What's a Roper Cinch?

Ever wondered what a roper cinch was and what it was for? Let's clear things up. 

A roper cinch is wider in the center than at the ends. The purpose is to provide more support for the saddle and horse when the rider is roping cattle. The wider surface area provides more stability and distributes the pressure better.

A roper cinch should not be pulled very tight except when roping. Because it covers so much surface area, using a tightened roping cinch when not roping can cause a corset effect on your horse.

Roper cinches have become popular in recent years. Some folks mistakenly believe they're gentler on the horse. Not true. They're very constricting and should only be used when roping. For other riding, a straight cinch will keep your horse much happier.