Plaited reins. Photo courtesy B obbi- J o B lak e Plaited reins for S how H orse events. ton rine W ad d ing Photo by K athe an’ s rop e reins Parelli S p ortsm Why Those Reins? Can reins make a difference to the way of going for horse and rider? by Kaye Meynell Pho to by A nit a N orr is R eins with from catc stop p ers to p re hing on bi vent mar ting ale t T hough endeavouring to ride the horse in such a way that bodyweight, leg aids and voice commands are the fundamental cues used, the use of reins remains necessary in conjunction with these other aids in order to allow more subtle commands to be given - for example reining back, checking speed, or asking for a half halt. Due to the fact that reins are a major player when it comes to communication between horse and rider and are (for most anyway) indispensable, it’s wise to choose them carefully! For many riders it is the combination of reins and gloves that makes all the difference in improving how they ride: both gloves and reins must allow for sufficient feel down the reins so that clear commands can be issued, and in return the horse’s responses felt. Sally-Leigh Woods, a winner of the British National Ladies Showjumping Championship, FEI dressage rider and coach, is well placed to comment on the effect that inappropriate reins and gloves may have on a person’s riding technique, “If the reins are far too skinny and light the hand has to close a little bit firmer, which can create discomfort. Riders shouldn’t feel like they are constantly jamming their fingers onto the rein all the time - they should be able to relax the hand. To read more click to purchase