Surcingles for Horses - Training & Riding Equipment

Horse Surcingles

A surcingle is an essential piece of equestrian equipment that wraps around a horse's girth area. Used for training, lunging, ground work, and as a foundation for introducing young horses to tack, surcingles provide secure attachment points without the weight of a full saddle.

Surcingle Uses

Surcingles serve multiple purposes in horse training and care. They're commonly used during lunging sessions to attach side reins or training aids, for ground driving exercises, as a vaulting surcingle in equestrian vaulting, and for securing blankets and sheets. Many trainers use surcingles when starting young horses under saddle, as they help horses become accustomed to girth pressure before introducing a full saddle.

Construction and Features

Quality surcingles are constructed from durable leather or heavy-duty nylon webbing. They feature multiple D-rings or attachment points positioned along the sides and top, allowing for versatile training aid placement. Most include padded sections to prevent rubbing and ensure horse comfort during extended use. Adjustable buckles or roller buckles provide proper fit across different horse sizes and body types.

Selecting a Surcingle

When choosing a surcingle, consider the intended use, material preference, and required attachment points. Training surcingles typically have more D-rings for maximum versatility, while vaulting surcingles feature specialized handles. Proper fit is critical—the surcingle should sit in the girth groove without restricting movement or breathing.