What is the purpose of a surcingle?
The surcingle is commonly used for longeing, often as a base from which to attach training equipment such as side reins, overcheck, lauffer reins (sliding side reins), or chambons. A surcingle is also important in long lining or ground driving, as it provides rings for the long reins to run through.
What is a surcingle on a saddle?
Simply put, a surcingle is a belt-like device that is fastened around the girth area of a horse, just behind the withers and shoulder area to keep driving, riding or training equipment in place. Long lines are attached to the ring on the bridle, or cavesson, and strung through the D-rings of the surcingle.
How tight should a surcingle be?
Make sure to get the surcingle snug, similar to fastening a girth, so that it cannot slip out of place while you are using it. You do not want your surcingle to slide or move while in use.
How does a Cavesson work?
Placed beneath your bridle, a cavesson consists of a hanger and noseband, and provides just enough space for your horse to open his mouth, but not so much that he can avoid your riding signals. This teaches him to keep his mouth closed as he responds.
How tight should the belly straps be on a horse blanket?
Make sure belly straps hang no more than four inches below the horse and you can slip no more than a single mittened hand between the chest strap and your horse. Larger gaps risk hoof entrapment when the horse lies down. Straps that are too tight will not only be uncomfortable for the horse, but can tear fabric.
Is my horse blanket too small?
“If you cannot bring them together at all or if you can see more than 2-3 inches of the horse’s rump on either side of the tail, then the blanket is too small.” Test the width using the horse’s movement. The shoulders should move easily at the walk, and the blanket should not pull when the horse lowers his head to eat.
Are side reins cruel?
Used improperly, side reins and draw reins can cause a horse to habitually shorten his stride, stiffen or overbend to evade contact, and become heavy on the forehand; They can also make him sore in the neck and back.
Can you ride in a cavesson?
A cavesson is a tool that you can use on your horse during lunging, ground work and bitless riding.