Saddle Girth: Secure Hold for the Saddle Without Pinching the Elbow

Saddle Girth: firm enough, never too tight

The saddle girth connects the saddle to the horse and stops it slipping while you ride. Here you will find long girths for jumping and general purpose saddles as well as short girths for dressage saddles with long girth straps. The range covers string girths, anatomic leather girths and models lined with teddy fleece or neoprene for sensitive horses.

Choosing shape and material

Many horses move more freely in an anatomically shaped girth. The curved cut leaves more room behind the elbow and stops the girth creeping forward. For round-bellied horses there are curved long girths designed for exactly that shape. Elastic inserts give a little as the horse breathes. Leather is durable and comfortable, while neoprene and synthetic materials are quickly hosed off. Fleece or wool linings cushion sensitive skin but need regular cleaning.

Finding the right length

The length depends on the saddle. With a long girth, the buckles on both sides should sit roughly level with the saddle flap, so you still have a few holes left to tighten. With a short girth, the buckles sit below the saddle flap so they do not get in the way of your leg. The easiest way is to measure your old, well-fitting girth from buckle end to buckle end. A girth extender helps if your horse carries a little more condition in winter.

Frequently asked questions

How tight should the girth be?
Tight enough that the saddle does not slip when you mount, but loose enough to slide a flat hand underneath. Tighten slowly and in stages, for example after leading your horse a few steps and again after warming up.

Why is my horse girthy?
Often it has had bad experiences with being girthed up too quickly or too tightly. Sometimes pain, a pinching saddle or stomach problems are behind it. Girth up calmly and gradually, and if the reluctance persists, ask a saddle fitter and your vet to take a look.

Does an anatomic girth make sense for every horse?
For many horses yes, especially if a straight girth slides forward or rubs at the elbow. What matters is that the shape suits your horse's girth groove. Try it and see whether your horse moves more freely.