13 best equestrian headstalls
Equestrian headstalls, also known as bridles, are fundamental pieces of tack used in horse riding to control and communicate with the horse. They consist of various components designed to fit around the horse's head and enable the rider to guide and direct the horse effectively. Here's what you need to know about equestrian headstalls:
Purpose:
- The primary purpose of an equestrian headstall, or bridle, is to provide a means of communication and control between the rider and the horse.It allows the rider to direct the horse's movements, turn, stop, and perform other commands.
Components:
- A typical equestrian headstall consists of several key components:
- Headpiece (Crown): The headpiece runs over the horse's poll (the area between the ears) and helps distribute pressure evenly.
- Browband: The browband runs across the forehead, helping to keep the bridle in place and providing stability.
- Bit: The bit is the mouthpiece of the bridle and is inserted into the horse's mouth. It is connected to the reins and allows the rider to communicate with the horse through rein pressure.
- Cheekpieces: These connect the headpiece to the bit and run down the sides of the horse's face.
- Throatlatch: The throatlatch fastens under the horse's throat, preventing the bridle from slipping over the horse's ears.
- Noseband: Some bridles have a noseband that encircles the horse's nose, providing additional control and preventing the horse from opening its mouth too wide.
- A typical equestrian headstall consists of several key components:
Types of Bridles:
- There are different types of bridles designed for various riding disciplines and preferences. Common types include:
- Snaffle Bridle: Features a bit with a jointed mouthpiece, providing direct communication with the horse.
- Double Bridle: Used in advanced dressage and includes both a snaffle bit and a curb bit for refined control.
- Western Bridle: Often simpler in design, used in Western riding styles, such as reining and cutting.
- Bitless Bridle: Does not include a bit and relies on pressure points on the horse's head for control.
- Bosal Bridle: A type of bitless bridle used in Western riding, employing a noseband called a bosal.
- There are different types of bridles designed for various riding disciplines and preferences. Common types include:
Materials:
- Equestrian headstalls are typically made from materials such as leather, synthetic materials, or a combination of both.
- Leather bridles are favored for their durability and traditional appearance, while synthetic bridles are often more affordable and easier to clean.
Proper Fitting and Adjustment:
- Proper fitting is crucial to ensure the horse's comfort and effective communication with the rider.
- The bridle should be adjusted to allow room for the horse to move its jaw and ears comfortably while keeping the bit in the correct position.
Maintenance:
- Bridles, especially those made of leather, require regular cleaning and conditioning to maintain their quality and prevent damage.
Equestrian headstalls or bridles are essential tools for horse riding, enabling riders to communicate with their horses effectively and safely. Selecting the appropriate type of bridle for the riding discipline and ensuring a proper fit are essential for the well-being of both the horse and rider.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best equestrian headstalls on the market
Teskey's Harness Browband Headstall with Snaps
Teskey's Saddle Shop
Product description
Teskey's harness browband headstall with snaps is perfect for everyday riding. Available in natural or heavy oil, the brass snap bit ends make this headstall easy to use.
- Brass Hardware
- Snap Bit Ends
- Natural or Heavy Oil
Showman Multi Color Navajo Beaded Leather Headstall, Breast Collar & Wither Strap Set! New Horse TACK!
Showman
Product description
Showman Navajo beaded headstall, breast collar and wither strap set. This set features medium oil leather with a multi color Navajo design beaded inlay with white buck stitch. Headstall features a wrapped beaded ear piece and beaded cheek inlays. Wither strap double scissor snap ends and adjusts 23" -29". Headstall comes with leather competition reins with conway buckle and swivel snap end.
- Medium Oil Leather w/ Multi Color Navajo Design Beaded Inlays
- Single Ear Headstall
- Wither Strap has Double Scissor Snap Ends & Adjust 23"- 29"
- Accented w/ White Buck Stitching & Engraved Hardware
- Leather Competition Reins w/ Conway Buckle & Swivel Snap End
Showman Black Leather Headstall & Breast Collar Set w/Copper Studs & Engraved Copper Conchos w/Reins! New Horse TACK!
Showman
Product description
Showman Black Leather Headstall & Breast Collar Set w/ Copper Studs & Engraved Copper Conchos w/ Reins. This set features double stitched black leather with cut out tear drop cheeks and browband. Accented with copper studs and engraved copper conchos with crystal rhinestones. Headstall comes with 5/8" x 7' leather split reins. For an average full size horse.
- Headstall & Breast Collar Set
- Double Stitched Black Leather w/ Cut Out Tear Drop Cheeks & Browband
- Accented w/ Copper Studs & Engraved Copper Conchos w/ Crystal Rhinestones
- Includes 5/8” x 7’ Leather Split Reins
- For an Average Full Size Horse
Tahoe Tack Plain Double Layer Nylon Headstall with Reins, Multiple Colors & Sizes Available
Derby Originals
Product description
Tahoe Tack’s “Pleasure Rider” series is composed of beautiful lather and nylon headstalls that are made with trail riding and other similar equestrian activities in mind. These halters are beautiful and high-quality, with durable, more plain designs that are suited to trail rides and pleasure riding. This series was designed with quality in mind and features classic western designs.
- QUALITY CONSTRUCTION - this headstall was designed by Tahoe Tack, a fine maker of quality western tack for over 20 years. It features durable hardware and high-quality leather that is designed to last many years with proper care.
- MULTIPLE SIZES AVAILABLE - this headstall is available in Cob/Arab, and Full Horse, and Draft sizing to accommodate most equines large or small.
- MULTIPLE COLORS AVAILABLE - this headstall and rein set is available in three nylon colors: Black, Purple, and Pink.
- MATCHING SPLIT REINS - this browband includes a pair of matching split reins that measure 79” long.
- GREAT FOR TRAILS - this headstall is ideal for trail riding, training, or riding lessons thanks to its sturdy but soft nylon construction.
User questions & answers
| Question: | what is the width of the webbing |
| Answer: | The headstall and reins are 3/4 inch with the exception of the browband which is 1 inch. |
| Question: | what is the width of the webbing |
| Answer: | The hardware is made of Nickle Plated steel. TackWholesale |
| Question: | What is the hardware made of |
| Answer: | I have used these headstalls on most all breeds and have found them to fit well. If they get dirty I pressure wash them and they come out looking like new. |
| Question: | I have a thoroughbred and two mustangs will these headstalls will fit them |
| Answer: | Yes they can be washed. Handash cycle and line dry. |
Product features
Double Layered Nylon Headstall with Matching Split Reins
Tahoe's nylon headstall and reins set is perfect for the everyday rider! This set is durable, attractive, easy to use, and easy to clean! It's lightweight construction gives your horse a more natural feel while riding.
Attractive & Easy To Use
Not only is this headstall attractive to look at and offered in multiple colors to match your existing set, but it is also extremely easy to use and clean! The quick change buckle bit ends make changing bits a snap! To clean this piece, simply hand wash the headstall and reins with a mild detergent, and allow to air dry.
Quality Construction
The double layer nylon is durable and sturdy. The browband helps keep the headstall in place and comfortable for your horse during long rides and ranch work.
Available in Multiple Colors & Sizes
This western bridle set is available in Dark Brown, Black, Pink, and Purple! These headstalls are also offered in multiple sizes including Cob/Arabian, Full/Average Horse, and Average Draft!
Pleasure Rider Series
Tahoe Tack’s “Pleasure Rider” series is composed of beautiful lather and nylon headstalls that are made with trail riding and other similar equestrian activities in mind. These halters are beautiful and high-quality, with durable, more plain designs that are suited to trail rides and pleasure riding. This series was designed with quality in mind and features classic western designs.
Showman Turquoise & Burgundy Cross Design Beaded Aztec Headstall & Breast Collar Set! New Horse TACK!
Showman
Product description
Showman Turquoise and Burgundy Beaded Aztec Headstall and Breast Collar Set. This set features medium leather with a cross design Aztec beaded overlay with turquoise, burgundy, white, and gold beads. Set is accented with copper floral conchos with turquoise stones and copper floral buckles. Set comes with single ear headstall, breast collar, and contest reins.
- Medium Oil Leather Single Ear Headstall, Breast Collar & Contest Reins Set
- Cross Design Aztec Beaded Overlay
- Turquoise, Burgundy, White & Gold Beads
- Copper Floral Conchos w/ Turquoise Stones & Copper Floral Buckles
- Average Full Size Horse
Weaver Leather Texas Star Collection
Weaver Leather
Product description
Weaver Leather Texas Star Breast Collar You might not want to mess with any horse wearing Weaver(R)'s Texas Star Collection! The Texas Star Breast Collar features an 18-carat gold-plated Texas star concho in the center of the collar, and is studded with nickel brass trim throughout. The durable, doubled and stitched breast pieces are made from beautiful premium English bridle leather in a rich chestnut or London tan. The snap is solid brass, while the other hardware is made from stainless steel. Features: Sturdy breast collar, doubled and stitched for strength Premium English bridle leather, burnished for weather resistance 18-carat gold plated Texas star concho Nickel and brass studded trim Solid brass snap Item Specifications: Width: Tapers from 11/4" - 1" Colors: Chestnut London Tan (lighter color) Please note: Color may vary due to tanning process
- Premium English Bridle Leather
- Doubled and Stitched Flat Sliding Ear
- Double Cheek Adjustments
- Texas Star Concho
- Made by Weaver Leather Mt. Hope, Ohio
- Sport type: Equestrian
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is there one clip on each side or no? Thanks |
| Answer: | We offer this bridle in brown only |
| Question: | Is there anyway I can get this exact thing in black |
| Answer: | Yes, you are able to adjust the headstall |
| Question: | Is there room to adjust I have a 17 hand walker standardbred will it fit |
| Answer: | I would contact Weaver-bet they'll replace it. |
| Question: | I bought this and one of the star conchos fell off, is there anywhere to buy another one |
| Answer: | 3/4” |
Product features
Unbeatable Quality
A consistent favorite with both show and trail riders.
Beautifully accented.
Star-studded look with nickel plated conchos adorned with a gold plated star.
Premium materials.
Chestnut premium English bridle leather with nickel brass spots for added visual appeal.
Showman Turquoise Nylon Headstall & Breast Collar Set w/Bronze Crocodile Print & Rhinestone Accents! New Horse TACK!
Showman
Product description
Showman Turquoise Nylon Headstall & Breast Collar Set w/ Bronze Crocodile Print & Rhinestone Accents. Conchos feature turquoise cross stones and turquoise tassels. For an average full size horse.
- Nylon Headstall & Breast Collar Set
- Turquoise w/ Bronze Crocodile Print & Rhinestone Accents
- Conchos Feature Turquoise Cross Stones & Turquoise Tassels
- For an Average Full Size Horse
Tahoe Leather Starry Night Studded Horse Headstall & Matching Reins, Black, Full Horse
Tahoe Tack
Product description
Tahoe Tack’s “Jewel of the West” collection was designed to dazzle in the show ring and is composed of only the most beautiful headstalls which are adorned with hand-tooled accents, conchos, show spots, crystals, and many other elegant features. These headstalls exemplify the beauty of fine western tack and are meant to highlight your horse’s features and allow you to stand out in the show ring. Full Horse (1000-1250lbs) Brow band: 17” Bit to Bit: 37.5” - 45.5” Reins: 88”
- QUALITY CONSTRUCTION - this headstall was designed by Tahoe Tack, a fine maker of quality western tack for over 20 years. It features durable hardware and high-quality leather that is designed to last many years with proper care.
- HORSE SIZE AVAILABLE - this headstall is available in Full Horse sizing to accommodate most average sized equines.
- MATCHING SPLIT REINS - this headstall includes a pair of matching split reins that measure 93” long.
- SILVER SPOTTING AND CONCHOS - this headstall is adorned with silver berry conchos on the browband and cheekpieces, and the browband, crown, and cheekpieces are also decorated with silver spotting.
- CHICAGO SCREW STYLE - this headstall features classic Chicago screw style ends, which makes adding or switching bits out as easy as can be.
User questions & answers
| Question: | is a curb strap included with my order? there should be one to match |
| Answer: | No, this set is only available in black unfortunately |
| Question: | do u have this set in brown |
| Answer: | Sorry, no Draft Horse size available. |
| Question: | Do you have size for draft horse |
| Answer: | The browband measures 17" |
| Question: | How many inches is the brow band |
| Answer: | Hello, there is only a clip on one side. |
Showman Pink & Silver Sequins Inlay Single Ear Leather Headstall & Breast Collar Set w/Reins! New Horse TACK!
Showman
Product description
Showman Pink & Silver Sequins Inlay Single Ear Leather Headstall & Breast Collar Set w/ Reins. This set features a medium colored leather with pink and silver sequins inlay. The sequins are pink on the front and silver on the back. This set is accented with crystal rhinestone conchos and buckles. Set includes 5/8" x 7' leather split reins. For an average full size horse.
- Single Ear Headstall & Breast Collar Set Features Medium Leather
- Pink & Silver Sequins Inlay
- Crystal Rhinestone Conchos & Buckles
- Includes 5/8" x 7' Leather Split Reins
- For an Average Full Size Horse
Circle Y Wrap Bead Browband Headstall
Circle Y Saddles Inc
Product description
Circle Y 5/8in Wrapped Beaded Browband Headstall Round wrapped Aztec beading on both brow and cheeks adds unique style to this straight browband. Size: Average Horse.
- Circle Y
- Browband Headstall
- Infinity Wrap Beading
- X0223 4069
Product features
WHY YOU SHOULD RIDE CIRCLE Y
Circle Y started hand crafting saddles in 1960 in the small Texas town of Yoakum. Still located there, Circle Y continues to produce high-quality saddles and tack with the heritage and traditions the company was founded on. Establishing this with stylish and innovative products, Circle Y products reflect the current trends in design that are ahead of the industry in technology.
CIRCLE Y Infinity Wrap Browband Headstall
Soft leather combines with infinity wrapped beading for a functional headstall that looks great on any horse.
This Infinity Wrap Browband Headstall has a variety of colors and beading to match with your saddle, tack, and horse's coat color.
Beading features an infinity wrap on the cheeks and browband, with easy to adjust buckles and tie ends.
The stainless steel hardware is durable and makes it easy to care for this headstall.
Equitem Full Horse Size Leather Headstall and Breast Collar Set with Teal Rawhide Wrap Accent
Equitem
Product description
Full horse size medium brown leather headstall and breast collar set. This headstall and breast collar set features a teal rawhide wrap accent. Headstall adjusts 41" to 44" bit to bit. Breast collar measures 26" to 28". Reins are not included.
- Full Horse Size
- Medium Brown Leather Headstall & Breast Collar
- Teal Rawhide Wrap Accent
- Bit to Bit 41" to 44"
Weaver Leather Turq Cross Browband Headstall
Turquoise Cross
Product description
Turquoise Cross Multicolor Embroidery Headstall Features Light oiled leather highlighted with Aztec diamond-style embroidery with brown, red and turquoise thread Made from genuine cowhide for quality you can trust Non-rust stainless steel hardware
- Ideal for everyday riding needs
- Water tie bit ends
- Durable nickel plated hardware
- Sports product
User questions & answers
| Question: | I have a average/large horse, 1000-1200lb and it doesnt seem to hit him. he has big feet and a big head. am i doing something wrong |
| Answer: | Yes, almost black |
| Question: | Is this head stall very dark brown |
| Answer: | It is definitely on the darker side. This is one of the cases where the picture is extremely accurate. We are very pleased, not only with he color, but the quality and value for the price. |
| Question: | Is this head stall real dark brown |
| Answer: | No, this item does not include a matching curb strap. This headstall includes matching split reins only. |
Product features
About Weaver Leather
Founded by Harry A. Weaver in 1973 as the Fryburg Shoe Shop, Weaver Leather grew from humble beginnings into a trusted manufacturer of a wide range of leather and nylon goods.
Today’s Weaver Leather is experiencing continual growth and caters to a variety of U.S. and international customers in the markets it serves including equine, livestock, pet, leather supply, and arborist,. While much has changed through the years, our steadfast commitment to our customers remains our top priority.
Many of our products are handcrafted in Mt. Hope, Ohio and feature the finest materials, skilled American workmanship and finishing touches for years of dependable performance.
Riders Dream Wade Tree A Fork Premium Western Leather Roping Ranch Work Adult Horse Saddle Tack with Matching Headstall, Breast Collar & Reins | Chestnut | Size 14 to 18 Inches Seat
A.H. saddlery
Product description
Riders Dream Wade Tree A Fork Premium Western Leather Roping Ranch Work Adult Horse Saddle Tack with Matching Headstall, Breast Collar & Reins | Chestnut | Size 14 to 18 Inches Seat Available
Our top selling leather colors are now available in this beautiful A-Fork wade tree roper! These wade tree roping saddle features hand-carved tooling that is designed on thick cowhide leather. The seat offers the perfect grip while roping cattle. The classic design of the saddle features shiny silver conchs and numerous ties for accessory attachments. The wide pie horn is reinforced with a mule hide wrapping for extra stability and durability. The underside of the saddle is well-padded with fleece for maximum horse comfort. 100% Heavy Duty Cowhide Leather Hand Carved Tooling Suede Seat Mule-Hide Wrapped Horn Numerous Accessory Ties Shiny Silver Sun Conchs Adjustable Stirrups Adjustable Blevins Buckles Well-Padded Fleece Underside Wade Tree Design Wood Base Tree Wrapped In Fiberglass.
Thank You & Have A Nice Day
Saddle Specifications:
- Saddle Measurements: Seat: 14 to 18 Inches Seat.
- Gullet: 7 inches FQHB.
- Skirt: 25 – 29 inches
- Horn: 3 x 5 inches wide.
- Swell: 8 inches
- Cantle: 4 inches
- Stirrups: 28 – 38 inches
- Weight: Approx. 28 lbs
- ✔ Riders Dream Riding Horse Saddle, Size: - 14 inches, Material: - Premium Western Leather Roping Ranch Work.
- ✔ Wood Base Tree Wrapped in Fiberglass, Wide Pie Horn, and Hand. Carved Tooling, Work Horse Saddle Tack.
- ✔ TOOLING: Gorgeous Hand tooled Basket Weave Design, Breathable and Heat Resistant Mesh Cover.
- ✔ Stay in place by strap, doesn't slip, regardless of horse movement and makes your all rides more comfortable in every time and Help Keeps you pain free for whole ride.
- ✔ Ideal For Horse Riding And Farm Animals, Accessory Ties Shiny Silver Sun Conchs Adjustable Stirrups Adjustable Blevins Buckles Well-Padded Fleece Underside Wade Design In Fiberglass.
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