Show Tack

Bridles: There are two basic types. A one ear or split eared bridle is convenient and easy to use and shows off a good horse that is willing and responsive. Young or less predictable horses are better off in conventional brow band bridle. Bits: Snaffle bits have no leverage and only allow the rider to exert a direct pull on the corners of the mouth. Curb bits provide additional leverage and come in a variety of designs from the jointed shank snaffle through to high port bits. The height and width of the port and lengths of shank directly affect the amount of pressure that can be applied and these bits must be carefully chosen and matched to the horse. Reins: There are basic types with the most common being split reins known as Texas reins. These are carried with the reins entering the top of the reining hand between thumb and second finger with forefinger placed between them. The remainder of the reins should come out of the bottom of the hand and be allowed to hang down on same side as the reining hand. Closed Reins are known as California or Romal reins. They are similar to English reins but at the centre a further length of leather called a romal or quirt is attached for use as a whip but must not be used as such in the show ring. Bosal: Based on the original Spanish hackamore, this is a braided rawhide noseband which tapers to a large heel knot and which is attached to a conventional headstall. Plaited horsehair reins are attached around the knot. Saddle: The rigging and terminology of western saddles is very different from English saddles. They should, however, like English saddles still be chosen to fit both horse and rider although there is a much smaller range of sizes and the design or type of saddle is more the governing feature. The design of the saddle distributes the weight of the rider evenly over the horses back and is comfortable for many hours in the saddle. They are always worn with a rectangular saddle blanket or pad. Basic saddle designs vary for specific uses and styles vary from plain working to ornate show saddles decorated with leather tooling and silver.

 

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