Product Overview
The LeMieux Suede Close Contact Square Gooseberry is a close contact jumping saddle pad designed for forward-cut saddles, featuring a high-wither cut and swept-back profile for clear wither and shoulder freedom. It suits horse and pony owners looking for a smart, practical pad that supports everyday schooling, jumping and hacking. The suede-effect Blackberry upper and rectangular quilt pattern provide a neat, stable surface under the saddle for consistent contact.
Key Features
› High-wither cut and swept-back profile that help maintain clearance and a secure close contact fit under forward-cut jumping saddles.
› Suede-effect polyester upper that offers everyday durability with a smart Blackberry finish for training and competition use.
› Breathable natural bamboo blend lining that helps manage sweat and moisture during schooling and jumping sessions.
› Matte PU leather girth protection area with hidden girth keepers that supports neat girthing and reduces wear in high-friction zones.
› Soft, contoured, friction-free binding and athletic rectangular quilt pattern that help the pad lie flat and minimise bulk beneath the saddle.
› Elasticated shaped D-ring tabs and streamlined attachment points that provide non-slip saddle security while leaving space for training aids.
Performance & Use Notes
This pad is built to sit neatly under forward-cut close contact saddles, helping maintain a consistent feel between horse and rider. The high-wither cut and swept-back shape support clearance and stability, while the bamboo blend lining works to control sweat and reduce friction during schooling, jumping and everyday riding.
Why Riders Choose This
› Forward-cut close contact shape that suits modern jumping saddles used for schooling, training and competition.
› Bamboo blend lining that supports moisture control for horses working in varied conditions and session lengths.
› Durable PU leather girth guard and hidden girth keepers that help maintain a tidy girth area over time.
› Elasticated D-ring tabs that offer a secure attachment while accommodating additional training aids when required.
› Coordinates with the wider LeMieux collection for matchy‑matchy sets.
Fit & Sizing Guidance
The LeMieux Suede Close Contact Square Blackberry is available in X-Small, Small/Medium and Large to suit a range of horses and ponies. X-Small typically suits smaller ponies and compact close contact saddles, Small/Medium suits horses around 13hh–14.2hh with saddles up to approximately 16", and Large suits horses from around 14.3hh upwards with saddles from approximately 16.5" and above. Always check the pad length and drop against your saddle and horse to ensure the square sits clear of the shoulder and does not extend beyond the saddle panels.
Care Instructions
Machine wash on a normal 30-degree cycle, ideally in a wash bag to protect the pad and your machine. Close all hook-and-loop fastenings before washing, and pull the pad into shape while damp to help maintain its profile during drying. Ensure the washing machine drum is large enough for the pad size, and air dry away from direct heat sources; do not tumble dry.
Heritage
Selected with genuine saddlery expertise to offer a practical close contact jumping pad that aligns with modern UK riding needs and everyday yard use.
Design Notes
This close contact square features a forward-cut profile tailored to jumping saddles, with a high-wither cut and swept-back rear edge to support clearance and stability. The athletic rectangular quilt pattern supports even contact under the saddle, while the coordinated Blackberry colour details and spine tape create a tidy, streamlined look. Hidden girth keepers and elasticated D-ring tabs are positioned to keep the pad secure without adding unnecessary bulk.
Materials
The outer is a suede-effect 100% polyester fabric designed for everyday durability and easy care. The lining is a natural bamboo blend, approximately 60% bamboo and 40% polyester, chosen for its breathable, sweat-wicking and quick-drying behaviour. A matte PU leather girth protection area reinforces the girth zone, while soft, friction-free binding and streamlined attachment components complete the construction.
Who This Is For
This pad suits riders using forward-cut close contact jumping saddles for everyday schooling, gridwork, jumping lessons and general arena work. It performs well in typical UK mixed-weather conditions when paired with appropriate rugs and tack, offering a practical interface under the saddle for horses and ponies in regular training.
Typical User Profile
The typical user is a leisure or competition rider who schools and jumps regularly, often looking to coordinate saddle pads with other LeMieux accessories. Everyday horse owners, pony riders and hacking riders using close contact saddles will find the shape and features suited to routine training, lessons and low-level competition.
Closing Notes
The LeMieux Suede Close Contact Square offers a structured, forward-cut close contact pad in a coordinated Blackberry colourway for everyday schooling and jumping.
Technical Feature Summary
› Forward-cut close contact profile
› High-wither shaping
› Swept-back rear edge
› Suede-effect polyester outer
› Bamboo-blend lining
› Rectangular quilt structure
› PU leather girth reinforcement
› Hidden girth keepers
› Elasticated D-ring tabs
› Streamlined attachment layout