Split Reins

No_Angel

No_Angel

Well-Known Member
Apr 20, 2003
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Ireland
Is there a trick to riding with split reins?

I recently bought a pair of rope reins but they were a little too short for my guy so they are up for sale and I am looking for another pair.
I've seen a pair of split rope reins and I like the idea that I could use it as a rope and reins, but I've always ridden in loop reins and have visions of me dropping one mid ride.
 
I have the same fear so i got some you can join together I have an elastic band on my other pair have you thought of metcane reins (think thats how you spell it.)
 
I do like the idea with the splits that they aren't going to get their legs stuck in them in they dump me, I like longer reins so it's always a fear of mine.
 
I know that with the traditional split rein combination that are fastened with leather ties, the leather ties will easily break if a horse steps on a rein (been there, done that :redface: )

Now with the recent rope reins with spring clip, or equivalent, I don't know if they're just a bit too unbreakable ?

I prefer my split reins and each rein measures around 2m20 (86")
They do "dangle" quite low but I've never really noticed that the horses have a problem with this, TBH
There's no reason that you drop one mid-ride but you can also cross the reins over the horse's neck and hold them a bit like looped reins if you like :smile:
Otherwise you could maybe consider some romals ?
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I rode with some leather split reins that came with a bridle I bought once, and remember they kept slipping off the saddle and falling to the floor when I was tacking up, I am looking at 14mm rope for the split reins, which would hopefully have a bit more weight behind it and not slip off?

I have/had a pair of rope reins that my TB stood on and broke the clip, they were pretty much useless after that as reins (I used them as a lead rope) which is why I try to avoid the reins that are spliced around the clips. I will be making these reins myself and using water straps, so the leather lace can snap if needs be.
 
I have recently overcome my anxiety over riding with split reins! (I ended up joining my first set last year - much to the amusement of my experienced friend :giggle:)
I too was concerned over dropping one. My answer was to buy 8' ones that hung down so far each side they weren't going anywhere. Of course that is only going to work if you are riding two handed, which I am at present. I have been really pleased with them and have done a couple of pleasure rides with them and canter work no problem (which worried me before). I can of course hold the reins with one hand and keep them crossed over. Next step letting them both go down one side!
I do like the look of romal reins though and I may get a set in the future.
 
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