Breastplate: A Secure Saddle Uphill, Across Country and Over Fences

Breastplate: keeping the saddle firmly in place

A breastplate connects saddle and girth across the horse's chest and stops the saddle from sliding backwards. This is especially helpful across country, when jumping and on horses with low withers. We stock Waldhausen X-Line breastplates Professional, with elastic, Work and with a long bridge, the Secutrust breastplate with safety strap, Covalliero breastplates in leather, Reflex and LED, and BUSSE TAKE-OFF.

Freedom of movement for the shoulder

A breastplate must not restrict the shoulder. There should be room for a flat hand between chest and strap, and the strap connecting it to the girth must not be so short that it hinders the front legs. Elastic inserts give a little with every canter stride. Models with a long bridge suit horses with a broad chest. Many breastplates have a ring where you can clip on a martingale attachment.

Visibility and safety

With the Covalliero Reflex and LED breastplates you are seen earlier at dusk. The Secutrust breastplate has a safety strap you can hold on to if your horse stumbles or makes an unexpected jump, without falling into its mouth. The WINTEC breastplate ring allows flexible attachment. Check leather and buckles regularly, because strong forces are at work out across country.

Frequently asked questions

Does my horse actually need a breastplate?
If your saddle fits well and does not slip, it is not essential. In hilly country, when jumping or on horses with little wither, though, it is a sensible safeguard. If the saddle slips a lot, have the fit checked.

How do I fit a breastplate correctly?
The breast piece lies centrally on the chest with room for a flat hand underneath. The straps to the saddle attach to the front D-rings, and the centre strap runs between the front legs to the girth. Nothing should pull tight when your horse stretches its front legs.

Can I attach a martingale to a breastplate?
On many models you can, via a ring in the centre of the breast piece. That is where you clip on a martingale attachment. Make sure the rings hang loosely when your horse carries its head normally.