Horse halters are an essential part of tack that allow riders to safely secure and lead their horses. Riders rely on different halters for different purposes and situations, but all halters keep both rider and horse safe and in communication with each other. There are several types of horse halters:
Horse halters are a vital piece of equipment in and out of the barn. When choosing a halter, consider the specific situation you need it for, such as transport or grooming, and always make sure the halter fits your horse correctly.
A halter is what you use to catch, lead, tie, or handle a horse. It’s essential for everyday tasks like grooming, vet checks, and groundwork—basically anytime you need to safely work with your horse from the ground.
The different types of horse halters are show halters, grooming halters, shipping halters, and leather and nylon halters.
Put on a horse halter by first unbuckling it attaching the lead rope to it. Start on the left side and slowly guide the halter's nosepiece over your horse's muzzle, then pull the headstall over and behind his ears. It may help to use your right hand to gently guide your horse's head toward you so he doesn't pull away. Then, secure the halter using the attached fasteners. Be sure to calm and soothe your horse throughout the process and proceed slowly to avoid spooking him. Some people like to begin by looping the lead line loosely around the horse's neck for better control.
Take your horse’s measurements to know what size halter they need. Measure the circumference of your horse’s nose (right beneath their cheekbones), the distance between their cheekbone and poll (the area right behind their ears), and the distance from one cheekbone up to their poll, and back down to the other cheek. Compare these measurements to the size guides provided with each halter. Typical sizes include Foal, Weanling, Yearling, Pony, Horse (Average), Cob, Warmblood, and Draft.
A horse halter should fit securely, but not so tightly that it’s uncomfortable or painful for horses. As a general rule, you should be able to slide two or three fingers beneath the noseband of a horse halter, and the halter should be able to slip on and off easily.
Rope or nylon halters are better depending on what you’re using them for and your individual horse. Riders prefer rope halters for training because they’re thinner and offer more subtle control. Nylon halters are preferred for everyday use because they can be more comfortable and breakaway halters are designed to break when a horse gets caught on something.