Table of Contents
What is a Western girth called?
A girth, sometimes called a cinch (Western riding), is a piece of equipment used to keep the saddle in place on a horse or other animal. It passes under the barrel of the equine, usually attached to the saddle on both sides by two or three leather straps called billets.
What is the Best Western girth?
Sizing. Western cinches are typically sized in 2-inch increments, between 26 and 34 inches. To measure, place an unrigged saddle on your horse’s back. With the help of a friend, place a soft measuring tape beneath the girth area to measure between the saddle’s dee rings.
What side of the saddle does the elastic on a girth go?
left side
You’ll want to attach the left side of your girth or the elastic end to the left side of your saddle. On this side, tighten the girth considerably; however, always make sure that your buckles are always on the sale holes of the first and third billet.
How should a Western girth fit?
The girth shouldn’t feel too tight, but tight enough that the saddle won’t shift while riding. When checking, make sure there’s enough space to fit three to four fingers between the girth and your horse.
How do I know what size cinch my horse needs?
How to determine your cinch size: Measure your horse from the center of the underside of his chest in the girth area. Bring the tape up to just below the widest part of his ribcage (about 4″ above and behind the elbow). Multiply this measurement by two and you will have a good idea of what size cinch your horse needs.
Where should a Western girth sit on a horse?
The lowest point your cinch should sit is 3-4″ above the elbow. This allows clearance and no interference when riding. The best way to get an accurate cinch size is to take a string and hold it on one side 3-4″ above the elbow. Then you run it under the horse, to the same point on the other side.
What size Western girth do I need?
Sample Girth Sizing Chart
| Horse Height | Western | English |
|---|---|---|
| 13H to 14H (Small Horse) | 30 | 38-40 |
| 14H to 15H (Small Horse) | 30-32 | 42-44 |
| 15H TO 16H (Medium Horse) | 32-34 | 46-48 |
| 16H to 17H (Large Horse) | 36 | 50-52 |
Why does my western saddle slide back?
Saddle fit and girth type are likely to be the main causes for your saddle sliding back when riding. It is more likely the saddle is too wide rather than too narrow for it to slide back.
How tight should western girth be?
If you ride English, you probably say girth, and if you ride in a western saddle, you say cinch. The cinch needs to be tight enough to allow you to mount and dismount without the saddle shifting.
How long should a Western cinch be?
between 26 and 34 inches long
Western cinch sizing typically comes in 2-inch increments, ranging between 26 and 34 inches long. It’s extremely important to use the correct size cinch: if it is too short, your horse can get abrasions. If it’s too long, it will hold the saddle in place, but there will be excess material under your leg.