The chest strap (sometimes called a breast plate) works with the cinches to ensure that the saddle stays in place when going up steep inclines with heavy loads. It also keeps the saddle from being stripped off the rear of the leading animal in a pack string. Use of the chest strap and breeching is recommended on all saddles when packing heavy loads in mountainous terrain. These straps may seem complicated at first, but taking a few extra minutes to learn how to use them will save you time and frustration in the long run. Your animal will quickly learn to accept the chest strap and breeching, so don’t take “no” for an answer. Our chest straps are made of 1/4" felt sewn to strong, soft, nylon webbing. Strong, solid brass metal snaps clip to the saddle’s "D" rings, and adjust with Super Loc adjusting buckles. (We have designed a chest strap specifically for goats, so please select the CHEST-Goat option if you will be using the system with goats.)