The girth strap is the strap on the underside of a saddle that the girth attaches to, connecting the saddle securely to the horse’s belly. Often referred to simply as the “billet strap” or “billets,” most saddles have three girth straps on each side, though riders typically use only two at a time. Correct girth strap selection and girthing technique are fundamental to safe, comfortable riding and have a direct impact on both saddle security and the horse’s comfort and movement.
How Girth Straps Work
Each girth strap is attached to the saddle tree via webbing that runs over the tree. Most modern saddles have what is known as a “long girth strap” option or the more traditional short billets. On dressage saddles, long girth straps (often reaching below the flap to accommodate a short dressage girth) are standard. On jumping and general purpose saddles, shorter billets with a long girth are more common.
The arrangement of the three billets matters. The first two billets typically sit on the same piece of webbing, whilst the third — sometimes called the “point strap” or “safety strap” — runs over a separate piece of webbing. If one webbing fails, the other remains. For this reason, some saddlers recommend using billets 1 and 3 rather than 1 and 2, distributing the load across two independent webbings. This varies by saddle design, so always consult a qualified saddle fitter.
Types of Girth and Girth Attachment
The girth itself — the strap that encircles the horse’s barrel — attaches to the billets via buckles at each end. Common girth types include:
- Anatomical girths — shaped to avoid pressure on the elbow, encourage forward leg movement, and provide even pressure distribution
- Straight girths — traditional, simple design; suitable for many horses when fitted correctly
- Dressage girths — short girths used with long billet straps, positioning the buckles lower and further from the rider’s leg
- Stud guard girths — wider, reinforced girths used for show jumping to protect the horse from striking themselves with hind studs
The material of the girth also matters. Leather girths are traditional and durable. Synthetic and neoprene girths are easy to clean. Fleece-lined girths are often used on sensitive horses. Whatever the material, the girth should lie flat, sit two to three fingers behind the elbow, and be fastened evenly on both sides.
Correct Girthing Technique
Girthing should always be done gradually. Doing up a cold girth too tightly too quickly is uncomfortable for the horse and can cause resistance, girth aversion, and behavioural issues. The recommended approach is:
- Do up the girth loosely before mounting — enough to stop the saddle slipping, but not tight
- Walk the horse a few steps to allow the girth to settle and the saddle to find its position
- Tighten the girth gradually after mounting, checking one hole at a time on each side
- Check girth tightness again after five to ten minutes of work, as it often loosens slightly as the horse warms up
A correctly fitted girth should allow two fingers to be inserted beneath it without force. Too tight is uncomfortable and restricts breathing; too loose risks saddle slippage and is a safety hazard. For related information on securing the saddle for cross country, see our cross country entry.
Checking and Replacing Girth Straps
Girth straps are a safety-critical piece of tack and should be inspected regularly. Leather billets should be checked for cracking, thinning, or stitching failure. Synthetic billets should be checked for fraying or stress marks at the buckle holes. A girth strap that fails during riding can cause the saddle to rotate, with serious injury risk to rider and horse.
Straps should be replaced if any deterioration is noted. Saddle fitting appointments — recommended annually by the British Horse Society — provide an opportunity to have the saddle and its components checked by a professional. More information at bhs.org.uk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do saddles have three girth straps if only two are used?
The third strap provides a safety redundancy and also allows riders to adjust the positioning of the girth relative to the saddle’s balance point. Using different combinations of billets can slightly alter where the girth sits, which can benefit horses with unusual conformation. A saddle fitter will advise which combination is best for a particular horse-saddle combination.
What causes girth galls?
Girth galls are sores caused by friction or pressure from the girth. They typically develop behind the elbows where the girth makes repeated contact during movement. Causes include a girth that is too tight, a girth in poor condition with rough edges or dried leather, or a horse with particularly sensitive skin. Correct fitting, regular tack cleaning, and a girth cover or gel pad can prevent them. Affected skin should be allowed to heal before the horse returns to work.
Can I use any girth with any saddle?
No. Girth length and style must match the saddle’s billet arrangement. Dressage saddles with long billets require short girths (typically 45–55cm). GP and jumping saddles with short billets require long girths (typically 100–130cm). Using the wrong girth length will place the buckles in the wrong position, causing discomfort or rubbing. Always check girth compatibility when buying new tack.