How to Cinch a English Saddle

No matter what type of horse you ride or what type of riding you do, it is essential that all of your equipment be in good repair. It is also essential that all of your tack, including the girth on your English saddle, be adjusted properly. If the girth is cinched too tightly, your horse will be uncomfortable and may be unable to perform properly. If the girth is too loose your saddle will not be secure.

Things You'll Need

  • Horse
  • Saddle
  • Girth
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Run your stirrups up the stirrup leathers so they are not hanging loose. Simply grip the stirrup in one hand and the stirrup leather in the other, then slide the stirrup up as far as it will go.

    • 2

      Flip the girth up over the saddle so that it will not be in the way when you saddle your horse. Place the saddle blanket on your horse right behind his withers, then set the saddle in place.

    • 3

      Walk to the off side of your horse and pull the girth down so that it is hanging straight. Then move back to the near side and reach under your horse to pull the girth toward you.

    • 4
      Make sure your girth is secure before you start to ride.

      Locate the girth straps on the near side of the saddle and slide the straps through the buckles on the girth itself. Pull the girth up so that it is neither too tight nor too loose. You should be able to fit your hand comfortably between the girth and your horse.

    • 5

      Pull the fasteners on the girth through the hole on the girth strap and check the tightness of the girth again. Mount your horse and ride him around for a few minutes.

    • 6

      Check the tightness of the girth again by reaching down and checking the space between your horse and the girth. Often the girth will need to be retightened after the first few minutes of riding. Many horses will puff out their bellies as they are being saddled, so the girth may be looser than you intended. If your horse will stand quietly, you can reach down and pull the girth up to the next hole in the strap. If not, dismount your horse, adjust the girth and get back on.