Horse glossary
Girth
The strap that holds the saddle on (English tack).
In Spanish: Cincha
What it means
The girth is the wide strap that goes under the horse's belly, just behind the front legs, and buckles to both sides of an English saddle to hold it on. On a western saddle, the same job is done by the cinch. Girths are made of leather, fabric, or synthetic materials and often have elastic at one end.
Why it matters
A girth that is too loose lets the saddle slip, which can cause a fall. One that is too tight or done up too fast is uncomfortable, and some horses learn to dread saddling if the girth is pulled up roughly.
Example
Tighten the girth slowly in steps.
Try this
Tighten the girth gradually, one hole at a time, first when you tack up, again before you get on, and once more after a few minutes of walking. Ask your instructor to show you how snug it should be.
Common mistake
Many riders check the girth once and forget it. Horses often relax, or let out a breath they were holding, after moving a bit, so a girth that felt tight at first can be loose a few minutes later.
Topics
Where this word comes up
- Tack Up (English Basics)A beginner-friendly, step-by-step tack-up routine with instructor help.
- Tack Safety CheckA quick, simple tack check you can do with an instructor before riding.
- Untack + Care for GearStep-by-step untacking with help, plus simple gear care habits.
- Tack CheckpointsBuild a habit of checking pad, girth, and reins.
- BarrelThe round midsection of the body (ribcage area).
- Girth AreaThe area behind the front legs where the girth sits.
- GirthThe strap that holds the saddle on (English tack).