Kentucky Anatomical Dressage Girth - Sheepskin
Kentucky Anatomical Dressage Girth - Sheepskin
Kentucky Anatomical Stud Girth - Sheepskin
Kentucky Anatomical Stud Girth - Sheepskin
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Anatomical Girths | Emmers Equestrian
The girth keeps your saddle in place, but it also has a big impact on your horse’s comfort and freedom of movement. An anatomical girth is shaped to follow your horse’s body. It’s cut back behind the elbows and often wider in the middle, under the sternum, so pressure is spread evenly and your horse can move its front legs freely. That makes an anatomical girth a popular choice for riders in every discipline, from dressage to show jumping.
Why choose an anatomical girth?
A straight girth can press or rub behind the elbows, especially when your horse is moving forward with big, expressive strides or folding its legs over a fence. An anatomical girth avoids this with its curved shape. Many riders also notice that their saddle stays in place better, because the girth naturally sits in the narrowest part of the horse’s chest.
Benefits of an anatomical girth
- More freedom for the elbows: the curved shape keeps the girth clear of the elbows, reducing the risk of rubbing and girth galls.
- Even pressure distribution: a wider center spreads pressure over a larger area of the sternum.
- A stable saddle: the girth sits naturally in the girth groove, helping the saddle stay in place.
- More comfort: many horses move more freely and relaxed with a well-fitting anatomical girth.
Short girths and long girths
Anatomical girths come in two main types. Long girths are used with jumping and all-purpose saddles, which have short girth straps. Short girths, also known as dressage girths, are used with dressage saddles, which have long girth straps. Always choose the type that matches your saddle. Not sure if it's the right fit? We are happy to help you with our saddle fitting service.
Anatomical girths at Emmers Equestrian
At Emmers Equestrian you’ll find a selection of anatomical girths from trusted equestrian brands such as Kentucky Horsewear, CWD, and HFI, in leather and synthetic materials and in a range of lengths. Not sure which girth suits your horse and saddle best? Visit one of our stores or make an appointment for a saddle fitting or contact our customer service for advice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Anatomical Girths
What is an anatomical girth?
An anatomical girth is a girth with a curved shape that follows the horse’s body. It’s cut back behind the elbows and often wider in the middle, giving your horse more freedom of movement and spreading pressure more evenly.
What’s the difference between an anatomical girth and a straight girth?
A straight girth has the same shape along its full length, which can press or rub behind the elbows. An anatomical girth is shaped to stay clear of the elbows and sit naturally in the girth groove.
Should I choose a short girth or a long girth?
That depends on your saddle. Dressage saddles have long girth straps and need a short girth. Jumping and all-purpose saddles have short girth straps and need a long girth.
How do I measure my horse for an anatomical girth?
For a long girth, place your saddle on your horse and measure from the middle hole of the girth straps on one side, under the belly, to the middle hole on the other side. For a short girth, measure in the same way between the ends of the long girth straps, making sure the buckles will sit below the saddle flap. Compare your measurement with the size chart on the product page. Not sure which length to choose? Emmers is happy to help in one of our stores or through our customer service.
Should I choose a girth with elastic?
Elastic on one or both ends gives the girth a little flexibility as your horse breathes and moves, which many horses find more comfortable. Girths with elastic on both sides are a popular choice, as they allow the girth to be tightened evenly.
Leather or synthetic: which material is best?
Leather girths are durable, classic, and mold to your horse over time. Synthetic girths are easy to clean and often lighter. Many girths also have a soft lining, such as neoprene or memory foam, for extra comfort.
How do I care for my anatomical girth?
Clean your girth after every ride to remove sweat and dirt, as these can cause rubbing. Treat leather girths regularly with leather conditioner to keep them supple. Synthetic girths can usually be rinsed or wiped clean. Always follow the care instructions on the product.