New stirrup leathers...same size or shorter(with pictures)?

Question

Ok so I'm going to get new leathers, the ones I have right are are 3/4" wide, and SOO streched out that I measured and I get 55 1/2" which I'm guessing was 54" when they were new and unused lol. So I am wanting wider one's, so are 1"'s like this good or worse that 3/4"s?

http://www.doversaddlery.com/product.asp?pn=X1-06872

also what does the 'lined leathers' mean?

my next Q, should I get 48" leathers or stick with 54"? Because look how long my leathers are right now!

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t286/mordyci/Molly/PicturesFromCamera582.jpg (excuse the pic just look at how long the leather's are down Molly's side)

so do you think it's better to invest in longer ones, or shorter ones? I took off 7 1/2" s on the part that hangs down on my saddle (55 1/2" - 48" = 7 1/2") to see how short 48's would be, and it didn't look that bad.about 5 extra holes hanging down versus 9. idk please answer all my Q's, THANKS! I need to know so i can order!!

Answer 1

I would stick with the 48's..as long as you have some adjustment options.  I prefer to not see so much leather hanging down and flapping against the horse.

Lined means that they have a non-stretch backing sewed in so they will not stretch like your other ones.  This is a nice feature but sometimes can make the leathers thicker and bulkier.  I like the fact that these have the flat buckle to avoid bulk and bulge under the flap and doesn't rub your inner thigh.

The width is a matter of preference...I like a thinner and would go with the 3/4..it's not that much difference only a 1/4"....but has a more refined look.

In your picture though..your saddle pad has slipped and your saddle looks too forward on the horse. But overall nice picture...you and your pony are turned out very nicely!!

*******EDIT******

I just looked at the leathers again..did you notice that they are only available in 54" ?  A shame that you will now have to  pay extra to have them cut...I'm sure there must be others in the proper size??