Leather Studguard Girth "Hickstead"

Reliable with every take-off

Features and characteristics:
 

Optimally shaped for dynamic movement

• Anatomical fit

Durably crafted for intensive use

• Soft genuine leather
• Extra padding
• Handcrafted
• Easy care
• Roller buckles
• Rustproof stainless steel fittings
• Elastic inserts

Well thought-out details for versatile use

• With D-rings for auxiliary reins
• With snap hook

Ideal for:

• Show jumping and intensive training where the sensitive belly area of the horse should be protected from studs and horseshoes
• Horses with a sensitive girth area that require especially soft padding and an anatomically shaped girth
• Horses that benefit from a stable, pressure-relieving girth position during movement, jumps, and quick turns
• Training with auxiliary reins or additional equipment that needs to be securely attached to the girth
   

The belly guard girth was specially developed for horses that require reliable protection in the sensitive belly area during jumping and daily training. The wide belly guard protects the horse from horseshoes and stud injuries when the front legs are drawn tightly towards the body during a jump. At the same time, the anatomical shape ensures that the girth adapts perfectly to the natural body line of your horse. This distributes pressure evenly and maintains shoulder freedom. The high-quality genuine leather lies pleasantly soft against the skin and is complemented by additional padding that reduces chafing and significantly increases comfort. In combination with elastic inserts and sturdy stainless steel fittings, this creates a durable saddle girth that performs reliably both in daily training and in competition. Practical details such as D-rings and an integrated snap hook allow additional equipment to be easily attached, making the belly guard girth not only protective but also highly functional for everyday equestrian use.

• Anatomical fit – more freedom of movement for your horse: The belly guard girth is shaped to perfectly match the natural body line of the horse. This ensures sufficient space in the shoulder area for free movement of the front legs while keeping the girth securely in position. This anatomical shape reduces pressure points in the sensitive girth area and allows your horse to move freely and comfortably even during intensive training sessions or jumping.

• Soft genuine leather – proven in everyday equestrian use: High-quality genuine leather adapts perfectly to the horse’s shape while remaining pleasantly soft. This allows the stud girth to lie gently against the skin and reduces the risk of chafing. At the same time, leather is particularly durable and retains its shape and stability even with regular use.

• Extra padding – noticeable relief for the girth area: The additional padding ensures that pressure from the girth is evenly distributed. Sensitive areas are protected and your horse remains comfortable even during longer training sessions. At the same time, the padding enhances the protective function of the belly guard against studs and especially horseshoes.

• Handcrafted – precise workmanship for highest demands: Each stud girth is carefully handcrafted. This precise workmanship ensures clean seams, stable transitions, and overall high quality. The result is a durable protective girth that remains reliable even with intensive use in equestrian sports.

• Easy care – quickly ready for use again: The high-quality leather is easy to clean and maintain. With proper leather care, the girth remains supple and retains its high-quality appearance over time. This makes it ideal for daily use in the stable.

• Roller buckles – easy and even tightening: The sturdy roller buckles make tightening much easier. The integrated roller allows the billet straps to glide more easily through the buckle, requiring less force. This ensures even adjustment and also protects the leather of the straps.

• Rustproof stainless steel fittings – durable and reliable: The high-quality stainless steel fittings are especially robust and resistant to moisture and sweat. This ensures the girth remains stable and reliable even with regular use, without the fittings rusting or losing functionality.

• Elastic inserts – supports natural movement: The elastic inserts allow the girth to adapt to the horse’s breathing and movement. This reduces pressure on the chest while keeping the saddle securely in place.

• With D-rings for auxiliary reins – flexible in training: The integrated D-rings allow easy attachment of auxiliary reins or additional training equipment such as breastplates. This makes the girth versatile and supports different training methods.

• With snap hook – quickly attached with one hand: The integrated snap hook allows quick and secure attachment of auxiliary reins or breastplates. Additional equipment can be easily attached or removed without the need for separate straps.

Did you know… belly guard or stud girths are used in show jumping to protect the sensitive belly area of the horse from injuries caused by horseshoes and studs. During take-off, horses pull their front legs tightly under their body, which can cause the studs to come into contact with the belly. The wide belly guard acts as a protective surface and significantly reduces the risk of injury.

FAQ about the belly guard girth:

Comfort

• Why use a belly guard girth for show jumping?
  The wide belly guard protects the horse’s belly area from horseshoes and stud injuries that can occur during take-off or over a jump. At the same time, the larger surface distributes pressure more evenly than a narrow girth.

• Is a belly guard girth suitable for daily training?
  Yes. Many riders use belly guard or stud girths not only in the course but also in daily training, as they provide additional protection and a stable girth position.

• What is the difference between a regular girth and a stud girth?
  A regular girth is usually narrower and primarily serves to secure the saddle. A stud girth additionally features a wide belly guard. This protects the horse’s belly from horseshoes and studs while also distributing pressure over a larger surface, which can be more comfortable for many horses.

• Is a belly guard girth only suitable for jumping horses?
  It is most commonly used in show jumping. However, it can also be used in daily training when additional protection or a more stable girth position is desired. Many riders also use it for young horses or horses with a sensitive girth area.

• How tight should a stud girth be?
  The girth should be tight enough to keep the saddle stable but not so tight that it causes pressure or discomfort. There should be about two fingers’ space between the girth and the horse. It is also important to tighten evenly on both sides. Elastic inserts provide an additional advantage, making tightening easier and allowing the girth to adapt to the horse’s breathing and movement.

• What length should a belly guard girth be?
  The length depends on the saddle and the horse’s conformation. The buckles should sit above the elbows if possible to prevent rubbing.

Material

• Why is genuine leather used for girths?
  Genuine leather is particularly durable, adapts to the horse’s shape, and remains supple for many years with proper care. This ensures a comfortable contact with the horse’s skin.

• How do I properly care for a leather belly guard girth?
  The girth should be regularly cleaned of sweat and dirt and then treated with leather care products. This keeps the leather soft, flexible, and durable.

Function

• What are the D-rings on the stud girth for?
  Auxiliary reins or training aids can be attached to the D-rings. This allows the girth to be flexibly adapted to different training situations.

• What is the snap hook on the belly guard girth used for?
  The snap hook allows quick attachment of martingales or other additional straps. This makes it easy to securely fix extra equipment without needing separate attachment points.

Safety information