Training & Showmanship Halters

A halter is probably the most important piece of tack for any horse owner to possess. This piece of equipment can be used to lead the horse as well as restrain him; it's also used to teach the horse to longe and can even be used as a bridle. A halter is also used to show a horse in conformation classes as well as showmanship classes.

  1. Training and Everyday Halters

    • Halters for training or everyday use can be made out of leather, nylon, rope or a combination of these materials. A lead rope is also needed for training and can be made from the same material as the halter. Ideally it should be soft on your hands in case your horse turns sharply or tries to rush ahead as you lead him.

    Showmanship Halters

    • While showmanship halters may look like everyday halters, there are many differences. First, the showmanship halter is always made from leather and may be adorned with silver or other materials. It is fitted differently from the everyday halter and will vary in style according to horse breed. While the everyday halter will probably cost less than $20, the showmanship halter will usually cost between $300 and $500. The showmanship halter should also have a matching lead equipped with a chain.

    Showmanship at Halter Classes

    • Horse shows contain two types of classes where a halter is used. Halter or conformation classes are those where the horse is judged. Showmanship at halter classes, usually just referred to as showmanship classes, are those where the handler is judged as he takes his horse through one or more maneuvers. In showmanship the judge scores the handler on how well the horse is groomed, how well the tack/halter is fitted, and how the handler presents the horse to the judge.

    Halter Types

    • To some extent the type of halter needed for showmanship depends on the breed. Arabians traditionally wear halters that are very thin and often consist of rolled leather to show off the breed's fine head, while Western or stock horse breeds wear a halter made of 3/4-inch to 1-inch leather adorned with silver. While the everyday halter is not fitted, you must adjust the showmanship halter in such a way as to accentuate the horse's head and to minimize any faults.

    Showmanship Classes

    • The chain at the end of the showmanship lead rope is placed under the horse's chin and run up the right side of the horse's head where it is attached to the uppermost ring. This lead rope is then used to maneuver the horse through a pattern and to stand him up for presentation to the judge. The patterns may consist of backs, pivots and changes of gaits.