How to fit & adjust horse rug belly surcingles

How to fit & adjust horse rug belly surcingles main image How to fit & adjust horse rug belly surcingles image
We explore some of the common questions regarding belly surcingles; what do they do and how to ensure the fit is correct for ideal comfort, safety and horse rug longevity.

In this article we explore some of the common questions regarding horse rug belly surcingles; what do they do and how do ensure the fit is correct for ideal comfort, safety, and horse rug longevity?

What do horse rug belly surcingles do?

Belly surcingles aid in maintaining a secure fit and enhance the overall comfort and comfort of the horse rug.

Unfortunately, your horse does not share your opinion that a horse rug is a great investment. Belly surcingles help to keep the horse rug in place while he and his friends are having a rollicking fun time in the paddock or he is scratching his rear end against a fence post. 

Your horse will experience a more consistent climate, as well as a better degree of movement and comfort when properly fitted belly surcingles are used in conjunction with the appropriate size horse rug.

Why do some rugs not have surcingles?

Delzani horse rugs are commonly made with two surcingles. However, this is dependent on the intent of the horse rug design. For example, lightweight horse rugs such as flag or hybrids can be made without belly surcingles to ensure maximum airflow and improved climate. 

How do I fit belly surcingles correctly?

Delzani belly surcingles have been designed to crisscross front and rear straps over each other for maximum security and rug longevity. The straps have adjustment for correct fitting and freedom of movement. If the surcingles are too tight, you risk chafing from excessive rubbing and restricting his ability to lie down. Conversely, surcingles that are too long could cause him to tear the straps when rolling and damage the rug.

The ideal fit is found by:

1 - Crisscrossing the surcingle -  so that the front left surcingle attaches under the horse's belly to the rear right attachment and vice versa.

2 - Adjust the slack - utilising the adjustment sliders to allow one vertical fist width between the horse’s belly and the straps. (ie around 10 cm)

 Allowing adequate time to adjust straps carefully when fitting your horse rug will keep your horse happy for years to come.

Still have questions? We have the answers! Feel free to reach out to the team at Delzani


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