5 Point Breastplates: worth it or extra gadget?

[Dusty85]

My leather hunting breastplate will soon be in need of replacement, and I'm wondering whether to buy a 5 point breastplate or a plain old leather hunting one.

I have a 16.2hh TB who I event, and I cant help but notice that most people seem to have a 5 point breastplate. Is there really any benefit? I have heard people say that the 5 pointed ones allow greater freedom of movement in the shoulder but wasnt sure if it made a massive difference?

I do like the look of the 5 point ones, but they are much more expensive and I hate the idea of having something on my horse just because it seems like the fashion!

 

[Dusty85]

Doesnt anybody have any thoughts?

 

[ZoeCharlotte]

For what it's worth, I think 5 point breastplates do offer a bit more freedom of movement, but if you don't like the look of them a normal hunting one isn't exactly a huge difference. There does seem to be a trend for 5 point ones though, so make of that what you will!

 

[Jobi-Wan Kenobi]

I do wonder if they offer slightly more stability to the saddle? Not got one myself though as tbh I do think they're just a new gimmick and I prefer to wait and see how they last the test of time before forking out a fortune for something I don't really need at the moment.

 

[mudmonkey17]

I got a 5 point townend one when looking for one for my girl as found these seemed to fit better and more adjustability when trying a few on her. Haven't competed in it yet but is a great strap to hold onto when she does her rodeo impression

 

[NaeNae87]

It's a little bit of extra security just incase something goes wrong with your gear. There is nothing wrong with that if it is your preference.

Personally, I don't use one. I don't need to on my gelding as he doesn't chuck his head up when jumping. The martingale attachment for my horse, is an extra gadget.
I used a racing breastplate all last season, and for this season, we will be exactly the same, however I will be adding a neck strap for me as I really don't want to be catching him in the mouth if something should happen.