Buying Curb Straps for Horses

Saddling a horse can be a daunting process. Several small pieces play a vital role in the safety and comfort of the horse and the rider. These straps are one such piece of saddling equipment. 

There are many different variations of curb straps. Buying one depends heavily on the horse and how you intend to use the bit. Culture can also play an integral role in what type a rider chooses. The most notable differences lie between English and American saddling traditions.  

Chain curb straps are more traditional, but can cause the most discomfort to the horse. Learning and visualizing the curb strap horses prefer is the best way to find which type is worth trying.

What Are Curb Straps?

These straps are a vital piece of equipment for saddling a horse. Also known as curb chains, these straps provide stability in the horse's mouth. They help limit the bit's rotation and any pressure found in the upper part of the mouth.

A person can use one for a horse with the bit in the movement of the reins. Riders attach the bits to the straps, which releases pressure around the horse's head, mouth, and neck. The pressure signals the horse and keeps the rider in control.

Such straps can be a valuable tool to keep the horse's chin in place during a ride and comfortable. You should fit your straps to the specific horse because they provide support to the chin and mouth and must not bring pain. There is no one-size-fits-all solution.

Leather Curb Straps and Westerns

Two main types of straps exist, the chain and leather curb straps. People associate chains with eastern or English saddling traditions. In contrast, a leather curb strap version for horses is more of a western custom.

Riders perceive the leather variety as being more comfortable for horses. Since you place a strap inside the horse's mouth, chains can become quite bothersome, especially if they are not fitted properly.

You will have to adjust the leather straps to the horse for maximum comfort. They should also be flat on the roof of the mouth.

Western varieties, a subtype of the main version, refer to the customs of the United States and other western nations regarding how riders saddled and dressed horses. The most common distinction between western and eastern straps is the use of leather and chains.

Although western straps favor leather, riders utilize several other types throughout western culture such as chains and nylon, rope or synthetic.

The leather straps lay flatter and provide a smoother restraint for the horse. Chains are more traditional and come in tiny links or large links. Riders must fit the links to the horse and manipulate them to lie as flat as possible in the animal's mouth.

Nylon, rope and synthetic curb straps are less common. They do exist in western curb straps. Similar to chains, the rope can be thin or thick. You must do your best to fit the strap as comfortably as possible.

Regardless of the strap you chose for your horse, you will notice a better ride if you use the item properly. If you want to effectively guide the horse, then these straps are a must.