When it comes to horse equipment, there are a lot of choices to make. One of the most important pieces of essential gear is the horse halter. Are you looking for the best horse halter? There are many different types and styles of halters on the market, so how do you know which one is best for your horse? In this article, we’ll cover the factors you should consider as well as all the different types of halters on the market. Best of luck on your journey to find the perfect halter!
Why Your Horse Needs the Right Halter
Horse halters are horse equipment that is used for a variety of purposes. It can be used to lead, guide and control the horse. An everyday halter is extremely important to have on hand. You’ll likely use it every time you see your horse!
Halters might also be called horse leads, horse ropes or horse head collars. They are made of a variety of materials, from leather or nylon, and come in many different styles and colors to suit the needs of you and your horses.
Popular Types of Halters for Horses
There are many different types of horse halters on the market. The type you need depends on the use you have for it.
Nylon Halters
The most common horse halter is the nylon web halter. Nylon halters are inexpensive, durable and versatile. These basic halters can be used for everyday use like leading your horse to and from the pasture and grooming in the cross ties.
Rope Halters
Rope horse halters are normally made of knotted poly rope. They feature knots across the noseband, which apply pressure to the horse’s nose, making them great for training. The knots on rope halters offer you more contact that nylon or leather halters do. Some trail riders keep a rope halter under their horse’s bridle to easily tie them.
Leather Halters
If you’re looking for something a little more luxurious, leather horse halters are a great option. They are made of high-quality leather and are great for showing. Weaver Leather halters are a very popular choice. If you love your leather tack, this is a great option for you.
Breakaway Halter
A breakaway horse halter is a horse halter that is designed to release if the horse pulls back on it. This type of horse halter is popular because they help to prevent the horse from getting injured in case of emergency. You might use a breakaway halter in the crossties or when traveling, for example. A regular halter doesn’t feature straps that break easily.
Padded Halter
Padded halters are horse halters that have a piece of padding on the noseband and other straps. This is more comfortable and helps reduce pressure on any sensitive areas on the horse’s face.
What Halter Does Your Horse Need?
The best halter for your horse depends on what you’re using it for. There are plenty of options out there, no matter what the use case.
Training Halter
A training halter often has knots across the noseband to offer additional pressure. The halter pressure can help you better direct your horse.
Grooming Halter
Grooming halters are often just a headstall and noseband and include clips so you can remove sections. These halters make it easier to groom your horse’s face, hence the name.
Halter for Trailering
When picking a halter for trailering, you’ll want to choose one that is easy to put on and take off and can break in case of emergency.
Foal Halter
Foals have different needs than grown horses, so foal halters come in special sizes.
Personalized Halter
Did you know you can order special custom halters? Personalized halters often feature engraved plates on the sides, making it easier to identify (or just show off) your horse.
Horse Halter Sizes
Whatever halter you choose, make sure it is the correct size so it will fit your horse. Most websites include sizing charts so you can get a better idea of what you’re buying. You can usually filter by size, material, and color to help narrow down your search.
There’s a wide variety of sizes available, but the most common halter sizes include:
- Cob
- Oversize (or Draft)
- Horse (or Full)
- Pony
- Foal
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Horse Halters
What is the difference between nylon web and polypropylene halters?
Although they are both synthetic materials and look similar, nylon webbing is stronger than polypropylene. If your horse is tough on halters, nylon may be the better choice.
How much does a horse halter cost?
A horse halter can run you between $15 and a few hundred dollars. It all depends on the type and quality of the halter.
When do I need to replace my horse’s halter?
You should replace your horse’s halter when it shows signs of wear and tear, such as fraying or cracking.
Should I use a halter for turnout?
We recommend not turning out your horse in a halter, as they may get caught on something and injure themselves.
Does English riding require a different halter than Western riding?
When riding, your horse is normally in a bridle so it shouldn’t matter what halter you use. If you are participating in showmanship, you may need a leather halter.
How do I take care of my horse’s halter?
You should clean horse halters with a damp cloth and mild, diluted detergent. Make sure to dry them completely before storing. If the halter is made of leather, you can condition it with a leather conditioner every few months.
How do I choose the right size of halter?
When choosing a horse halter, you’ll need to consider the size of your horse. You’ll want to make sure that the halter doesn’t fit too tightly and is adjustable enough to fit comfortably. You should consult the sizing chart offered by the company from which you’re purchasing your halter.
What is a throat snap halter?
Throat snap halters feature hardware at the horse’s throat, making them easy to take on and off.