Reins come in different lengths, widths, and thicknesses with a clip or buckle closure, etc. So how do you determine which rein you need? To simplify your choice, read the differences in reins from our shop below.
Reins with clip closure
Clip reins are used in academic training and straightness training in combination with a cavesson. In addition, many bitless bridles are combined with reins with a clip closure, so you can quickly attach or remove the rein.
The clip closure on both sides of the rein makes it easier to switch from groundwork to work in hand and lunging. During groundwork and lunging, you attach one clip to the cavesson's middle ring; during work in hand, you connect both clips to the cavesson, bit or bitless bridle.
During work in hand, the reins slip through your horse's mane, so it is recommended to use reins without a buckle in the middle of the rein but a continuous rein. The buckle in the center of the rein can get caught in the mane, interfering with your rein aids.
Rein with buckle closure
These are the most famous reins in the world, including dressage and show jumping. The rein with buckle closure is used to attach to the bitless shanks or bit. The rein with clip closure is less suitable for this because the metal on metal makes aids less effective.
Reins with grip
If you often or quickly lose your reins or would like something more to hold on to, a rein with grip is a godsend. Reins with grip are available in different thicknesses and grip materials. Examples of this are a rubber layer on one side, leather on the other side, (cotton) webbing interwoven with rubber, wholly made of rubber with nubs in the palm of your hand, or braided leather.
Long Reins - Long Lines
Long rein work is a nice change for the horse and rider and complements training under the saddle or in front of the carriage. Ideal for when you can't ride and still want to be busy with dressage. Long-rein work strengthens communication between you and your horse, increasing trust and mutual respect.
Long rein work is used in Classic Dressage, where you walk alongside and behind the horse. However, this is also a risky position. Therefore, when you start working on the long rein, you must have a good horse that does not quickly swing its legs.
What styles of long-rein work are there?
Viennese and Italian style:
With style, you only use a bridle and long reins. You keep physical contact with your horse and stand close behind or next to the horse at the height of the hindquarters. You can see this style at the Viennese Riding School, among others.
French Style:
You can see the French style at the Catre Noir in Saumur (French Riding School). The French style uses a girth, and the reins run through the rings of the girth to the bit. The rider continues to walk behind the horse, and the transition from working on the double lunge is natural for your horse. The French style is more beneficial for horses starting to work on the long rein and for larger horses.
What do you need to work on the long rein?
- Long lines or long reins of 8 to 9 meters (5 meters later in the course)
- Bridle or cavesson (bitless or with bit)
- Possibly a bit (e.g., toggle snaffle bit)
- Gloves
- Sturdy shoes
- Maybe a lunging girth with large rings
