Let’s Talk Headstalls: Choosing the right headstall

What is your favorite headstall? What kind is going to work best with my horse? Let’s talk about choosing the right headstall!

Slit Ear Headstalls

I am partial to a Slit Ear personally, but that is because I don’t like to take the time for a throat latch, yes I am lazy lol.  I like them because they are pretty universal in fitting lots of horses.  The downside is that I have had some horses that could shake or rub them off.  That has made for a long walk home once or twice.

Browband Headstalls

Browband headstalls are great, but horses with large brows can sometimes get rubbed. 

Sliding Ear Headstalls

Sliding ear headstalls are also a great addition to anyone’s tack room and they can be made with a throat latch as well.

Other things to consider when choosing a Headstall

One thing to consider is the length of the cheek plates.  If you have a small-headed horse you don’t want the buckles in their eyes. 

I also consider the horse’s head when I am selecting a headstall.  If my horse has a pretty head I will select a smaller headstall to show it off.  If my horse has a big head I may go with a wider headstall to downplay his features. 

My final decision is always based on function and what best suits the horse I am riding that day.  I am attaching some links to some of our favorite headstalls so you can take a look and let me know what you think.

Slit Ear Example

Browband Example

Sliding Ear Example

In addition, you might also be interested in our Let’s Talk Tack Series or our Let’s Talk Saddle Series! We hope to see you there and we hope this helped you in choosing the right headstall for you and your horse.

See you in the saddle, Ryan

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