The Western world calls it a cinch and the other parts of the world call it a horse girth. It is an implement that holds the saddle of a horse in place. It goes around the belly of the horse and is kept fixed to the saddle from both the sides. There are three billets to keep it in place. You should check the size and the support system of the girth and then buy accordingly. 

Horse girths are generally used on English and Australian saddles. The western saddles and pack saddles make use of a cinch. The difference between the two is minor. The cinch has one broad strap on each side to fix the saddle while the girth has three thin straps on each side. The right girth should be purchased so that the saddle can be kept in place. There are two or three leather straps that are called billets and they are attached to the saddle on both sides. 

Function Of A Girth 

The primary function of a horse girth is to keep the saddle attached to the horse by buckles that are known as billets. They go right round the entire underbody of the horse and are tied to the saddle tree. 

Different Types Of Horse Girths 

The horse girth should be in accordance with the saddle. Saddles being of primarily of two types – namely the dressage saddle and the general-purpose saddle have girths that go with each type. The dressage saddle horse girth has extra long billets that do not come in contact with the leg aids and cause a hindrance. The girth has to be very short. 

For the general purpose saddle, the billets straps are very short and do not go beyond further than the saddle flaps. On the horse girth here is very long. 

The Most Vital Feature Of A Girth 

The most vital feature of a horse girth is the material that it is made from. Any little wear or tear in it should be immediately looked into. Also, when the right girths protect the horses from a host of skin diseases. 

At the same time, it should be comfortable on the horse. The horse should not feel pinched with the horse girth. If it is otherwise the horse will have girth galls that are painful for the horse. 

When Should A Girth Be Used? 

A girth is just sufficient enough when the horse is in a normal riding position. But when the horse is going into some sort of competition or when it is playing polo or even when the horse is climbing steep places, then just a horse girth might not be enough. It is then necessary to fit the horse with a crupper. They help the saddle from moving in front and back positions. But you need to make sure, when you use the girth, it should not pinch the horse anywhere on the skin. 

Appropriate Girths For Horses 

Horse girths are just about the most important thing about horse riding and its accessories. So, they should be made of strong material like leather. And if the leather is of good quality, then it can last a long time with cleaning and repair work on it. Only a qualified saddler will be able to detect the right girths that will be of use. But the synthetic girth will wear out faster and will not last long. 

Conclusion 

A horse girth has three different sizes like in the Western, English, and Australian size. They come in five different sizes and according to the country that you are buying them in. So, you have to decide on your horse girth as per the country you will ride your horse in.