The horse halter is probably the most basic of horse equipment and yet halters come in a variety of types, colors and configurations. So why all the options? Some horse halters are great for teaching leading and manners and some for traveling yet all are used for tying a horse up so we can groom, handle and tack up the horse.
Let’s take a look at the many horse halter options to see which one will suit your needs best. Brie at Riding Warehouse helps us get to know the various kinds of halters. Horse halters can be both fun and functional.
Hey, head’s up. Purchasing products through clicking the the links or product pics that follow may result in providing us a little kick-back money. To learn more see the affiliate disclaimer near the end of this story.
Horse Halter : Fun and Functional
Rope Horse Halters:
Rope horse halters are great for training young horses as they put pressure where the knots are tied. This style is good for pushy horses, again because of the pressure points. The flexibility and size also makes it easier to fit under a bridle when riding and super easy to stow in saddlebag.
RJ Manufacturing Rope Halter is a best-selling rope halter as it is SUPER supple and not stiff at all. The rope doesn’t fade or dry out like other rope halters. It’s also super easy to stuff in a saddlebag as it’s so pliable. Choose from 12 fun colors.
Cashel braided-nose rope halter constructed of a high-quality, soft braided nylon to keep your steed comfortable. This halter-lead combo is weather resistant and sturdy, so you can have greater control..
Specifically used for training, the Professionals Choice Clinician Halter has extra knots on the nose and the rope is thinner so pressure will be more direct. Also comes with a handy 15’ lead with a leather popper at the end.
Tough 1 Mule Tape halters do not offer added pressure but are technically made of rope. They are super smooth to the touch and are popular among western riders. These are good for well-trained horses.
Nylon Horse Halters:
The standard nylon halter– can be seen in almost every barn. This one is not adjustable but it does come in an adjustable version. Great for a well trained horse. Choose from six standard colors.
Padded Horse Halters:
The Centaur Fleece Cushion Nylon Breakaway Halter is for sensitive horses (helps prevent rubbing), traveling and for use in a cross tie. This one is also breakaway, which makes it the perfect traveling halter or in a cross tie. In case of extreme pressure the halter will breakaway so your horse won’t get hooked up by the halter. Choose from contrasting colors or monochromatic.
Combination Horse Halters:
For the best of both worlds, two materials – nylon and leather – are used. The Ovation Luxor Cushion-Flex Ergonomic Adjustable halter features generous padding at the crown, nose, cheeks, and throat which makes it perfect for those sensitive equines. Brass fittings provide an elegant appeal. Adjustable areas at the nose and crown as well as a clip at the throat makes it oh-so-easy to use.
Leather Horse Halters:
Economical Leather halter– if you’re looking for a leather halter than won’t break the bank Henri De Rivel Advantage Leather Halter is the one. It’s adjustable and comes with solid brass hardware that won’t rust over time.
Anatomic Leather Halter– Ergonomic tack is making huge waves in the equine industry. Who doesn’t want their horse to be more comfortable and relaxed? LeMieux Anatomic Padded Leather Halter’s anatomic details reduce pressure on the sensitive areas of the ears and poll ensuring your horse will feel just as good as he/she looks.
Western Show Horse Halters:
For western halter and showmanship classes, a fancy show halter is a must. Tory Leather makes an Oklahoma Western Show Halter which is a beautiful halter at a good price and it comes with a matching lead.
Leadropes go hand-in-hand with halters. What are the different types of lead ropes and how are they used? Find out in our story: Simply a horse lead rope?
Product photos: Courtesy of Riding Warehouse
Cover and story photos: Sharon Jantzen Photos
Just so you know, clicking the above links takes you to the product on the Riding Warehouse website. This makes shopping easy and convenient for you. We do get a little kick-back from items purchased, giving us resources to bring you more stories, but your price stays the same. It’s a win-win! Standard shipping in CA is free from Riding Warehouse. However, local riders can choose to pick-up orders on-site. Just choose that option during checkout. Happy Trails!
Come horse around with us in San Luis Obispo County! There are so many ways to horse around in stunning SLO County. To keep this info at your fingertips we have developed a FREE Hot Sheet that will direct you to stories which tell you where you can trail ride, stay with your horse, show and taste. We’ll continue to add horsing around stories to our website. You can stay up-to-date by becoming a SLO Horse News herd member. Get your Horsing Around in SLO County Hot Sheet here >.
