Long Saddle Girths

How do I measure the correct girth length for my horse?

Not only the saddle must fit the horse perfectly, but also the girth. When choosing a girth for your horse, one of the most important factors is the girth length.
To determine the correct girth length, you must distinguish between a long girth and a dressage girth. The correct length of a dressage girth is determined on a saddled horse with the girth tightened as follows:

• Both sides of the girth must be fastened at the same height.
• Measure from the lower edge of the saddle flap to the lower edge of the saddle flap.
• Subtract 30 cm from this.
• Round up the result to the next length.

What is the best girth to use on a girthy horse?

Some horses are sensitive when the girth is put on, as well as when it is tightened. Basically, it is advisable to tack up every horse gently and to pay attention to its sensations. Tighten the girth gradually and only as far as the horse will accept without biting, pinning his ears or curling his mouth. You should also rule out more serious problems, such as an ill-fitting saddle or a wrinkled saddle pad, skin, muscle or gastrointestinal problems.
To be able to tighten a girth gently, it has to be long enough so that you don't already have to apply a lot of pull to get into the first hole. The correct fit determines the distribution of pressure that is comfortable for the horse. The wider the girth, the better the pressure distribution. Remember that an improperly fitting girth will affect the overall quality of the horse's movement and performance. This is because uncomfortable pressure points on the external fascia will affect the rest of the horse's body structures.
Critically question the current girth shape for girthy horses. The right girth shape depends on the shape of the horse's body and should be chosen in such a way that the elbow has enough freedom of movement and no skin is pinched. Depending on the horse, you can choose the following girth shapes:

• Straight girth: For horses with a pronounced girth groove, as the girth comes to rest very far back.
• Anatomical girth: Girth cut far back on both sides at elbow level. For horses with a big girth groove, where the girth comes to rest far from the elbow.
• Asymmetrical girth: Girth cut far back on one side at elbow level. In horses with a small girth groove, where the girth lies close to the elbow.
• Crescent girth: For horses with a round belly and short back.

What are the features of long girths?

Long girths are mainly used on saddles that have a relatively short saddle flap under which the girth straps are hidden. This is especially the case in show jumping or eventing. In this case, the girth reaches under the saddle flap. Long girths are available in both straight and anatomical cuts. In addition to long girths made of leather, you can also buy cord girths, long girths with sheepskin or teddy fleece cover or with memory foam.

What are the distinguishing features of stud guard girths?

A stud guard girth has a strongly pronounced belly protection. This protects the horse from injury, for example, over the jump when bending the legs while wearing shoes with studs. Stud guard girths come in different materials and designs. One of the most commonly used materials is leather, but they are also available with a sheepskin cover for extra comfort.

What are the characteristics of anatomical girths?

As their name suggests, anatomical girths are designed to fit the horse's rump perfectly. They are more or less cut back at the level of the elbow so that the horse has sufficient freedom of movement and no skin is pinched. They are particularly suitable for horses with a pronounced girth groove. Their shape prevents the girth from slipping forward against the foreleg. Anatomical girths can be worn by most horses without pinching anywhere.

What is the purpose of a girth with elastic inserts?

Saddle girths with elastic inserts should only be used with caution. There is a great danger of pulling the girth too tight. Make sure that there is always enough air between the girth and the horse's belly and that the horse's breathing and movement is not restricted. Generally, girths with elastic inserts are popular with horses that are sensitive to pressure, as the pressure increases slowly and is not sudden. If you use a girth with elastic inserts on one side, use the firm side for girthing to prevent the girth from being pulled too tight.
Alternatively, you can use cord girths that have a certain basic elasticity. These are very suitable for both young and experienced horses. You can also adjust a cord girth from the saddle without the risk of tightening it too much.