Instructions
Thread the rear cinch connecting strap to the front cinch through the small D-ring. Some connecting straps have buckles, buttons or clamps to connect to the front strap ring. Some western saddles already have the flank cinch connected to the saddle body.
Reach under the horse and pull up the flank strap.
Pull the flank strap up through the rear strap D-ring. Place your hand between the strap and the horse's belly, ensuring you can fit three fingers vertically from the belly to the strap. This much room is essential to allow the horse room to stride.
Buckle the strap into place and tuck the excess back into the girth slip.
How to Tie a Rear Cinch Strap
When horseback riding, a poorly secured saddle can not only be uncomfortable, but it can cause serious injury if an accident occurs. A saddle is secured by cinch straps and usually is secured by a front strap only on basic western saddles. A saddle with a front and rear cinch strap is referred to as a "double-rig." The rear cinch -- otherwise referred to as a flank strap or bucking strap -- is used for holding the saddle down during intense activity, such as roping and fast downhill riding. The rear cinch must be tightened correctly to be effective.