About Classic Equine Tack

Tack is a collective term that refers to the equipment worn by horses, generally for riding. This includes many general categories of equipment such as saddles, bridles and stirrups. Classic horse tack is different for each riding style such as Western and English riding.

Saddles

A saddle is a seat for a rider. Saddles vary greatly in style. They are generally attached by a leather strap that wraps around the horse. The saddle in Western riding is deep with a horn that was originally used to anchor the lasso to the saddle. It uses as wide strap known as a cinch to remain fastened to the horse. An English saddle is smaller and shallower than a Western saddle and has no horn. The strap used to attach an English saddle is called a girth.

Bridle

A bridle is a type of tack that fits onto the horse's head and controls the horse’s movements, usually with a bit. Western bridles typically have two sets of reins, allowing the rider to guide the horse with one hand. English bridles use a noseband to exert pressure on the horse’s nose, which allows the rider to control the horse. A double bridle with two bits provides very precise control in high levels of English riding.

Stirrup

Stirrups on each side of the horse provide support for the rider’s feet. They typically have safety features to prevent the rider’s boots from becoming caught in the stirrups if the rider is thrown. Western stirrups have wide treads to minimize this risk. English saddles have safety bars that allow the stirrups to detach from the saddle if the rider falls.