Dressage Girths

A dressage girth is an essential piece of tack when using a dressage saddle, designed specifically to work with longer billets for a more secure and close-contact fit. These shorter girths help maintain saddle stability while allowing your horse freedom of movement – something that’s vital for balance, engagement, and comfort in flatwork.

Whether you’re training at home or stepping into the competition arena, choosing the right girth will enhance performance and support your horse’s wellbeing. Dressage girths come in a variety of shapes, materials and designs to suit different horse conformations and rider preferences.

Types of Dressage Girths

There’s a variety of dressage girths available, each designed with specific benefits and horse types in mind. Popular materials include:

• Leather girths – A smart and traditional choice, ideal for competing and offering long-term durability.

• Synthetic and neoprene girths – Easy to clean, lightweight and perfect for everyday training.

• Memory foam and gel girths – Offer superior pressure relief and mould to your horse’s shape for a custom fit.

• Sheepskin or fleece-lined girths – Provide a soft, protective layer, reducing the risk of rubs and pressure sores.

For horses with sensitive skin, we also recommend using a girth sleeve for added cushioning and protection.

Many dressage girths feature added extras such as D-rings for training aid attachments, elasticated ends for flexibility, and contoured shaping for improved pressure distribution.

Benefits of Anatomical Dressage Girths

An anatomical dressage girth is ergonomically shaped to follow the natural curves of your horse’s body. This design helps prevent pinching behind the elbows and relieves pressure across the sternum, making it ideal for horses with a forward girth groove, large shoulders or sensitivity in the girth area.

These girths are particularly beneficial for horses working in higher-level schooling, where full range of motion is crucial. When paired with a correctly fitted saddle, an anatomical girth promotes a more balanced and comfortable ride for both horse and rider.

How to Choose the Best Dressage Girth

Choosing the right dressage girth is about more than just size – comfort, performance, and saddle stability all play a role. Here's what to consider:

• Fit and size: Dressage girths typically range from 45cm to 80cm. Measure from the lower billet hole on one side of your saddle, under your horse's belly, to the same point on the other side. The girth should sit clear of the elbows and hold the saddle in place without over-tightening.

• Material: Consider your riding routine. For competition, opt for classic leather. For daily use, synthetics are practical and affordable.

• Horse comfort: For horses prone to rubbing or pressure sensitivity, look for padding, anatomical shaping, or use a sheepskin girth sleeve for extra comfort.

• Functionality: Girths with D-rings or central buckles can be helpful when using martingales or breastplates for added control or saddle security.

Cleaning & Caring for Your Dressage Girth

Regular maintenance ensures your girth remains safe and comfortable. Leather dressage girths benefit from regular cleaning and occasional conditioning to maintain softness and durability. Synthetic designs, such as neoprene or the LeMieux gel girths, can be wiped down as needed.

If using a sheepskin cover, wash it regularly to prevent sweat build-up. Girth sleeves can also be replaced when worn to maintain comfort and hygiene.

Shop Dressage Girths Online

This collection includes a variety of dressage girths suitable for everyday schooling through to competition use, with options designed to support different horse shapes, disciplines and rider preferences.

Explore our collection of dressage girths, including anatomical designs and the popular LeMieux dressage girth, to find the perfect fit for your horse. Whether you're working towards Prelim tests or schooling at home, the right girth can improve your horse’s comfort and performance.