Girths

Harnesses - the right choice in the Sportano shopHarnesses, although at first glance they may appear to be just a simple strip of material, play a key role in the equestrian world. Their main function is to keep the saddle in the correct position on the horse's back, while ensuring comfort and safety for both rider and horse. A correctly fitted girth minimises the risk of the saddle shifting while riding, which is crucial for safe and effective horse riding.Types of girths: from classic to modern modelsGirths, these key pieces of equestrian equipment, are designed to hold the saddle in place while providing comfort for the horse. For centuries, riders have used different types of tethers, adapting them to their specific needs. The traditional, classic models, often made of leather, were prized for their durability and aesthetics. Leather girdles, with their luxurious finish and precise details, are often the choice of professionals and enthusiasts of the classical disciplines. But as in any field, technological advances have also touched the equestrian world. Modern horse tethers can be made from nylon, neoprene or other synthetic materials that offer flexibility, weather resistance and ease of maintenance. Recent decades have also brought innovations in the design of tethers. Today, we can find models with elasticated ends that better adapt to the horse's movements, girth ties with gel inserts for increased comfort or even those with non-slip surfaces. Choosing the right girth depends on the individual needs of the rider and the horse, but undoubtedly today's market offers something for everyone.Materials and technologies: which raw materials dominate the production of girths? The traditional and one of the most appreciated materials used in the production of girths is leather. Leather ties are not only aesthetically pleasing but also extremely durable and resistant to damage. Thanks to the natural properties of the leather, such tethers adapt perfectly to the shape of the horse's body, minimising the risk of abrasion or irritation. Although they require regular care to maintain their properties, for many riders they are the first choice due to their unrivalled properties and elegant appearance. In response to the growing demand for materials that are more practical and easy to maintain, neoprene has become one of the more popular materials in the production of horse tethers. Neoprene is flexible, fits easily and is extremely easy to clean. It also provides extra protection against abrasion and irritation, making it ideal for horses with sensitive skin. Another material that has grown in popularity in recent years is nylon. Nylon horse tethers are lightweight, strong and weatherproof. Their durability makes them perfect for heavy use, yet they are relatively cheap to produce, making them accessible to a wider range of riders. Recent years have brought a number of innovations in the field of girth production. New developments include gel inserts that adapt to the shape of the horse and provide additional comfort, and elastic systems that respond to the horse's movements while ensuring a consistent fit. Many companies are also making use of modern technologies, such as breathable fabrics and non-slip surfaces, to ensure maximum comfort for both horse and rider. The girth harness market now offers a wide range of materials to cater for different rider needs. From the traditional leather girths to modern technological solutions, the key is to find a product that will best serve both horse comfort and functionality for the rider.How to properly fit a girth to a horse and saddle? Choosing the right girth is not only a question of aesthetics, but more importantly functionality and comfort for the horse. The first step is, of course, to measure the horse. The measurement should be taken at the point where the girth will be located, usually at the widest point of the horse's chest. The length of the girthband is crucial to ensure that it provides adequate support for the saddle and does not cause discomfort to the horse. Too short a girth can cause chafing, while too long a girth will not adequately hold the saddle. The next step is to check the width and shape of the girth. Some horses have a more convex chest, which may require a wider girth, while others prefer a narrower, flatter shape. The shape and width of the girth has a direct impact on the weight distribution of the saddle and can affect the way the horse moves. After carefully measuring your horse and taking into account the specifics of the saddle, it is also worth thinking about the material of the girth. Leather girths are durable and aesthetically pleasing but may require more care, while synthetic ones are easier to maintain but may not be as durable. Ultimately, a correctly chosen girth is one that will keep your horse comfortable and secure, while keeping the saddle in place while riding.