Leather Studguard Girth "Hickstead"

Comfort

• Anatomical fit

Material

• Soft genuine leather
• Extra padding
• Handmade
• Easy care
• Roller buckles
• Rust-proof stainless steel fittings
• Elastic inserts

Function

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

• Show jumping and intensive training where the horse's sensitive belly area needs to be protected from studs and shoes
• Horses with a sensitive girth area that require a particularly softly padded and anatomically shaped girth
• Horses that benefit from a stable, pressure-relieving girth position during movement, jumping, and quick turns
• Training with draw reins or additional equipment that must be securely attached to the girth

Stud girths or belly guards are used in show jumping to protect the horse's sensitive belly area from injuries caused by horseshoes and studs. When jumping, horses pull their front legs very close to their bodies, which can cause the studs on their shoes to touch their belly. The wide belly guard acts as a protective surface and significantly reduces the risk of injury.

Why is a stud girth used in show jumping?

The broad protective plate protects the horse's belly area from injuries caused by horseshoes and studs that can occur during takeoff or while over the jump. At the same time, the large surface area distributes pressure more evenly than a narrow girth.

Is a stud girth also suitable for daily training?

Yes. Many riders use stud girths or belly protection girths not only in the jumping arena but also in daily training, as they provide additional protection and a stable girth position.

What is the difference between a normal girth and a stud girth?

A standard girth is usually narrower and is mainly used to secure the saddle. A stud girth features an additional broad protective plate. This protects the horse's belly from horseshoes and studs while simultaneously distributing pressure over a larger surface area, which can be more comfortable for many horses.

Is a stud girth only suitable for show jumpers?

A stud girth is most commonly used in show jumping. However, it can also be used in daily training if 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 the girth evenly on both sides. Elastic inserts offer an additional advantage here. They make tightening easier and allow the girth to easily adapt to the horse's breathing and movement.

What length should a stud girth be?

The length depends on the saddle and the horse's conformation. The buckles should be positioned as far above the elbows as possible so that they do not chafe.

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 creates a comfortable contact with the horse's skin.

How do I properly care for a leather stud girth?

The girth should be regularly cleaned of sweat and dirt and subsequently treated with leather care products. This keeps the leather soft, flexible, and durable.

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 stud girth to be flexibly adapted to different training situations.

What is the snap hook on the stud girth used for?

The snap hook allows for the quick attachment of martingales or other auxiliary straps. This way, additional equipment can be securely fastened without the need for separate attachment points.

• Use only as intended as a girth for securing the saddle to the horse.
• Check for damage, cracks, material fatigue, loose seams, or defective buckles before each use.
• The girth must not be used further if there is visible damage or excessive wear.
• Check fit and positioning regularly to avoid pressure points or chafing.
• Do not overtighten – sufficient freedom of movement for the rib cage must be ensured.
• Clean and condition leather regularly to prevent drying out and material breakage.
• Use only suitable leather care products; do not use harsh cleaning agents, oils, or solvents.
• Allow wet leather to dry slowly at room temperature – not on radiators or in direct sunlight.
• Do not store near open flames or strong heat sources.
• Do not alter or repair the product yourself (e.g., rivets, holes, seams).
• Replace damaged or deformed metal parts (e.g., buckles, eyelets, rings) immediately.