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It is easy to forget how important your pack cinch is until there is a problem. A little information now might help prevent a problem later.
Popular Materials
Just like saddle cinches, pack cinches are available in a variety of materials:
- Polyester. Very economical, but this is the most attractive feature.
- Neoprene. Popular for the same reason that neoprene saddle cinches are: they grip well, do not pick up seeds and burrs and are easy to clean. But they can be hot, they do not breathe and you must be very careful not to overcinch.
- Mohair or wool string girths. Very popular. They breathe and wick sweat well, do not pick up burrs and seeds easily and, when used properly, very rarely cause soring.
- Mohair or wool blend string girths. Also very popular and slightly more economical than the 100% mohair or wool cinches. The blend is usually 60% mohair or wool, but it would be wise to ensure that is the case. These, too, will breathe and wick well, resist burrs and seeds to a degree and, when used properly, very rarely cause soring.
Soring
If you have soring problems with your current pack cinch, we recommend that you first try adjusting the cinch length and the cinch placement (some adjustments can be made to your pack saddle rigging to change where your cinch lands). Also take a look at your cinching method (are you cinching too tight or pinching the skin?). If none of these solve the soring problems, feel free to try a different material to see if that makes a difference.
Two Styles
Pack cinches are available in two styles: Decker (or single) and Sawbuck (or double).  The Decker cinches are offered in even sizes generally from 26"-34" in length. The Sawbuck pack cinches can be the same length front and back or the front can be one size (two inches) shorter than the back. This is the style that we carry because I think it fits the animal better. The shorter side of the Sawbuck pack cinch should go in the front and the longer side in the back where it lays over a wider portion of the body.
Cinch Length
I suggest you keep your pack cinches short. A short pack cinch will hold better and your horse will rarely develop a sore from the latigo tie strap. My recommended lengths are:
- 800-900 lb animal: 26" Decker or 26/28" Sawbuck
- 900-1100 lb animal: 28" Decker or 28/30" Sawbuck
- 1100-1300 lb animal: 30" Decker or 30/32" Sawbuck
Would you like to go shopping?
TrailMax™ Decker Pack Cinch
TrailMax™ Sawbuck Pack Cinch
Would you like more information?
Russ On... How Much Weight Can my Horse Carry?
Russ On... Choosing a Pack Pad
Horse Packing Equipment
Decker Pack Saddle
Sawbuck Pack Saddle
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