How to Girth an Abetta Saddle

Many riders prefer Abetta saddles for their light weight and durability. These saddles are an excellent choice for owners of all breeds of horses, but it is important for riders to know how to cinch them up properly. Your safety depends on the quality of the tack you use, and on the proper use of that tack.

Things You'll Need

  • Saddle pad
  • Cinch strap
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Place a quality saddle pad on your horse's back, positioning it just behind his withers. Place the stirrups over the top of the saddle and gently place the saddle on his back.

    • 2

      Walk to the off side of your horse and pull the cinch strap down. You can leave the stirrups hanging over the seat of the saddle.

    • 3

      Move to the near side of your horse and reach underneath him to grasp the cinch strap. Pull the cinch strap up and loop it through the back of the ring on the saddle.

    • 4

      Pull the cinch strap through the ring and loop it up and over. Pull the strap to the left and then loop it up through the ring on your right.

    • 5

      Pull the end of the cinch strap down through the saddle ring and begin to tighten it up. Tighten the girth by lifting up the part of the girth closest to your horse and pulling down on the end of the girth strap.

    • 6

      Continue tightening the girth until it is snug. You should be able to put your hand between the girth strap and the horse's side without feeling pinched.

    • 7

      Mount your horse and ride for a few minutes; then, stop, dismount and tighten the girth again. It is not unusual for the girth strap to loosen up a bit, so make sure you perform this check each time you ride.