How to Measure a Horse for an English Girth

Fitting an English saddle girth is an easy task that is worth the effort as it saves the trouble of arriving at a stable to ride and discovering that the girth is too short or long. Without a properly fitted girth, the saddle will not be stable, and since saddle stability affects rider stability, a secure saddle is crucial to safety. Save time and trouble by measuring and fitting the girth properly in the beginning, rather than in desperation later.

Things You'll Need

  • Tie area for horse
  • Saddle (optional but advised)
  • Saddle pads (optional but advised)
  • Loose measuring tape
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Instructions

  1. Measuring a Horse for an English Girth

    • 1

      Gather all equipment and place it near the tie area. Bring the horse around and tie him. Make sure the area is flat and the horse is standing squarely.

    • 2

      If you are using a saddle and pads, place these on the horse just behind the dip of the shoulder bone and withers--where the saddle would go if you were riding.

      If you are not using a saddle, skip to the next step.

    • 3

      Take the measuring tape and place one end on the third hole from the bottom of the front billet strap (the straps that the girth attaches to, underneath the main flap) on the left side of the saddle.

      If not using a saddle, place the measuring tape approximately half way down the horse's rib cage along the indentation behind the shoulder and withers. If the saddle you will be using is small, such as for a child or small woman, place the tape several inches higher.

    • 4

      Holding the tape in place, pull it gently straight and mark at what point it reaches the horse's left front fetlock joint (ankle). This measurement, rounded to the nearest inch, is how long the girth should be. If no girths come in the size measured, round up to the nearest size.