Uses of Elastic-Ended Girths

Most horses are not fond of the girthing process, but for some horses having the girth tightened can be quite painful. It's always important to use a properly fitting saddle, both in style and form, for each horse, but it is equally important to choose the right girth. A variety of girths are available, but the wrong girth can cause galls, increase the chance of saddle slippage and be difficult to tighten properly. Elastic-ended (elastic billet) girths are used generally because their elasticity offers some comfort for the horse as well as making them easier to tighten.

  1. Fit

    • Elastic-ended girths are used for their fitting qualities. Although the girth can't be made smaller, the stretch of the elastic billets allow these girths to be used for different horses with various body types. If a horse gains a bit of weight, there is enough stretch for the girth to be used still without the need for girth extenders.

    Handling

    • Elastic billet girths (or girths with one elastic billet) are an excellent choice for riders who lack hand strength. Children, arthritic riders, or individuals with arm, hand or wrist injuries do not need to use a lot of strength to buckle the girth. The elastic billets allow enough "give" and flexibility to tighten the girth without unusual effort. This attribute can ensure a secure saddle without worry and without the frustration of not having the strength to tighten a saddle properly when riding alone.

    Sensitive Horses

    • Some individual horses are sensitive to being girthed. They may be thin-skinned, feel pinched or have pressure exerted on a nerve during the girthing process. The elastic billet allows a girth to be tightened slowly while allowing some "give" as the billets are buckled. Even when fully tightened, this type of girth offers some relief to the horse during riding. The girth never should be overtightened (pulled tight with extreme pressure).

    Choosing the Girth

    • Find the girth that best suits your horse. Elastic girths may not be a good fit for every horse. Some girths come with center elastics rather than billet elastics, which may allow for a more even "give." Certain elastic-ended girths may encourage galling in sensitive horses as the flexibility also can cause friction. Try a variety of girths to find the one that best suits the individual horse, his discipline and his conformation. It is important never to over-tighten any style of girth.