Showjumping & Short Girths (long billets)

[equidstar11]

Happy Saturday all.

I have a question regarding using short girths & long billets (eg often seen on monoflap saddles) for showjumping.

I watch top showjumping pretty regularly and I’ve noticed there are literally none using short girths, all long girths and dual flap saddles.

Now of course I know there is some fashion aspect / personal preference, but I was wondering if there are any biomechanical / physical reasons why showjumpers tend to only use long girths?

I did wonder about the buckles being in the way of short stirrups and the forward leg position when jumping?

Curious for people to share their own experiences / views on this!

 

[PinkvSantaboots]

I don't know specifically about jumping saddles but some horses just prefer a long girth.

 

[SpotsandBays]

I can’t speak from experience but you’ve got me wondering about XC saddles in comparison. I feel like monoflaps are quite common for XC and those probably have short girths - so I’m thinking there probably isn’t a biomechanical reason (but that’s just my guess)

 

[equidstar11]

I can’t speak from experience but you’ve got me wondering about XC saddles in comparison. I feel like monoflaps are quite common for XC and those probably have short girths - so I’m thinking there probably isn’t a biomechanical reason (but that’s just my guess)

True. and their leg positions are often very forward. It’s just very unusual that there aren’t many in SJing.

I always cringe at how short most people’s short girths are - right by the elbow.

I have almost right to the bottom of the flap (32”) but I will admit I find it annoying when my stirrup hits it sometimes, so perhaps it could be a bit shorter without impeding on their movement…

 

[Cragrat]

I've wondered that too....

Could be as simple as being easier to tighten/loosen the girth?

Maybe the question is 'Why are most XC saddles monoflap/long billet, when it makes the girth more awkward to adjust?' Perhaps to do with weight saving over the longer distances?