tendency to slip or move under saddle. This may cause danger to the rider and it is our recommendation that if you have one of these pads that you discontinue riding it immediately and call us to have a replacement insert shipped to you at no cost.

As soon as we discovered the issue with the faulty material, we discontinued use of it in our manufacturing, went to another supplier to supply us with PVC foam with specs exact to our needs. We also began product testing on the faulty material to determine the extent of the inferiority. During this testing we did find the product was not as durable as our original product and the ability of the pad to "grip" was questionable. After two months of testing at a performance horse facility and ranch riding as well as through feedback from customers, we feel that this product is too inferior for our customers to use and may even pose a danger to riders.

Again, we recommend that you immediately discontinue use of any insert you identify as being made of this faulty foam and call us for a replacement. We can be reached at 816.773.6215 or 816.862.6510.

 

 

Download an enlargeable PDF of the above graphics. (click grayed link)

Examine your insert from the non-horse side to determine the type of foam.

If your foam insert has a linear grain to it, it is probably the inferior foam and needs to be replaced. If it looks like wrinkly elephant skin, it is our Specification Foam and is perfectly good. Inferior foam also tears easily and shows wear quickly. In addition it is prone to slippage. If you have a defective insert, please call us at 816 773 6215 or 816 862 6510 for a return tag and a replacement insert.

This recall only affects foam and foam felt pads and replacement inserts purchased from 3/5/09 to 8/1/09. If you purchased your pad at any other time, your insert is made from Specification Foam and does not need to be replaced.