Hobbyhorse Tack - Choosing, Using, and Fitting

Choose the Right Size!

One size does not fit all! Hobbyhorse tack is available in different sizes, using the traditional equestrian names. From smallest to biggest: Small Pony - Pony - Cob - Full - Extra Full. All tack is somewhat adjustable, but choose the best size to save yourself from extra trouble.

While you are buying a new hobbyhorse, check from the horse's sale info what tack size it has. You can later find your horse's tack size from the Registry. This is the size that is the closest fitting to the horse. Other sizes might fit as well, but there is no guarantee, so make sure you are buying the correct size for your horse! Also note that all tack is not available in all sizes.

If you are buying gear for a horse without knowing the horse's tack size, check the info on the tack you're buying for their size, and take the measurements of your horse. Important measurements:

1. From the corner of the mouth around the ears to the opposite mouth corner.

2. Around the head from behind the ears and under the cheek.

3. Around the muzzle where the noseband is set --that is, between the cheek and the bit ring.

4. Inside the mouth, the part of the bit that you can't see.

Tacking up

Hobbyhorses are tacked up like real horses. Below you can find the instructions for the basic English bridle. Other bridles are used a bit differently, but you can fairly easily figure them out by studying photos of them tacked up on a horse.

1. Grab the bridle from the neck. You'll find it above the browband, on the opposite side from the bit and reins.

2. Make sure the noseband and throatlash are open.

3. Make sure the bit is not crooked and that the buckles on both sides of the bridle are on the same level.

4. Push the bit inside the mouth by helping with your fingers. Don't pull the mouth open, it will damage the filling. Then gently close the mouth with your hands.

5. Pull the neckpiece over the ears. Don't rip or pull too hard! Make sure nothing is stuck inside the horse's mouth besides the bit.

6. Attach the noseband and the throatlash.

7. Check the length of each piece, and adjust with buckles if necessary. The bridle fits well when it's not hanging loose, and doesn't squeeze anywhere. A bridle that's too tight can damage the horse's filling.

Final Fitting

With a bit of modding you can make the tack a perfect fit for your horse! You can add more holes for the buckles if needed. Overly long pieces can be cut shorter.

Please note: the above modding can be used on real leather and leatherette. Webbing tape will fray if cut. You can prevent this by melting the cut surface with flame. Be careful not to burn yourself! No holes are needed for webbing tape. You can push the buckle pin through the webbing!