Hackamore, a bitless bridle.

Is your horse's mouth sore? Or perhaps your horse is sensitive and doesn't tolerate bits well? The hackamore provides the same precise contact, but does it differently. It transfers pressure from the inside of the mouth to the horse's nasal bone, providing soothing relief.

A hackamore is an excellent tool for any horse with a sensitive mouth. It may be the only thing the animal will accept, and it provides relief from pain and pressure. This equipment is ideal for anyone with a horse that doesn't handle traditional bits well.

What is a hackamore?

A hackamore is a special type of bit . It operates on the horse's nose, unlike a regular bit, which operates on the jaw. It's an alternative to a regular bit, allowing the rider's hand to contact the horse. A hackamore also requires a bridle. Our store offers the Balotade Quick hackamore bridle , which allows for safe attachment and use of the hackamore. Our bridle also features an anatomically contoured poll at the front. This combination can be classified as a "bitless bridle." This is another type of bridle that can be used on a horse, and the hackamore is the most commonly used.

How is a hackamore constructed?

Commercially available hackamores consist of two steel shanks and leather straps placed above and below the muzzle . The soft-touch leather, without sharp edges, prevents chafing and ensures comfort during long training sessions. Specially designed construction makes hackamores flexible, comfortable, and easy to use for both you and your horse. Made of high-quality leather and durable steel.

When to use a hackamore instead of a standard bit?

This type of contact doesn't use the horse's mouth, but instead shifts the pressure to the horse's nose. The hackamore is ideal for horses that take longer to accept the bit for various reasons. There are horses with dental problems, sensitive mouths, or jaw defects. The hackamore, on the other hand, works by leveraging the horse's nose. This eliminates any contact with the teeth and allows for use without causing any mouth problems.

Who can use a hackamore?

A rider seeking an alternative for their horse and choosing a hackamore should be experienced . This begins with sound knowledge that will support their decision-making regarding which bit to use, and continues with riding skills. Their seat must be balanced, and the reins they hold should be operated delicately depending on the situation. Unfortunately, poor skills and improper handling can result in harm to the horse.

The role of the nasal and submandibular strip in the hackamore.

The noseband of a hackamore is the main element that constantly interacts with the horse. It exerts pressure on the nasal bone. Therefore, its proper construction is crucial. To be usable, it must be covered with soft leather for the horse's comfort. A strap that is too stiff or hard could dig into the horse's nasal bone and cause problems. It's easy to imagine the injuries this could cause to the horse.

The second strap is the submandibular one, it provides stabilization and regulation of the position of the entire hackamore on the horse's nose.

Can a hackamore be used on horses that tolerate bits?

Absolutely. The use of a hackamore can of course be voluntary. There's a common misconception that it's used solely because of the horse's problems. This is most often the case, but a rider may also choose it for other reasons. Sometimes a horse may simply respond well to the effects of a hackamore and its leverage. Its action differs from that of a bit, so a horse may simply perform better with a hackamore or other bitless bridle.

Can a hackamore break a horse's nasal bone?

The hackamore, like other bitless bridles, works by applying pressure to the horse's nose. The rider's fingers, through the reins, no longer have contact with the horse's teeth. Therefore, it's safe to assume that excessive pressure could damage the nasal bones. This is a popular myth and in practice it has not been found in any horses. It's more likely that the straps will break due to the high pressure exerted by the metal shanks. However, it's crucial that the rider's hand gently interacts with the horse. This way, they won't even have to worry about such a threat. And the hackamore can be safely used on their horses.

Are hackamore bridles bitless?

A hackamore by itself cannot be considered a bridle. It is a type of bit (like a bit) and will not stay on the horse's muzzle on its own. It requires straps passing over the horse's poll and attached to either side of the hackamore. Only then can it be considered a bridle and ridden in.

Hackamore available at Balotade.

Our store offers several products of this type. When it comes to bits, we have a basic model and an additional, more contoured model. This is the Roma hackamore. We also offer bridles for hackamores. This is the Quick model, available with and without a hackamore.

Each of our Hackamores is designed to be anatomically compatible with horses. They're safe to use whenever your horse needs jaw rest.