How to Build the Perfect Dressage Outfit (For You and Your Horse)

Hey friends! 

Kirsi here—mobile saddle fitter, tack enthusiast, and someone who definitely owns more matchy-matchy horse sets than she probably should. One of my recent clients went all-in on dressing their new horse for dressage, and it got me thinking: building a great dressage outfit doesn’t have to be overwhelming or over-the-top.

Whether you’re entering the show ring or just love the polished look, I’m breaking it all down—starting at the top and working our way back.

This is a guide for anyone assembling their first dressage setup or just refreshing their horse setup for the season.

And yes, every piece I mention here is something I either use personally or offer in my online shop. Let’s get into it.

Start With a Great Fit

Your dressage outfit starts at the head—literally. A well-fitted bridle makes all the difference in your horse’s comfort and performance. 

I’m a big fan of the Lemieux dressage bridle—the leather is buttery soft, the design is classic, and the anatomical features make it super comfortable for the horse.

Don’t forget to add reins—sold separately so you can choose your favourite type. Whether you prefer rubber, leather, or web reins, pick the style that works best for your grip and riding feel. This is one of those core pieces of dressage equipment that really deserves attention.

Protect Those Legs

Next up: your horse’s legs. For training rides, brushing boots or exercise wraps are a must. They provide protection during lateral work or if your horse interferes.

Lemieux makes amazing sets that come in bold colours or sleek black and white, depending on whether you’re going for function or fashion.

I’ve even had clients buy a different colour for every day of the week. Not necessary, but definitely fun—and a favourite pick when buying new horse gear.

Form Meets Function

No dressage tack setup is complete without a high-quality saddle pad. Go with breathable, structured pads that won’t bunch under your saddle. I love Lemieux’s options for both their style and durability. 

Depending on your horse’s back and saddle fit, you might also need a half pad or a therapeutic pad—especially if you ride multiple horses with one saddle or need a bit of extra grip. 

We carry several styles in the shop, so feel free to reach out if you’re unsure which one is right for your horse setup. 

The Saddle (And All Its Essentials)

Now we’re at the heart of the outfit: the saddle. Hopefully, you’ve had a dressage saddle fitting done (preferably by me!) to find something that suits both you and your horse.

I work with some incredible brands—Custom Saddlery and Aviar Saddles—that allow for precision fit, customization, and performance at every level. 

But don’t stop there—your saddle setup also includes:

• A quality girth (sheepskin or leather, depending on your horse’s needs)

• Stirrup leathers and stirrup irons—I personally use safety stirrups, and I always recommend them for peace of mind and rider safety 

These components might not be flashy, but they’re essential to both safety and performance, whether you’re riding dressage or setting up your jumper gear for cross-discipline work.

Accessories for You and Your Horse

Want to take your dressage outfit to the next level? Match your horse’s gear with your own. Lemieux makes beautiful ear bonnets and matching rider wear, from saddle pads to base layers. This ear bonnet  is my current fav. How cute! 

Whether you’re into timeless black and white or want to go full teal-on-teal, we’ve got options in the shop!

Final Thoughts on the Perfect Dressage Outfit

Outfitting your dressage horse is about more than just looking good—it’s about comfort, function, and creating a setup that helps you both ride your best.

Whether you're building your first dressage equipment collection or just need a refresh, I’ve got you covered.

If you’re not sure where to start, need help choosing between gear options, or want to schedule a mobile saddle fitting in Canada, I’m always here to help.

Check out the shop to grab the pieces mentioned here, or shoot me a message for personalized recommendations. Happy riding!