Horse Harness: Fitting and Adjustments

When you choose to ride a horse, there are certain things that you must assemble before beginning with it. There can be many tools, equipment, or devices that you’ll need to fit on your horse and yourself. It is likely to say it is there to protect and support the rider and the horse from an accident or injury.

Thus, if you are looking to ride your horse while using a horse harness, it’s better to fix the buckle and latches properly. Needless to say, different riders may opt for different harnesses depending on their approach to usage. More so, the fitting and adjustment of a horse harness are essentially important.

See Also: Horse Harness: Types & Variations

Use of Horse Harness

A horse harness is an essential piece of equipment for anyone who owns a horse or works with them regularly. Nevertheless, it is a device that helps horse riding, but not every horse rider may need it. Moreover, it depends upon the task the rider has to perform.

It is used to attach a horse to a carriage, plow, or other equipment that they will be pulling. A well-fitted harness is crucial for the comfort and safety of the horse and the person handling them. Here, we will discuss how to properly fit and adjust a horse harness to ensure maximum efficiency and safety.

How to Fit and Adjust a Horse Harness?

In order to align the horse harness in a proper manner, it’s a must to follow the right procedure. If you are not so sure about adjusting and fitting the harness, you can surely take help from a professional.

Here are some common steps that you can take for right fitting the harness –

Step 1: Choose the Right Size and Type of Harness

The first step in fitting a horse harness is choosing the correct size and type. The harness must fit the horse correctly, or it could cause discomfort, rubbing, or even injury. Likewise, the size of the harness will depend on the horse’s weight and height. Accordingly, the type of harness will depend on what kind of work the horse will be doing.

Step 2: Put the Harness on the Horse

Once you have chosen the right size and type of harness, the next step is to put it on the horse. Start by placing the collar around the horse’s neck. The collar should be snug but not too tight. Too tight could cause breathing difficulties; if it is too loose, the horse could slip out of the harness.

Read Also: Horse Harness Parts and Accessories

Next, you have to attach the hames to the collar. If you are unaware of what it looks like, then these are the curved pieces of metal that hold the traces. Moreover, these are the straps that attach the horse to the equipment they will be pulling.

Step 3: Adjust the Harness

After attaching the hames, it is time to adjust the harness. Here, you can begin by adjusting the breastplate. The breastplate should be snug but not too tight to keep the harness from sliding back.

Next, adjust the breeching. The breeching is the strap that goes around the horse’s hindquarters to help slow the vehicle down when stopping. The breeching should be snug but not too tight to keep it from slipping over the horse’s rump.

Finally, adjust the traces. The traces should be adjusted to be straight but not too tight. If they are too tight, they will pull on the horse’s shoulders, causing discomfort and making it difficult for the horse to move freely.

Step 4: Test the Harness

After adjusting the harness, it is important to test it to ensure it is secure and comfortable for the horse. You can do this by having the horse take a few steps forward while attached to the equipment it will pull. The horse should move comfortably and easily if the harness is properly fitted and adjusted.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, a well-fitted and adjusted horse harness is crucial for the safety and comfort of both the horse and the person handling them. It is important to choose the right size and type of harness and to make adjustments to ensure it fits properly. Testing the harness is also essential to ensure it is secure and comfortable for the horse. By following these steps, you can ensure your horse is safe and comfortable while working.

Related Articles:

How to Transition Your Horse to a New Bridle

Western Horse Tack for Sale

How to Put a Halter on a Horse?

Difference Between Horse Bridle and Halter