English Girths - Leather, Fleece & More

To measure a horse for an English girth, place a cloth measuring tape four inches (or approximately one hand's width) above the elbow on one side of the horse, pass it under the barrel to the identical spot on the opposite side, and subtract 20 inches from the total measurement. Alternatively, measure from the middle hole of the saddle's billet straps on one side, underneath the belly, to the middle hole on the other side. For dressage or monoflap saddles, subtract 20 inches from your standard long girth measurement.

Choosing the right material depends on your performance and maintenance preferences. Traditional leather English girths deliver a classic, show-ring ready look and long-lasting durability but require regular conditioning. Synthetic and fleece-lined girths provide excellent moisture-wicking comfort, prevent chafing on sensitive horses, and offer convenient, low-maintenance care for everyday schooling.

The primary difference is the degree of contouring. An anatomic girth features subtle, smooth cutouts directly behind the horse's elbows to prevent pinching on forward-girth cut horses. A shaped or shoulder-relief girth features a dramatic forward or backward curve offset from the billet lines, designed to pull the saddle away from the shoulder blades on horses with large shoulders or short backs.

The choice depends on maintenance preference and skin sensitivity. Leather offers traditional show-ring style and molds to the horse but requires consistent conditioning. Fleece-lined girths are ideal for sensitive horses prone to girth galls and friction sores but require frequent washing. Synthetic or neoprene girths are low-maintenance, breathable, and easily wiped clean, making them perfect for daily schooling.

Elastic allows the horse's ribcage to expand comfortably while breathing. While double-sided elastic distributes pressure most evenly, single-sided elastic is a traditional variant. When using a single-sided elastic girth, care must be taken to alternate sides or flip the girth periodically to prevent uneven pressure across the horse's spine and keep the saddle centered.