Reins & Auxiliary Reins: A Soft Connection and Support in Training

Reins & Auxiliary Reins: connection and support

The rein is the direct connection between your hand and your horse's mouth. Under Reins & Auxiliary Reins you will find riding reins in leather, webbing and rubber, breastplates, martingales, triangle reins, side reins and draw reins. This page also lists martingales, neck stretchers and martingale covers directly. All of these items have one job: they should support communication with your horse, not replace it.

Using auxiliary reins with know-how

Auxiliary reins can be useful, for example when lunging or when correcting a horse that hollows and lifts its head a lot. They belong in experienced hands, though, and are always adjusted so the horse can keep the front of its face in front of the vertical and stretch. Only clip them on after warming up, use them for a limited time and unclip them when leading. Auxiliary reins fitted too short force a posture and do more harm than good.

Keeping the saddle secure

A breastplate keeps the saddle in place on uphill stretches and over fences. A martingale limits how high your horse can throw its head and protects you from being hit in the face. Rein stops on the reins prevent the rings from sliding down to the bit and getting caught. Covers made of sheepskin or neoprene cushion the places where straps rub.

Frequently asked questions

How long should riding reins be?
Long enough that you can let them slide through your hands comfortably on a long rein without them hanging down into your horse's legs. Pony, cob and full are the usual sizes. For a long neck or for hacking, many riders go one size up.

Which auxiliary reins are suitable for lunging?
Side reins and triangle reins are the most common choices. Both should be long enough for your horse to stretch forwards and down. The first time you use them, have an experienced trainer show you how to clip them on correctly.

Can I go hacking with auxiliary reins?
Side reins and draw reins do not belong out hacking, because they restrict the horse if it stumbles. A martingale or breastplate, on the other hand, is often used out on rides. Make sure your horse can move its head freely to keep its balance.