A cinch that fits keeps your saddle balanced and your horse comfortable. It’s also safer. All you need to measure is your horse, your saddle, and a tape measure. Watch the video, then follow the steps below.
Why Cinch Length Matters
Safety: A cinch that’s too long can be hard or impossible to tighten enough.
Saddle balance: The right length helps your saddle sit evenly on your horse.
No rubbing: Cinch buckles stay clear of your fender hardware, and centered D rings won’t rub the inside of your horse’s legs.
How to Measure, Step by Step
Saddle your horse and tighten the cinch the way you normally would.
Center the cinch. The middle D rings should sit in the middle of your horse’s belly. If they don’t, adjust the off-side latigo or off billet until they do.
Measure each side. With the cinch tight, measure from the bottom of the saddle D ring to the top of the cinch buckle.
Check your numbers. Both sides should measure about the same, between 6 and 8 inches.
How to Find Your Right Size
If both sides measure 6 to 8 inches, your cinch fits. You’re done.
If either side measures more than 8 inches, your cinch is too short. Add the extra inches from both sides to your current cinch length.
Example: You have a 30″ cinch and measure 10″ on each side. That’s 2″ over on each side, so 2″ + 2″ = 4″. You need a 34″ cinch.
If either side measures less than 6 inches, your cinch is too long. Subtract the missing inches from both sides from your current cinch length.
Example: You have a 30″ cinch and measure 5″ on each side. That’s 1″ under on each side, so 1″ + 1″ = 2″. You need a 28″ cinch.
Between sizes? Most cinches come in 2-inch steps. Pick the size that puts both sides inside the 6 to 8 inch range.
Quick Checklist
Saddle on and cinch tightened as usual
Center D rings in the middle of the belly
Measure from saddle D ring to cinch buckle on both sides
Aim for 6 to 8 inches on each side
Over 8″? Go longer. Under 6″? Go shorter.
Common Questions
Should I re-measure if my horse gains or loses weight?
Yes. A change in condition can change the fit, so check again after any big change.
Does this work for any saddle?
This method works for front cinches on most western saddles. If you’re unsure about your setup, give us a call.
Can I measure without the saddle on?
For the most accurate size, measure with your own saddle on your own horse. Different saddles hang differently.
Our Cinches
The hand-tied, mohair-blend cinch was the first product Dennis made when he started this business in [YEAR]. Ours are built with 31 strands. Most cinches on the market use 27 strands or fewer. The extra strands make a cinch that’s more comfortable for your horse. Our cinches are also designed to pull straight to prevent galling.
They won’t curl or stretch, and they’ll last through years of hard use. You won’t find a better-made cinch anywhere, nor one that looks and feels this good. We guarantee it.
Shop our hand-tied, 31-strand cinches: https://dmtack.com/pcategory/cinches/cinches-cinches/
Questions? We’re Here to Help.
We’re a full-line handmade tack manufacturer, and we’re happy to help you find the right fit.
Call us at (832) 529-9226
