Selecting the Right Rope Halter

When selecting a rope halter, you want to ensure you select one that will fit your needs. In this article, we’ll explore the several options and their purpose.

There are many types of materials that rope halters can be made out of, selecting one made out of quality materials will allow that halter to last a very long time. Ridge Creek rope halters are made out of double braid polyester, also known as yacht braid. Yacht braid resists rot, mildew, and sun fading meaning they will last quite a long time (even if you leave it outside).

Sizing
Choosing the correct size is extremely important. The halter should fit comfortably on the horse’s head where there are a few inches between the horse’s chin and the fiador knot. The side nose knots should sit an inch or two below the cheek bones. Ridge Creek’s size chart can be found here.


Soft or Stiff?
Ridge Creek offers soft 1/4”, stiff 1/4”, and stiff 3/16” halters. The 1/4” and 3/16” represents the diameter of the rope used. A soft halter is generally seen as a more gentle option, it is more pliable and does not hold its shape. A stiff halter holds its shape better and can make it easier to halter your horse if you’re new to using rope halters. The soft halter is a good choice for horses who generally respect and give to pressure. A stiff halter may be a better option for horses that tend to lean into pressure, a thin 3/16” stiff halter is good to use on horses that ignore halter pressure in other halters. Always remember that the halters are as gentle or as harsh as you make them. The thinner and stiffer the halter you choose, the stronger your cues will come across.


Two or Four Knots?
Choosing between two and four knots is just as important as choosing the firmness of your halter. The two knot halter is a gentler option than the four knot. The extra knots on the four knot halter adds extra pressure on the nose of the horse. A stiff 3/16” four knot halter has quite a bit of “bite” and should be used with care.


One should always go with the gentlest option possible when choosing a rope halter. The most gentle option is a soft 2 knot halter while the harshest is a stiff 3/16” 4 knot halter. The rope halter is designed to allow pressure to be released immediately, timing is very important when using one. If you are inexperienced in using a rope halter or with training horses, it is suggested to start with a soft or stiff 2 knot halter.


Some Things To Avoid

• Don’t turn your horse out with a rope halter. They are designed to not break under pressure and can cause serious harm if the halter becomes caught on something.
• Don’t leave your horse unattended while tied in a rope halter (including in the trailer). If the horse pulls back, the halter will not break and your horse could become injured.
• Don’t attach reins to just one loop under your horses chin. Always attach snaps to both loops to prevent the fiador knot from coming undone.

If you have any questions, feel free to message us and we’d be happy to help you!


Happy training!

Pictured is a soft 4 knot halter.