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Side Reins for Horses: Stable Frame and Steady Contact

Ensure a constant contact when lunging. Discover high-quality side reins made of leather with elastic rubber donuts for horse-friendly boundaries.

Side Reins: A Steady Contact on the Lunge

Classic side reins are among the best-known auxiliary reins. They consist of two separate straps that connect the horse's mouth directly to the girth or lunging roller. In contrast to sliding systems like the triangle rein, side reins provide a fixed lateral boundary and a constant frame. They are excellent for offering the horse a quiet, steady contact, especially when the horse is learning to run straight on a circle.

The Rubber Donut: A Must for Elasticity

Because side reins are rigid by nature, good models almost always feature an integrated rubber ring (rubber donut) or elastic insert. This is extremely important! It softly absorbs the natural nodding movements of the horse's head in walk and canter. Without this elastic element, the horse would feel a harsh jerk in its mouth with every step and would tense up in the jaw. The rubber ring essentially simulates a yielding, soft rider's hand.

Areas of Application: Vaulting and Beginner Lessons

Side reins have a firm place in the sport of vaulting. Since vaulters perform gymnastics on the horse's back and do not hold reins, the side reins ensure that the horse canters in an absolutely constant, calm frame. They are also frequently used in beginner riding lessons so that students can learn the rhythm of the rising trot while the horse confidently steps into the steady contact provided by the auxiliary rein.

Frequently Asked Questions

How high should side reins be attached?
The height of attachment on the girth determines the elevation. For normal forward-downward work, they are attached about a hand's width above the point of the shoulder. The higher they are buckled, the more collection is created.

How do I find the correct length?
Side reins must never be too short! The length is correct when the horse's nose is still a hand's width in front of the vertical when maintaining a light contact with the bit. The horse must not be pulled with its chin to its chest.

Can side reins be used for hacking out?
No. Just like when jumping, firmly buckled auxiliary reins are extremely dangerous out hacking. If the horse trips, it cannot use its neck to balance and, in the worst case, will fall.

The Reliable Auxiliary Rein for Lunging and Vaulting

A classic side rein offers your horse a clear, calm frame. Especially when lunging, vaulting, or in beginner lessons, this auxiliary rein helps the horse find balance on a curved line and accept a steady contact.

To ensure that the contact with the sensitive horse's mouth always remains soft and springy, our side reins are made of supple leather equipped with robust rubber donuts. Thanks to numerous holes, the straps can be adjusted exactly to your horse's needs on both sides. Find the ideal equipment for your groundwork now.