Equestrian tack, which is also called horse tack, is any equipment and accessories that is worn by a horse that is domesticated. Saddles, bridles, bits, stirrups, halters, driving harness, reins, martingales and breastplates are equestrian tacks. Equestrian tacks are found or bought in a saddlery, which carries supplies for riders and horses. The words tacking up refer to equipping of horse with tack, such as grooming and putting on the riding equipment.

One of the primary pieces of tack is the saddle, which refers to the supportive structure used by riders in riding horses. Saddles have several types, such as English saddles and Western saddles. These groups of saddles include different kinds of saddles that are used for the different disciplines in riding. For example, a dressage saddle, which is one type of English saddle, is used specifically for dressage discipline.

A bridle refers to an equestrian tack that is fitted to a horses head, which is used by the riders to direct horses. It features headstall, which holds the bit, and reins, which are attached to the bit. The bit is the part of the bridle that goes in the mouth of the horse. But not all bridle have bits, some have nosebands instead.

A stirrup refers to the ring with flat bottom that hang on the side of the saddle by an adjustable strap. Typically, there are two stirrups that hang on either side of the saddle, which are used to support the rider. Stirrups provide great stability and aid the rider in mounting.

A halter, also known as headcollar, is a headgear that consists of a noseband and headstall that buckles around the horses head. It fits behind the ears and around the muzzle. This allows the horse to be led or tied. Usually, a lead rope or lead shank is attached to allow riders handle the horse.

A rein is a leather strap or rope that is attached to a bridle via either a bit or a noseband. It is used to direct a horse for riding or driving. It is the means by which a rider communicates directional commands to the horses head. The most common materials used in making reins are leather, nylon and metal.

A harness is an equestrian tack that allows a horse to pull carriages, wagon, sleighs, sledge and other horse-drawn vehicles. Harnesses have two main categories: the breaststrap design, also known as breastcollar, and the collar and hames design. The breaststrap was designed to be used in lighter loads, while the collar and hames are for heavy draft work.

Martingale refers to a part of horse harness that connects the girth to the reins to keep the horse form throwing its head back. It is also used to control the horses head height. There are two common types of martingale. There is the standing martingale, which is also known as head check, and the running martingale, which is sometimes called the ring.

A breastplate is an equestrian tack that is attached to the front of the saddle, across the horses chest. It usually has a strap that runs between the horses front legs and attaches to the girth. Also known as breastcollars and breastgirths, it is used to keep the saddle from sliding back or sideways.

Tags: Horses