Walden Farm and Ranch

Get A Closer Look at Martin Saddlery's Western Bridle Collection

In This Article

Martin Saddlery is a well-known brand in the western horse riding industry, producing high-quality saddles, tack, and equipment.

Martin Saddlery offers a range of bridles designed for different riding styles and preferences. Among their collection are 3 bridles that are particularly popular among horse riders: the Browband Headstall, Slip Ear Headstall, and Split Ear Headstall. 

Each of these bridles has unique features and benefits that make them suitable for different disciplines and purposes. 

This article will provide an overview of these bridles, their benefits, and what sets them apart from each other. If you're in the market for a high-quality bridle, read on to discover which Martin Saddlery bridle is right for you and your horse.

3 Types of Bridles

There are 3 main types of bridles, or headstalls, for Western riding. And Martin Saddlery makes great options for them all. 

Browband Headstalls 

A browband headstall is a classic horse bridle that has a leather strap across the horse's forehead. It's used in both English and Western riding and can be plain or decorated with tooling and silver accents. Martin Saddlery bridles are doubled and stitched. 

Slip Ear Headstalls 

A slip ear headstall has a single earpiece that slips over the horse's ear. It is often made of a single piece of leather that is folded over and stitched, creating a loop for the ear.

Slip ear headstalls are typically simpler in design and are often used in working or ranch riding.

Split Ear Headstalls

A split ear headstall has two separate earpieces that attach to the headstall. The earpieces are typically attached to the headstall with Chicago screws or ties. Split ear headstalls are often more decorative and are commonly used in show or pleasure riding.

How To Choose A Bridle

The choice between a browband, slip ear, or split ear headstall for a Western rider depends on personal preference and the horse's needs.

Browband Headstall

This style of headstall has a single leather strap that goes over the horse's head and a band that runs across the forehead. The browband helps keep the headstall in place and prevents it from slipping down the horse's face.

A browband headstall is a good choice for horses with sensitive ears or for riders who prefer a more secure fit.

Slip Ear Headstall

A slip ear headstall has two leather straps that go over the horse's head, with one sliding through the other to create a loop. The reins attach to the loop, and the headstall is held in place by the pressure of the reins.

Slip ear headstalls are a good choice for horses with larger ears or for riders who prefer a more minimalist look.

Split Ear Headstall

A split ear headstall has two separate leather straps that go over the horse's head and attach to the bit. This style of headstall is popular in some Western disciplines, such as reining and cutting, where the horse's head needs to move freely.

Split ear headstalls are a good choice for horses with small ears or for riders who prefer a headstall that allows for more freedom of movement.

Martin Saddlery Browband Bridles

This bridle is a popular choice for Western riders. It's designed to fit the horse's head comfortably and comes with a padded browband for added comfort.

Martin Saddlery's browband bridles are also designed with the horse's comfort in mind.

The leather is supple and soft, allowing for a comfortable fit, and the headstall is adjustable to ensure a secure fit for any horse.

The browband is also designed to sit above the horse's ears, avoiding any pressure on the sensitive poll area.

The bridles are available in a variety of styles and colors, allowing riders to choose the one that best suits their needs and preferences. Some of the most common styles include working, show, and trail bridles.

Browband Martin Saddlery Bridles

Benefits of Martin Saddlery Bridles

Here are some of the features of the Martin Saddlery Browband Headstall:

Overall, the Martin Saddlery Browband Headstall is a high-quality bridle that provides the horse with comfort and control. Its premium-grade materials, adjustable cheek pieces, and quick-change bit ends make it a popular choice among Western riders.

Martin Saddlery Slip Ear Bridles

A slip ear headstall is a simple, streamlined Western-style bridle that loops around the horse's ears and attaches to the bit with a single leather strap. It's known for its minimalism and is popular in Western pleasure and show events.

But it may not be suitable for horses with larger ears or those who require more support around the head and ears.

The Martin Saddlery slip ear headstall is a high-quality Western-style bridle that is made from Hermann Oak chocolate harness leather.

Slip Ear Martin Saddlery Bridles

Benefits of Martin Saddlery Bridles

Overall, the Martin Saddlery slip ear headstall is a high-quality and stylish bridle that provides the horse with comfort and control. It’s simple design, rawhide lacing, and premium-quality materials make it a popular choice among Western riders.

Martin Saddlery Split Ear Bridles

The Martin Saddlery Split Ear Headstall is a Western-style bridle designed for horse shows and formal events. 

If you're a competitive rider, the Martin Saddlery Show Headstall is a popular choice.

It's designed to complement your show attire and features intricate tooling and silver accents for added style.

This bridle is available in different finishes and sizes to fit your horse comfortably.

They are ornate, made of high-quality leather, and feature handcrafted tooling and silver or brass accents.

They provide comfort and control for the horse with padded nosebands and browbands, adjustable cheek pieces, and quick-change bit ends. They are a popular choice among riders who want a beautiful and functional bridle for the show ring.

Split Ear Martin Saddlery Bridles

Benefits of Martin Saddlery Bridles

Here are the features of the Martin Saddlery Show Headstall:

Overall, the Martin Saddlery Show Headstall is a beautiful and functional bridle that provides both style and comfort for the horse. Its ornate design, high-quality materials, handcrafted tooling, and adjustable features make it a popular choice among competitive riders.

About Martin Saddlery

If you're a horse rider, you know that having the right gear is essential. And when it comes to bridles, Martin Saddlery is a brand you can trust. They've been producing top-quality horse riding equipment for over 25 years, and their bridles are among the best in the market.

Craftsmanship and Quality Materials

Martin Saddlery's bridles are handcrafted using premium-grade materials like leather, stainless steel, and brass. The attention to detail in the craftsmanship ensures that the bridles are not only visually appealing but also strong and durable.

The company has a range of bridle designs that cater to different riding styles and preferences. Whether you're a casual trail rider or a competitive equestrian, you're sure to find a Martin Saddlery bridle that suits your needs.

Comfort and Control

One of the unique features of Martin Saddlery bridles is their focus on comfort and control. The bridles are designed to fit the horse comfortably and perform optimally. They come with padded browbands, reins, and nosebands that add to the horse's comfort and control.

Quality Horse Tack

Martin Saddlery makes each saddle by hand with premium materials and the utmost attention to detail. Their exclusive Axis saddle trees are crafted in-house using South Dakota white pine wood and precise angles to ensure even contact with the horse's back and adequate spine relief. Their unique flared design accommodates the horse's movement and provides comfort and performance for both horse and rider.

Final Thoughts

Martin Saddlery bridles are a must-have for horse riders of all levels. Their attention to detail, use of premium materials, and focus on comfort and control make them a top choice for riders who want the best for their horses. With their range of styles and designs, you're sure to find a Martin Saddlery bridle that fits your needs and complements your riding style.


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.