Surcingle: a versatile piece of equipment for ground work and vaulting

The surcingle is a piece of equipment that is placed around the horse's belly, without a saddle, to allow for different types of ground work, lunging, long reining, or, in its specific version, equestrian vaulting. It provides a functional alternative to the saddle when you want to work the horse unmounted, while maintaining stable and precise equipment. Depending on its use, the surcingle can be simple or technical, especially when intended for vaulting.

What is a surcingle used for?

A surcingle allows you to:
• girth the horse without a saddle,
• have multiple attachment points for lunging aids,
• work the horse from the ground precisely,
• provide secure support for certain disciplines.

It is used when the goal is to work the horse without a rider, or without the bulk of a saddle, while maintaining good control of the equipment.

Surcingle (ground work, lunging, and long reining)

The classic surcingle is mainly used for:
• lunging,
• long reining,
• attaching certain suitable training aids,
• structured ground work.

It is equipped with several attachment rings, positioned on the top and sides, allowing for precise adjustment of the equipment used (lunge lines, training aids, long reins). Surcingles are mainly distinguished by their materials (leather, nylon, sheepskin, textile, etc.) and their number of rings, their function remaining broadly the same: to offer a stable, comfortable, and versatile support for unmounted work.

Vaulting Surcingle

The vaulting surcingle is a specific and technical piece of equipment, designed exclusively for equestrian vaulting. It is characterized by:
• a reinforced structure,
• integrated solid handles,
• a design capable of supporting the vaulter's weight and movements,
• maximum stability on the horse's back.

Unlike the classic surcingle, it is designed for intensive athletic use and is a central element of the vaulter's safety and the horse's comfort.

Materials and Comfort

Surcingles come in different materials, chosen according to the desired use:
• leather: robustness, durability, excellent long-term wear,
• nylon or synthetic materials: lightness, easy maintenance,
• sheepskin linings or textiles: increased comfort and reduced rubbing.

A good surcingle should always:
• stay securely in place,
• not hinder breathing,
• avoid pressure points,
• be adjusted gradually.

How to correctly put on a surcingle?

A surcingle should always be placed with an intermediate layer between the horse's back and the equipment. Before installing the surcingle, it is recommended to place a saddle pad or a surcingle pad specifically designed for this purpose.

This protection allows for:
• protecting the horse's back,
• absorbing sweat,
• limiting rubbing and chafing.

Installation steps:
1. Position the pad slightly in front of the withers, then slide it back to follow the direction of the hair.
2. Place the surcingle over it, well centered, at the natural girth position.
3. Girth gradually, without overtightening from the start.
4. Check that the surcingle does not compress the withers, does not hinder breathing, and remains stable without turning.

A well-adjusted surcingle should be firm but comfortable, allowing the horse to move freely while keeping the equipment in place.

How to choose your surcingle?

The choice of a surcingle primarily depends on:
• the type of work (lunging, long reining, vaulting),
• the discipline practiced,
• the horse's size and morphology,
• the desired level of comfort.

A classic surcingle does not replace a vaulting surcingle, and vice versa: each model is designed for a very specific use.

A key tool for unmounted work

The surcingle is an essential piece of equipment for working the horse without a saddle. Correctly chosen and well-adjusted, it allows for precise, safe, and horse-friendly work, whether from the ground or in vaulting.