The "need" for a pad on a shotgun sling depends on what you are wearing. If, for example, you are hunting in cool/cold weather and wearing long underwear, a thick and warm shirt, and an insulated vest or hunting coat, a padded sling is unnecessary. I've hunted deer in Iowa in December for many years with a shotgun and have never needed a padded sling. I have, however, always used a thin, small, adjustable sling which has been perfect.