Cinch Size

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How can I determine my horse's cinch size?

Cinch Size

The cinch in the front is a crucial piece of Western tack. This piece helps to lock the saddle into place on the horse. Keep in mind that because this piece sits so close to the animals skin it is often exposed to sweat that causes it to rot. In other words: it needs to be replaced quite often.

If you are in the market for a new cinch, not just any one will do—it must be a good fit for your horse. If the cinch is too small, it will chafe the horse's sides and if it is too large you won't be able to tighten it enough to secure the saddle. Are you confused about how to figure out the appropriate cinch size for your horse? Here's a good guide to follow:

Stand your horse on level ground. Stand to the left of the horse and put one end of a lead rope behind the withers. Then, pull the rope down the right side, around the barrel, and up up the left side to just beneath his elbow (where the cinch would usually be). Pull the rope tight, but not so tight that it is cutting into the horse. Finally, hold the rope at the spot where it unites with the end—you'll use this to make your first measurement.

Hold tight to the spot on the rope and remove the rope from the horse. Next, pull the rope straight and measure the distance from the end to the point that you are holding with your finger using measuring tape.

Use the following formula: Divide the initial measurement by 2. Next, subtract 3 from the answer (round up if you need to). This number you reach will be the cinch size of your horse. Here is an example based on a 75'' measurement:

75/2 = 37.5

37.5-3=34.5

   

Comments

9/4/2006 11:34:31 AM
Christine said:

Too complicated...isn't there a reference point on the horse anatomy that a person can look and and judge...like maybe elbow to elbow or midway between the belly and the withers...something like that?


7/9/2007 4:06:57 PM
Jan said:

I had to read it 3 times before I completely understood! To simplify this, measure his HEARTGIRTH...So, Heartgirth=___divided by 2=___minus 3=____=Gith size you need.




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