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Choosing the Best Western Cinches
The western cinch is an essential piece of equipment as it holds your saddle on while you ride. Choosing the right western cinch will not only affect the security of the saddle but also the comfort of your horse. The wrong western cinch could poke your horse, be too tight, and potentially cause them to misbehave. Here is some more information about western saddle cinches to help you get the right cinch for your horse.
Style: Here are some of the most common styles of western cinches:
- Straight: These western cinches are very popular and are usually a good option for most riders. They are a great all-purpose girth as they can be used for the majority of disciplines.
- Countoured: This western cinch style curves back in the areas that rest near the horse's elbows preventing rubbing and improving comfort. These western cinches are great for disciplines that involve big movements.
- Roper: These western cinches get wider in the middle, making them more secure. They are often used with horses who have low withers.
- Double Layer: These western cinches have two layers to add extra support and are typically in a roper design.
Materials: Most western cinches are made of mohair, fleece, or neoprene. Mohair is the most traditional option as it is the most breathable, and dries the quickest. However, it is the hardest to clean. Fleece is the easiest on your horse's skin but it is also the thickest and most slippery. Neoprene is very slip-resistant and easy to clean, but it is not as breathable. Keep in mind horses can be allergic to neoprene. Select the material you want based on the specific needs of your horse.
Fit: Your cinches buckle or the loop should sit 3-4 inches above your horse's elbow and about a hands width behind their elbows when fitted correctly. Make sure you measure your horse as poorly fitted western cinches can cause discomfort.
Brand: There are many styles and brands for you to choose from when buying a western cinch. Dura-Tech, Professional's Choice, and Weaver western horse cinches are a few of the many brands selling western cinches. Before buying your cinch make sure to do some research on the brand to make sure it will be high quality and long-lasting.
Frequently Asked Questions About Western Cinches
How to measure western saddle cinches?
To measure a western saddle cinch, you first measure from the middle of the horse's heart girth to the widest point in their ribcage, then multiply this number by two. That will give you an approximate cinch size.
Do you measure a Western cinch from the buckle to buckle?
Yes, western cinches are measured from buckle to buckle in inches.
What is better, alpaca or mohair cinch?
Alpaca cinches are softer than mohair cinches, but unless your horse is very sensitive they probably work about the same. In addition, mohair cinches can absorb much more water than alpaca cinches can and they are typically easier to clean.