Rein It In A Bit

If you're anything like me, a good set of reins will make you drooooooool.

But do you really know about your favorite pair of reins? It wasn't until I bought my reined cowhorse that I took a strong interest in romal reins and the traditions behind the beautiful braided rawhide - after all, I wanted to know why my pocketbook was suddenly feeling so light.

My research led to the interesting histories and makers behind the reins we use today and suddenly my love for reins started to make sense.

As you read, be sure to check out the links I've included to some of my favorite reins, makers, and some great buys!

Romal Reins

A rein heavy in tradition and has historically been used in horses that are in the full bridle (completely transitioned from the hackamore or snaffle bit). These reins are closed and feature the (you guessed it) romal, which is a single cord that attached to the rein usually with a leather popper on the end. The reins attach to the bit using rawhide or leather loops, or rein chains.

Did you know rein chains are meant to add weight and feel to the bit and reins?

The use of romal reins began in the 1700s by the Spanish Vaqueros. They were riding long distances in hardy conditions and they relied on their romal rein to provide quick and precise communication to their horses. You will see romal reins with intricate rawhide braiding designs - we call these buttons. They are simply beautiful (my favorite is the 60 button pattern) but they really do serve a purpose: the weight of the buttons lay on the horses neck and aid in communication.

Riding in romal reins today truly feels like a privilege and you can find them in many styles and budget points. Here are some of my favorite:

For entry level or work worthy romal reins, check out this soft braided leather set.

Looking for a mid-level rein? Consider an 8-12 plait romal rein, maybe one like this.

Ready to get serious? Look for a 16 plait and up. Here's a cool 60 button pair - told you they were my favorite - from a great source for quality tack!

Split Reins

Also known as "Mr. Popular." By far - I sell more split reins than any other type of rein. And for good reason! This rein is extremely versatile. The split reins were created out of a necessity to control each side of the horses mouth, but as time went on, cowboys learned they were extremely handy.

Closed reins were often caught in the brush when traveling on the range, and were more difficult to ground tie with. This naturally made the split rein an easy choice. Plus, split reins come in a large range of sizes to fit your horse's neck size and your preference in weight and width. You can order them with waterloo ties, clips, or a quick change end.

Most often you will see split reins used in the western performance classes, like: horsemanship, trail, western riding, reining, and western pleasure. But a lot of riders enjoy using them to trail ride or for every day. I, myself, have more pairs than I am willing to admit.

Looking for a nice heavy pair on a working budget? Check these out.

Want to step up your game and go with some double stitched beauties? Click here.

Closed Reins

Have you ever lost a rein? Yeah, you and about hundreds of cowboys might have stomped your boot, tossed your hat (just kidding, we don't do that), and said a few cuss words here or there. The beloved split rein is both a curse and a blessing. Cue: the closed rope rein.

Closed reins became the norm when riders began needing free hands....and this began with war in the early 1500s. Although most historians agree that these early closed reins are closer to a modern romal, we know that in the early 1900s when professional rodeo started, ropers were using closed reins nearly exclusively.

There's usually nothing fancy about them: harness leather in a variety of widths, with one tie or buckle end and a clip on the other like this. They also make round braided nylon and waxed reins. Now I'm not saying you can't get fancy. We all know a barrel racer who rides in closed reins and has a set with glitter, 7 different colors, and some fringe hanging off of it (too far?). But what I am saying is that most likely you won't find these bad boys to be too varied and are pretty budget friendly even for a higher quality pair.

All Reined In

Reins are most definitely a preference and can be a highly specialized item. My best friend is a mecate (closed rein used on a bosal, bosalito, two-rein, and snaffle rigs) snob - and I say that in a very, very loving way. I myself have a favorite pair of romal reins that I should probably retire but I won't. We all find our own personal rein style the more time we spend in the saddle.

When choosing a pair of reins, make sure they are the length and style that fits you and your horse's needs best. Consider your budget and what level of riding you do. And remember - it never hurts to have a healthy collection!

Happy Trails,

Katie