Comparison of types of reins

In the equestrian performance at the zoo, I saw a rare type of reins

(As shown in the picture). Unlike the reins we often use, this type of reins consists of two separate reins, which not only sparked my thinking, but also what sets it apart from other reins? What are the advantages of using it?

According to the design classification of reins, they can be roughly divided into four types: single reins, double reins, segmented reins, and running reins. The structure of each type of reins is different, which also leads to different situations in which they are applicable.

Single Reins:

A single reins consists of a main reins and an armature.

The main reins are usually a continuous leather, nylon, or rubber strap with a length of approximately 1.5-2 meters. The length of the reins is usually adjusted according to the horse's body shape and riding style. This section of the belt often has anti slip patterns (such as rubber particles, woven patterns) to enhance grip strength. The middle section of the main reins is often designed with weaving joints or leather buckles to help the rider position the grip distance. The armature is a piece of iron located in the horse's mouth, used to assist in giving correct commands to the horse. The main reins are fixed to the armature ring of the water bottle through metal buckles or leather perforations. Part of the single reins have a final knot at the end to prevent slipping. This single reins is suitable for beginners and horses for initial training, with clear and direct signals. The lightweight single reins facilitate quick adjustment of the horse's direction in obstacle races. Due to its simple and efficient design, single reins have become the fundamental tool for the vast majority of equestrian systems. Proper use can effectively transmit rider commands while protecting the sensitivity of the horse's mouth.

Double Reins:

The double reins consist of two independent pairs of reins, a combination of armature and water lock. Two independent reins are the small armature reins and the large armature reins. The small armature is connected to the small armature, usually made of fine leather, which is relatively soft and used for auxiliary control of slight turning and lifting. The large armature is connected to the large armature, and the curved rod armature with lever action. The material is thick and hard (possibly with anti slip particles), used to emphasize overall balance and deceleration. When in use, the small armature reins maintain slight contact, while the large armature reins only apply pressure when needed. Two pairs of reins are often distinguished by color or texture (such as small armature reins being thinner and large armature reins being thicker). Each pair of reins is independently fixed on the corresponding armature ring, and the rider needs to grip them separately (the small armature reins are on the outside, and the large armature reins are on the inside).

The armature combination consists of a small armature and a large armature. The small armature is located at the upper part of the horse's mouth and functions similarly to a regular single reins armature; The large armature is located at the lower part of the horse's mouth and applies pressure through the lever principle (cheek bar+lip chain). The double reins need to be paired with double armature water clamps, including additional small armature fixing rings and cheek support. To wear an armature on a horse, the tension of the lip chain should be moderate (usually leaving 1-2 finger gaps).

The dual reins, through two sets of armature systems that collaborate through division of labor, allow riders to simultaneously perform directional adjustments and power control. It is a key tool for advanced equestrian pursuit of "horse horse unity", but must be operated by experienced riders. Riders require a high degree of coordination, and incorrect use may cause confusion or mouth injuries to the horse. Novice horses or untrained horses are not recommended to use double reins directly.

Laced/Braided Reins:

Segmented reins are commonly used in Western riding, long-distance cycling, polo, and other situations that require a stable grip. The main reins of segmented reins are similar to those of single reins. The middle of the reins is woven with leather strips or nylon ropes to form segmented protrusions (similar to "knots"), with intervals of about 5-10 centimeters between each segment. Its function is to increase the friction of the rider's hands and prevent the reins from slipping (especially when wearing gloves or on rainy days). The armature is also similar to a single reins, fixed to the armature ring through metal buckles or leather perforations. Especially in terms of material,

Segmented reins are commonly used in Western equestrianism, polo, and long-distance cycling, with the purpose of preventing slipping and providing precise control over the reins.

Running Reins/Draw Reins:

Rune is a temporary training tool that assists in adjusting the horse's head posture and body balance through special wearing techniques, commonly used in equestrian training. The armature end of the running reins is connected to the horse's carrying iron; The middle sliding ring passes through the saddle ring or the cheek belt of the saddle, forming a sliding mechanical fulcrum. The rider holds the reins or attaches them to the riding belt.

Running reins are often used to correct posture issues such as holding the horse's head high or avoiding the reins, and can also help young horses understand the concept of being held. Each training session should not exceed 15-20 minutes to avoid muscle fatigue in the horse. Excessive tightening can cause excessive bending of the horse's neck, compressing the trachea or spine. Long term use may weaken the horse's autonomous balance ability.

The four types of reins have their own advantages and disadvantages, and are commonly used in different scenarios. For example, as riders in track obstacle races, we usually use a single halberd, and sometimes we may also use a secondary reins under the main reins to help the horse lower its head and adjust its running and jumping posture for better performance. Usually, coaches also use reins to let the horse run in a circle on its own, and within this circle, the horse will gradually adjust its rhythm and state. When using a running reins, there is usually no rider riding on it, so the horse can regain its correct running state on its own. Some coaches may use reins during the rider's first few classes to prevent the horse from running too far beyond the rider's control, which can give the rider a greater sense of security. There are also some safety hazards in doing so. Once the rider falls off the horse, the horse will continue to move forward in this circle. If the horse does not stop in time, it is very likely to step on the rider who has just fallen off the horse.

In addition to the type of reins, the material of the reins also directly affects the rider's handling experience, horse comfort, and service life.

Leather reins:

The leather reins are soft and smooth, with a high fit to the rider's hand, suitable for precise command transmission. High quality leather has a service life of over 10 years. The disadvantage is that it needs to be cleaned and oiled regularly (1-2 times a month) to avoid drying, cracking, or mold growth. Rainy days can easily absorb water and harden, so it needs to be dried in a timely manner. The price is usually 2-3 times that of synthetic materials. This type of reins is commonly used in advanced dressage, horse racing competitions, classical horsemanship, and more.

Rubber reins:

The rubber particles or coating on the surface of the rubber reins provide ultimate grip strength, suitable for sweating or rainy days. It can be washed directly without special maintenance. Affordable price, suitable for daily training. However, long-term use may cause hand abrasions and a decrease in elasticity in cold environments, making it prone to breakage. This type of reins still lacks the elegant texture of leather.

Synthetic material reins:

The weight of the synthetic material reins is only half that of leather, making them suitable for long-distance cycling or humid areas. The price is between leather and rubber, with a high cost-effectiveness. The problem is that long-term exposure to ultraviolet radiation can cause embrittlement, and the feedback on the pressure on the horse's mouth is not as delicate as leather.

These three are the most common materials for reins in equestrian training, and suitable materials can be selected based on training frequency, weather conditions, horse personality, and other factors. Regardless of the type of reins used, regular checks for wear and tear are necessary.

Professional equestrian athletes or frequent racing riders mostly use leather reins, one reason being that they are aesthetically pleasing, and this type of reins is relatively comfortable and flexible to use. Most novice riders use rubber reins or synthetic material reins because these two types of reins are relatively inexpensive. I personally feel that these two types of reins are not very comfortable to use. The rubber reins are very hard and difficult to grip in the hand; Synthetic material reins are usually thin and easy to hold in the hand (the reins fall off because they are not held), making them less suitable for competitive matches.

There is no such thing as the best reins, but rather the most suitable for personal riding training. Choosing the most suitable reins can not only improve training efficiency, but also ensure the safety of the horse and horse.