Walden Farm and Ranch

Horse Breastplates Western Style: A Comprehensive Guide

In This Article

They say in the West, where trails stretch out like veins on the rugged landscape, that a cowboy is only as good as his horse and gear. Well, the same holds true for the trusty horse breastplate.

Every rider worth his salt knows the importance of this vital piece of tack. It keeps your saddle steady and ensures that both you and your horse stay safe during your ride. With so many options out there, it might seem as tough as a bronco ride to choose the right one.

But don’t you worry, cowboy, we got your back.

In this article, we’re gonna take a deep dive into the world of horse breastplates, breaking down everything you need to know to find the perfect one for you and your horse.

So, grab your hat, saddle up and let’s ride into the world of horse breastplates.

What is a Horse Breastplate?

A horse breastplate is essentially a set of straps that snugly fit around your horse's chest. It's main job? Keeping that saddle of yours from sliding back while you're riding. Whether you're competing in a rodeo or simply enjoy a good trail ride, a well-fitted breastplate is just as essential as a sturdy pair of boots.

Now, these breastplates, they come in different shapes and materials. You have your classic leather ones and those modern synthetic ones too. They cater to various riding styles and disciplines. The key to picking the right one is to consider your horse’s size, the type of activities you're planning, and of course, your budget. It’s also important to remember that a breastplate is constantly exposed to dirt and sweat, so choose something that’s durable and easy to maintain.

Types of Horse Breastplates

Running Martingale Breastplate

This popular choice among riders helps control a horse's head carriage, adding an extra layer of stability and support to the horse's shoulders and chest. When choosing a running martingale breastplate, always opt for high-quality materials and the right size for your horse. This type of breastplate, it's like a good cowboy - always ready to support you in a sticky situation.

Standing Martingale Breastplate

This type prevents a horse's head from rising too high, maintaining a good balance and control for the rider. It helps keep the horse's head in a comfortable position, which reduces the risk of injury. A standing martingale breastplate is like a well-worn saddle - it keeps things balanced and comfortable.

Breastplate with Elastic

If comfort and flexibility are what you're looking for, consider a breastplate with elastic. This type is ideal for a range of activities - jumping, dressage, or eventing. The elastic allows for a greater range of motion, accommodating horses of all shapes and sizes. Think of it like the lasso in your tack - flexible but still in control.

Breastplate with Adjustable Straps

A breastplate with adjustable straps gives you the freedom to customize the fit according to your horse's comfort. It's like your favorite pair of boots, worn in and perfectly molded to your feet.

Breastplate with Detachable Martingale

This type is a versatile option for riders who like to switch between different styles of riding. It keeps the saddle in place and can be easily removed when not needed. It's like having your cake and eating it too.

Materials Used for Horse Breastplates

Your choice of material can depend on durability, style, and personal preference. Here's a look at some common options:

Factors to Consider When Buying Horse Breastplates

When buying a horse breastplate, consider:

In the wild west of horse riding, a good breastplate is as essential as a trusty steed. So take your time, do your research, and choose the right breastplate that offers comfort, safety, and style. After all, in this great dance between horse and rider, every detail counts.

Remember, a cowboy is only as good as his gear. So saddle up, pick the right breastplate, and hit the trail with confidence, because with the right equipment, the western world is yours to explore.

Materials Used in Horse Breastplates

There's something genuinely American about saddling up a horse, a sense of freedom, a connection to the land and its heritage. For many, it's not just about the ride, it's also about the equipment and how it affects the experience. In this article, we explore one such piece of equipment, the horse breastplate.

A horse breastplate is an essential piece of western riding gear, providing safety, comfort, and an extra dash of style. Like a steadfast companion, it plays a vital role in a rider's journey, ensuring the saddle stays secure during your rides. But just as a cowboy doesn't wear the same hat every day, horse breastplates come in a variety of materials, each with its own unique set of features.

Leather

No material speaks to the heart of the West more than leather. Tough as old boot leather, yet flexible enough to mold to the horse's chest, leather breastplates are as hardy as the riders who choose them.

Leather breastplates are made from high-quality, durable leather, a material known for its strength and classic aesthetics.

Their versatility means you can choose from a variety of styles, from simple and traditional to ornate and decorative.

A well-made leather breastplate provides your horse with support and protection, perfect for long rides and competitions.

Nylon

Nylon breastplates are the modern-day maverick of the western riding world. Lightweight, easy to clean, and available in a veritable rainbow of colors, they bring a fresh pop of color to your horse's attire.

Nylon horse breastplates are durable, affordable, and easy to adjust, ensuring maximum comfort and safety.

The variety of colors and designs available can suit any western riding style.

Quality nylon breastplates feature sturdy hardware, such as stainless steel buckles and D-rings, providing reliable support.

Neoprene

Neoprene, a synthetic rubber material, is a newcomer in the world of western riding, but it's earned its stripes. Known for its resistance to water and chemicals, it's ideal for the practical rider who values durability and convenience.

Neoprene breastplates are soft, pliable, and offer excellent shock absorption, reducing the impact of sudden movements.

Their maintenance is as easy as a Sunday morning ride. A simple wipe down or rinse is often all it takes to keep them looking fresh.

Due to its weather-resistant properties, neoprene is a great choice for riders often exposed to harsh weather conditions.

Choosing the Right Breastplate for Your Horse

Choosing the right breastplate for your horse isn't unlike a cowboy selecting the right hat; it requires a careful balance of practicality and style. A few key considerations can guide you in making the best choice for your trusty steed.

Considerations for the horse's size and build

A horse's size and build are as unique as a snowflake in a blizzard. These characteristics should be considered when selecting a breastplate. A proper fit is essential to ensure your horse's comfort and safety. Always remember, a well-fitting breastplate is like a good friend: supportive and dependable without being overly restrictive.

Choosing the right material

The material of a breastplate is the cowboy's secret handshake with his horse. Leather, nylon, or neoprene? It's a personal choice, depending on your horse's needs and your preferences. The material should be durable and comfortable, able to stand up to the rigors of the trail while ensuring your horse's comfort.

Choosing the right style for your riding discipline

The style of your breastplate is like your calling card, revealing your riding discipline and personal aesthetic. Whether you lean towards traditional breastplates or modern minimalist designs, make sure to choose a style that aligns with your horse's build and temperament. After all, the best riding gear is a perfect blend of form and function, just like a western rider and his horse.

Fitting and Caring for Your Horse's Western Breastplate: A Comprehensive Guide

As any old cowpoke will tell you, a horse ain't just a mode of transport – it's a friend, a confidante, and a partner in your journey through life. This here's a guide to ensuring that friendship lasts, just as the sagebrush embraces the prairie, so too should your horse's breastplate fit and comfort him. Just like Louis L'Amour wrote, "There will come a time when you believe everything is finished. That will be the beginning." So, let's start at the beginning, with the proper fitting of a horse breastplate.

Proper Fitting of a Horse Breastplate

A western horse breastplate ain't just there for looks, it's a crucial piece of equipment for safety and comfort. Just like a saddle, it needs to be fit just right to prevent discomfort or injury. When fitting a breastplate, adjust the neck strap first. It needs to be snug, but not too tight – freedom of movement is key. Adjust the girth strap and breast collar strap next. Check the fit regularly, especially if you're a frequent rider. And remember, just like a trusty old Stetson, a good fitting breastplate can keep your horse safe and comfortable.

Measuring your horse for the correct size

Just as a cowboy's boots need to fit right, so does a horse's breastplate. Here's how you measure up your horse for a perfect fit:

Start by measuring the girth of your horse, right behind the front legs. Snug, but not tight.

Next, measure from the center of the chest to the center of the withers, the highest point of your horse's shoulder blades.

Finally, measure your horse's breastbone, from the center of the chest to where the breastplate will sit.

Choose the right size based on these measurements and remember, snug but not too tight is the mantra.

Adjusting the breastplate for a proper fit

Adjusting a breastplate ain't no different from adjusting your belt after Thanksgiving dinner. Start with the breastplate on the shoulders and fasten the girth strap. Adjust the neck strap so it's comfortable, then tighten the billet straps. Keep an eye on it, especially if your horse is still growing. Remember, your horse's comfort is just as important as your own.

Ensuring the breastplate is snug but not too tight

Your horse needs to breathe easy, just like you. A breastplate should be snug, but not too tight. Start by attaching it to the saddle and adjusting the girth straps. Keep an eye on it, especially if your horse is changing weight or shape. And always err on the side of caution when tightening it.

Maintenance and Care of Horse Breastplates

Taking care of a breastplate is like taking care of a good pair of boots. Here are some tips to keep your horse's gear in top shape:

Clean it regularly, removing dirt and sweat from the leather and hardware. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage it.

Keep the leather supple with a good conditioner or oil to prevent cracking or drying out.

Check the hardware and stitching regularly for any signs of wear or damage.

Cleaning and conditioning leather breastplates

Cleaning and conditioning a breastplate ain't any different from taking care of your saddle. Start by brushing off dirt, then apply a leather cleaner. After it's clean, use a leather conditioner to keep it supple and prevent cracking. Regular care will keep your breastplate in great shape, just like a well-oiled six-shooter.

Choosing the Right Breastplate for Your Horse

Choosing a breastplate is like choosing a new pair of boots – it needs to fit right and suit your needs. Consider the purpose of the breastplate, the fit, and the material. Leather is a classic choice for a reason, but there are also synthetic options available. Whatever you choose, make sure it's durable and comfortable for your horse, because a happy horse makes for a happy ride.

Wrapping It All Up

Just as the dust settles after a day of riding, we've come to the end of our journey. In the spirit of the great Louis L'Amour, we've explored the art of fitting a western horse breastplate, the importance of proper measurement and adjustment, and the essential care and maintenance for these valuable pieces of tack.

Whether you're as experienced as a grizzled cowboy or green as a spring pasture, the knowledge you carry on your shoulders about choosing and caring for your horse's breastplate is worth more than a pouch of gold nuggets. A good horseman knows that their horse's comfort and safety should never be taken for granted. By ensuring a snug fit, regular cleaning, and prompt repairs, your horse's breastplate will be as dependable as a trusty old six-shooter.

As you ride into the sunset, remember that every ride is an opportunity to connect with your equine partner. And just like the bonds formed around a campfire under a star-studded sky, the time and effort you put into the care of your horse and his equipment will yield a bond of trust and companionship that no force on earth can break.

As Louis L'Amour once penned, "No memory is ever alone; it's at the end of a trail of memories, a dozen trails that each have their own associations." May your trail be filled with joyful rides, trusty breastplates, and, above all, the unparalleled companionship of a faithful horse. Happy trails, partner.

Richard Sutherland

 RichardSutherland@bitsnspurs.org

Richard is a western lifestyle author for Bits N' Spurs, the weekly newsletter that keeps pace with today's rodeo. His articles are featured on dozens of rodeo and Western related websites and provide a window to the world of cowboy culture.