I'm not one of the latest gimmick but when I borrowed my friend's Prestige girth with the big "donut" cushion, much of my horse's grouchiness when being girthed up disappeared. He has always been grumpy when the girth first touches him (even after check and treatment for ulcers, back soreness, saddle fit, etc). I think the way this girth distributes the pressure, protecting the sternum and sensitive nerves makes him very happy. This is his favorite girth ever.

I tried a friends a couple of times and found my horse happier to do what I asked. He in general felt more relaxed so I bought my own. He has continued to be happy in the girth over the last month. I have loaned it to another girl friend of mine and she now borrows mine whenever possible. Her feedback was the same - her horse was "less balky". Highly recommend. It is expensive but I was able to find a used one after looking for a couple of weeks and it works great. It does look clumsy with that thick wad under the girth but the relaxation and performance I get with it make it worth the strange appearance.