LeMieux Arika Contoured Dressage Girth

Tighten the girth in a few steps and take up the same number of holes on each side, so the D-ring stays centred under the chest. That way any training aids hang evenly on both sides. Draw reins are best used only if you have experience with them or under the guidance of your trainer.

After riding, wipe the leather with lukewarm water and saddle soap and let it air dry. When you give it a thorough clean, feed it with leather balm or oil to keep it supple. Store the girth somewhere cool, clean and dry.

Choose the Arika Contoured Dressage Girth if you have a dressage saddle with long girth straps, like a simple leather girth and want a D-ring for training aids. It suits everyday schooling as well as a smart competition turnout.

If you want leather with gel along the leading edge, choose the LeMieux Gel-Tek Anatomic Dressage Girth. If you have a mono flap saddle and want a clip for a breastplate or martingale, the LeMieux Gel-Tek Anatomic Mono Girth is a better match. Prefer a girth with a soft fur lining that can go in the washing machine? Then the LeMieux Integrated Dressage Girth fits better.

Buckle the girth on both sides to the long girth straps of your dressage saddle and tighten gradually and evenly. Attach training aids to the D-ring in the centre. After use, wipe the leather with lukewarm water and saddle soap, let it air dry and give it leather balm or oil now and then.

Is the Arika real leather?
Yes. LeMieux describes the Arika Contoured Dressage Girth as a girth made from soft, supple leather.

Can I attach training aids?
Yes, there is a D-ring in the centre for training aids.

Does the girth have elastic?
The straps are slightly elasticated. LeMieux does not state whether that is on one side or on both.

Is there gel or memory foam inside?
LeMieux does not list gel or padding. If you want gel, look at the LeMieux Gel-Tek Anatomic Dressage Girth.

What does contoured mean?
Shaped: the girth follows a curved line instead of running straight, so it follows the shape of the girth area more closely.

How do I choose the right length?
LeMieux does not state how the length is measured. Measure your current girth from buckle to buckle and compare, or ask for advice in store.

How do I look after the girth?
With lukewarm water and saddle soap, let it air dry and feed it now and then with leather balm or oil. Not for the washing machine.

• Contoured leather dressage girth from LeMieux.
• Soft, supple leather that comes pre-oiled.
• D-ring in the centre for training aids.
• Slightly elasticated straps.
• No gel or separate lining listed.
• In black, from 55 cm to 70 cm.
• Care with saddle soap and leather balm or oil.