What riders say about our breastplates
On my rather round horse, the saddle always slipped back a bit when jumping. With the breastplate, it stays in position much better.
— Trusted Shops Review
If the saddle needs additional support
A breastplate connects the saddle to the horse's chest area at several points, primarily preventing it from slipping backwards or sliding sideways. This can be particularly helpful during dynamic movement, jumping, or when riding cross-country. A basic prerequisite is that the saddle fits properly: the breastplate provides stability; it does not correct a poor saddle fit.
When is a breastplate useful?
Breastplates are used when a properly fitted saddle needs to be kept in position more securely during certain movements. The design and adjustment should be appropriate for the horse, the saddle, and the intended use.
- When jumping: The takeoff, flight phase, and landing create strong movements in the horse's body. A breastplate can help prevent the saddle from slipping backward or sideways.
- In the field and at higher speeds: Uneven ground, inclines, and dynamic movements change the forces acting on the saddle. Additional stabilization can be particularly useful here.
- For horses whose saddle tends to slip backward: Even if a saddle fits correctly in principle, individual body shape can cause it to slide back slightly under load. A breastplate can limit this movement.
- For expansive movement: Horses with great shoulder action require a breastplate that provides stabilization without restricting the mobile shoulder area due to straps that are too short or poorly positioned.
- With martingale attachment: Our breastplates are always supplied with a detachable martingale attachment. While the breastplate stabilizes the saddle, the martingale attachment acts on the rein control and only becomes active as a limitation when the head is significantly raised.
The benefits of high-quality breastplates
A good breastplate should reliably hold the saddle in position without unnecessarily affecting the horse's natural movement. Therefore, suitable strap routing, sufficient adjustability, and the most even pressure distribution possible are crucial.
Limits the saddle from sliding back
The breastplate holds the saddle closer to its intended position via additional attachment points, especially during dynamic movement.
Secure seat for jumping and off-road riding
With changing directions of movement and higher loads, the breastplate helps keep the saddle more stable.
Free shoulder with correct adjustment
Properly positioned straps allow the shoulder room to lift, lower, and rotate when the front leg moves forward.
Forces distributed over several points
Depending on the design, 3- or 5-point breastplates distribute support across a varying number of connection points. This allows you to choose the construction best suited to your horse, saddle, and intended use.
Adjustable to horse and saddle
Adjustable straps allow you to set the length and fit so that the breastplate neither hangs loosely nor is under constant tension.
Additional functionality through martingale fork
All of our breastplates are supplied with a detachable martingale attachment. It acts on the rein guidance and only becomes restrictive when the horse raises its head significantly.
Why a breastplate must not restrict the shoulder
The horse's shoulder blade is not bony connected to the rib cage, but is held to the trunk by muscles. With every step, it slides and rotates along the rib cage, thereby changing the space required in the shoulder area. Straps that are too short or permanently tensioned can put additional pressure on this mobile region. A correctly adjusted breastplate therefore stabilizes the saddle without constantly pulling on the chest or shoulder, and leaves the horse sufficient space even during expansive movement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about breastplates
Why does my horse need a breastplate?
A breastplate stabilizes the saddle and primarily prevents it from slipping backward. It is frequently used in jumping, on trails, or for horses whose well-fitting saddle tends to slide back slightly during movement.
Can a breastplate compensate for a poorly fitting saddle?
No. A breastplate can stabilize a saddle that fits fundamentally well, but it cannot correct an incorrect gullet width, unsuitable panel shape, or other fit issues.
What is the difference between a breastplate and a martingale?
The breastplate holds the saddle in its intended position. A martingale, on the other hand, acts on the rein guidance: the martingale fork only becomes effective as a limiting factor when the horse lifts its head so high that the angle of the reins changes significantly.
How tight should a breastplate be adjusted?
It should fit securely, but not be under constant high tension while the horse is standing normally. Especially around the shoulders and chest, there must be enough room for the horse to move its front legs forward freely and move its neck.
What is the difference between a 3-point and a 5-point breastplate?
A 3-point breastplate stabilizes the saddle via three central connection points. The 5-point breastplate adds additional lateral attachments, allowing the stabilizing forces to be distributed across several areas. Depending on the model, additional straps can be removed and the breastplate modified accordingly.
How can I tell if my breastplate is restricting my horse's shoulders?
Signs may include permanently tensioned straps, pressure marks, chafing, or noticeable pulling across the shoulder when the front leg is extended forward. Therefore, check the adjustment not only when standing, but also in motion.