Side Reins: Lunging and Auxiliary Reins for an Even Contact

Side Reins: auxiliary reins for the lunge

Side reins connect the bit rings at the side to the lunging roller or saddle. They give the horse an even contact on the lunge and help it to lift and round its back. We stock side reins with rubber rings, in leather and nylon, with fixed and elastic sections from BUSSE, STAR and Kerbl. They are joined by Lauffer reins, the Chambon, neck stretchers, long reins and clips for side reins.

Clipping them on correctly

Only clip on side reins once your horse has warmed up. Both sides are adjusted to the same length, sometimes one hole shorter on the inside rein. The length is right when the front of the face stays in front of the vertical when the horse is standing. Unclip them when leading and during breaks. Rubber rings or elastic inserts cushion sudden movements, but they are no substitute for a sensible length.

Chambon, Lauffer and long reins

The Chambon acts on the poll and invites the horse to lower its head. Lauffer reins run from the roller through the bit rings and give more freedom of movement than fixed side reins. Neck stretchers work with elastic and encourage stretching. Long reins are used for working from the ground behind or beside the horse. All of these aids require know-how and should first be tried out under guidance.

Frequently asked questions

How long should side reins be?
Long enough that your horse stands with the front of its face in front of the vertical and can stretch a little. Side reins that are too short force the head backwards. It is better to start too long and adjust in small steps.

Rubber ring or fixed, which is kinder?
Rubber rings cushion sudden movements and give a little. Fixed side reins provide a more consistent contact, which some trainers prefer. For young or restless horses, many people choose elastic side reins.

Can you ride with side reins?
Under a rider, side reins are used at most for lunge lessons for riding pupils. They do not belong in free riding or out hacking, because the horse needs its head to keep its balance. When jumping they are dangerous.