Effectiveness of Hackamores?

[hellybelly6]

I have been recommened by a vet to ride my horse in a hackamore for the time being due to a tooth extraction the hard way.

I wonder how effective an English hackamore is? My horse is strong and leans at times.

Thanks

 

[charlimouse]

I've found hackamores very effective in the past, especially on horse's that tend to lean on the bit, as there is no bit for them to lean on. Just remember that even though there is no bit in the horse's mouth they do exert alot of pressure on the poll, nose and chin.

 

[sugarlump121]

I think they're fab!

My boy used to have one for jumping bsja but after 12 months or so, it didn't give a strong enough hold for jumping bigger tracks.

A mare I had who was too strong in a snaffle and used to be hacked in a dutch gag wore one for hacking after we tried it out as a 'trial and error' type thing.

As you can see, thumbs up from me!

 

[hellybelly6]

Thanks, good to know.

So they are quite strong and good for leaners. Do you need to ride differently?

Thanks

 

[DunRoamin]

I'd rather ride in a Hacakmore than any bit, only thing is steering leaves much to be desired and needs to be planned well in advance,

 

[hellybelly6]

How does steering work? What do you do with your hands?

Am worried the plates, will go into the side of his face.

Thanks

 

[charlimouse]

Plan your stearing early, as hackamores don't really help in that department! And ensure you are light with your hands especially when jumping. Plus don't expect your horse to go in a outline, or try and force him into one!

 

[Spot_the_Risk]

They are very strong, and need a light sympathetic thinking rider, a learner (depending on the person of course!) may be not sensitive enough, or simply not co-ordinated enough.

I ride in one all the time now, my cob has had french link snaffle, filet baucher french link, mullen mouth pelham over the years, he isn't strong and doesn't lean, but we get on well with the hackamore!

 

[charlimouse]

Steer exactly as you would normally, the horse is steered by your legs, weight and use the hand to guide him. I have never had a problem with the plates on the the side of the face. On mine I have a prolite curb guard on the chain on the chin, so it isn't quite so harsh.

 

[hellybelly6]

Thanks, will do, plan steering early. Will remember that.

I am not a novice, I have very good hands which have been commented upon by more than one instructor. Have been with horses for 30 years.

I appreciate hearing your thoughts and comments though and appreciate any tips/advice I may have forgotten over the years.

 

[Chico Mio]

Try a crosspull - Dr Cook type. Steering and brakes have never been an issue for either of mine. Personally I don't like the idea of that much pressure on the nasal bone, but that's just my opinion.

 

[Katie__Connie]

They are brilliant!!
I ride my friends horse in one to exercise it because it cuts its mouth out hunting and we don't like to put a bit in between hunts cos its sore

So a hackamore is perfect and works really well

 

[sugarlump121]

I'd suggest riding the same as normal, using all aids correctly(seat, legs etc).

Maybe practice in a safe area first just to get used to it?

 

[Spot_the_Risk]

Highlandponylass - sorry, read your post as good for learners, not leaners - my mistake!