Horse Harness : What is it?
 The horse harness originated in China during the Warring States Period in 300 B.C, and it is considered as one of the greatest inventions in history. They were initially used on oxes, and were designed with a central pole and two yokes that rested conveniently on the ox’s hump. Because of the anatomical differences between oxen and horses, the throat-and-girth harness system was invented for horses. However, this type of harness system was inefficient and dangerous, oftentimes suffocating a horse when it attempted to pull against it.
The next harness system invented was the breast-strap harness. This system allowed a single horse to pull a vehicle with as many as four adults onboard. It was composed of a bridle headpiece, blinkers, a throatlash, a browband, reins, a noseband, a brake strap, a breastplate, breeching straps, a hip strap, shaft loops, saddle and tug connectors, and a saddle. Modern horse harnesses still use this system, but they have evolved to accommodate single and double driving styles. |
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Kinds of Horse Harnesses include the following:
Leather horse harness
A leather horse harness is made up of genuine leather fittings and chrome hardware.
It is composed of a bridle, breast collar and traces, driving lines, shaft holders, saddle, turn back, blinders, a bellyband, hold back straps, a breeching, and a cupper.
It requires regular oiling and polishing to retain its suppleness and shine.
Leather horse harnesses are ideal for single driving, leisure riding, and show competitions.
Synthetic horse harness
A synthetic horse harness is made up of strong stainless steel fittings and adjustable buckles. It has polymer straps that resemble the look and feel of genuine leather.
It is easier to clean and does not need regular oiling and polishing.
Most synthetic horse harnesses have flexible saddletree that conform to the body shape of different horse breeds and provide adequate clearance from the spine.
Because of its durability, it is ideal for pleasure driving, competitions, and training.
It is available in different trims and lining colors.
Nylon horse harness
A nylon horse harness is made of heavy-duty nylon. It has adjustable buckles and comes with a crupper, shaft holders, shaft guides, breaching, reins, holdbacks, an overcheck bridle, breast tugs and collar, and a saddle. It is ideal for single riding, leisure riding, and training. Nylon horse harnesses are used for ponies and adult horses five-and-a-half to six feet long. It is extremely durable and easy to maintain. |
Size: Choose a pony harness for horses weighing less than 800 pounds, a regular harness for horses weighing 800 to 1,400 pounds, and a draft horse harness for horses weighing more than 1,400 pounds.
Budget: Choose a synthetic harness if you want something affordable yet durable. Get an expensive yet attractive leather harness if you want to show off your new carriage or horse breed. |
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