XC in a hackamore, any thoughts?

[memeikle]

Was wondering if anyone has any experience using a hackamore in the XC phase. Have something that's got a horribly sensitive mouth and copes well with a hackamore but just not sure my steering would be acurate enough for skinnies, combinations, e.t.c. Any thoughts?

 

[carthorse]

I used to xc a complete nutter in one and was alot more ridable in the hackamore and today I saw someone doing the open teamchase in one

 

[Starbucks]

My mums horse cut his mouth on his stable door so couldn't have a bit in, mum did XC with him in a hackamore and she said she didn't have the best control.. or steering.

I guess it depends on the horse, I'd give it a go. Maybe at something that doesn't matter!

 

[hoggedmane]

I used to x country my TB in one as it was the only one he didn't set his neck against so I had no brakes. Can't say I ever noticed lack of steering - was just grateful to have some control.

 

[milz88]

Mine goes XC in one and SJ, perfectly fine steering, the softer you are with your hands when you can be, the better, so when you do take a pull etc it will have more effect.

 

[gemjar82]

I sj in a hackamore my horse is extremely stong and i would xc in it if i could but i still have no control. I use the myler combination xc so its a hackamore with a bit. i find he listens to my leg much more and have therefore never really had a problem steering. If it works for you and your horse i would defo use it.

 

[Jul]

I used to SJ and XC in an English hackamore - not sure if you're talking about this or the german one? The german one's a lot stronger but I think your steering is better with it.

I found it was fine with the English as she's not a strong horse anyway, but then after a problem XC schooling one time I realised I didn't have quite the sharp steering I needed at times so I switched and now use a snaffle.