Draw Reins: Auxiliary Reins for Experienced Riders with Quiet Hands

Draw Reins: leverage that calls for responsibility

Draw reins run from the girth through the bit rings and back to the rider's hand. This creates a pulley effect that considerably strengthens the rein aid. They are always ridden together with a normal rein. We stock BUSSE BASIC-SNAPS, BASIC-KORDEL and SOLIBEL draw reins, the Kerbl webbing draw reins, Waldhausen X-Line, STAR draw reins in leather and webbing, lunging draw reins and Thiedemann reins.

Only with know-how

Draw reins belong exclusively in the hands of experienced riders with an independent seat. They can help in the short term to correct a horse that hollows and lifts its head a lot. Used wrongly, they pull the head down and back and cause tension. That is why the draw rein is carried loosely and only taken up briefly when needed. The front of the horse's face stays in front of the vertical. If you are unsure, involve a trainer before using them for the first time.

Versions compared

Cord draw reins slide easily through the bit rings and release quickly. Webbing and leather versions act a little more directly. Snaps make them easier to attach to the girth. Lunging draw reins run from the roller through the bit rings and back when lunging, while Thiedemann reins combine a martingale with draw reins. Draw reins have no place out hacking or over fences.

Frequently asked questions

How do I fit draw reins correctly?
Traditionally they are attached at the side of the girth under the saddle flaps, not between the front legs. They run from the inside to the outside through the bit rings and up to your hand. The draw rein hangs loosely, while the normal rein carries the main contact.

Are draw reins cruel?
Not in themselves, but they can do harm if used incorrectly. In experienced, quiet hands and used for a short time, they can support a correction. Ridden permanently or too short, they force an outline and put strain on the neck and back.

What is the difference from Thiedemann reins?
Thiedemann reins combine a martingale with a pulley through the bit rings. They are often used in jump training. They too belong only in the hands of experienced riders.