Breastplate

Attached to the front of the saddle, the breastplate primarily helps to keep the saddle in place, preventing it from sliding backward abnormally. It is also commonly used to equip the horse with a martingale, particularly in show jumping.

A 3-point breastplate has three attachment points: two at the saddle's pommel, on the loops under the saddle flaps, and one on the girth, between the horse’s front legs. A 5-point breastplate, on the other hand, features five attachment points. It generally provides better distribution of pressure points. However, it’s essential to assess each horse individually to determine what works best for them.

In dressage competitions, any form of training system is prohibited, so breastplates are not allowed. Outside of competition, riders are free to decide if a breastplate is useful for their horse’s work. In cross-country and show jumping, breastplates are very commonly used. However, it’s crucial to adjust them correctly to avoid restricting the horse’s shoulder movements during jumps. Lastly, if you go trail riding on rough terrain, a breastplate can be very useful to prevent the saddle from sliding backward. If you’re concerned about the saddle sliding forward, you can also use a crupper.

Once installed, you should be able to fit at least three fingers between the breastplate and your horse, both at the shoulders and the chest. The breastplate should only come into contact during the horse’s maximum extension. Otherwise, it should leave enough space for the horse to move freely. If you’ve chosen a breastplate with a bridge, make sure to place it in front of the withers to avoid any discomfort. This is particularly important in jumping, as the withers rise during jumps and occupy more space. Most breastplate models have various adjustment buckles to ensure an optimal fit for each part of the breastplate.

To preserve your tack over time, proper care is essential. Leather lasts longer when well-maintained and stored in a dry place. Initially, we recommend oiling your leather before their first use to soften and waterproof the material. Regularly clean your leather with glycerin soap and nourish it with a leather balm (approximately every two weeks, depending on use). An annual oiling is necessary and can be repeated if the leather feels stiff.