Abstract: The combination of a mat and a saddle, the mat comprising a non-stiffened layer of foamed polyvinylchloride having a first and a second face, at least one of the first and said second faces having a smooth surface, and the smooth surface being remote from the saddle on installation of the mat and the saddle on the back of an animal whereby the mat forms a saddle-cloth and the smooth surface is in frictional engagement with the animal's back and prevents substantial slipping of the saddle on the animal's back. The combination of a mat and a shin pad for use on a leg of a person is also disclosed.