Everything you need to know about hackamores

In the equestrian world, hackamores are seen as horse-friendly innovations. If you're still unsure about trying this trend with your horse, you can find out more in the lines below.

Hackamores! What are they?

The hackamore is a system for controlling the horse that suits long hacks and schooling sessions between experienced riders and horses they already know well. The idea is to find a way of freeing up the horse and giving yourself a light, simple means of steering. The look of a hackamore varies from model to model. Generally speaking, though, a hackamore has a noseband that wraps around the horse's nose. Beyond that, there is a fitting for the reins, which connects the system to the rider in the saddle.

Professionals distinguish two main types of hackamore. Long-shanked hackamores are the most widely used, for their flexibility and light weight. Whatever the maker, these hackamores are also the sturdiest. Short-shanked hackamores are very severe. You need to think carefully about which horse to use them on.

Hackamores: how to choose

To choose a hackamore, you first need to consider your requirements and take stock of the situation. To begin with, the horse should be examined to determine whether using a hackamore is justified. He may have an injury in his mouth, or have become too sensitive, or very attuned to his rider. All of this will guide your choice, right down to the model of hackamore. If you're thinking of choosing a short-shanked hackamore, you'll need to have a perfect command of it, otherwise the horse could be injured very quickly.

Hackamores: how to fit them

Before fitting a hackamore, it's best to check the horse for lesions and injuries. As a rule, the hackamore sits just above the horse's nostrils, so that he can breathe freely. As for the curb chain, aim for a 45-degree angle for maximum comfort in use. That way the shanks won't apply sudden or severe pressure in the wrong direction on the horse.

For the reins, it's advisable to choose a fairly generous length for ideal comfort. The horse will be able to follow instructions instinctively before the rider's pressure becomes harsh.

Hackamores: advantages

Hackamores are bits for horses that don't go into their mouths. It's a straightforward alternative that lets the horse graze and open his mouth without any trouble. It's a piece of tack used by trail riders and show jumping professionals alike. With a hackamore, you offer more comfort to your horse, who is able to recover fully from a mouth injury. What's more, with a piece of equipment like this your position is more elegant, since there's no longer a bit to pull on. In that case, it's better to choose long-shanked hackamores. They are sturdier and better looking, and above all lighter for the horse.