Choosing the right reins: A Comprehensive Buyer’s Guide

Why is choosing the right reins so important?

How do you control a horse using reins?

Reins are a rider’s primary tool for communicating with a horse. Pulling on the reins slows, turns, or stops a horse, while subtle checks on the rein signal what the rider needs the horse to do. When reins are used well, you can communicate clearly with your horse, improving both control and performance.

How do I stop my horse pulling down on the reins?

Stopping a horse from pulling can be challenging. Specialised reins, such as grass reins or daisy reins, can help by limiting the horse’s ability to pull. Balanced Support Reins reduce the strength needed, making them ideal for smaller, inexperienced riders or those with a weak grip.

Why do horses drop their heads?

Horses drop their heads for several reasons:

• Reaching for grass because they fancy a snack or out of habit
• Acting up because they are feeling irritated or uncomfortable
• Testing the rider’s limits
• Or because they are just being cheeky

Understanding why they might be doing it and checking that their saddle is comfortably fitted for example, can help address this problem. If the behaviour persists, specialised reins can help.

What should I consider when choosing reins?

What kind of reins should I use?

When considering what reins to choose, factors to include are:

• Control
• Comfort and grip
• Durability
• Adaptability

The reins should:

• Suit the rider’s strength, age and ability
• Be easy to grip and handle
• Be made from materials that match the type of riding and weather conditions
• Have features that make them adaptable for young, disabled, or less experienced riders
  

Choosing the best reins

Main benefit you’re looking for	Recommended reins
Added control	Balanced Support Reins
Comfort and grip	Rubber grip or half rubber reins
Style and appearance	Plaited leather reins
Durability	Rubber web or leather

What are the styles of reins?

For leisure riders, the style may matter less, but for competitive riders, the choice can add not just to your appearance but to your performance too.

Reins come in various styles and materials, catering to different riding disciplines:

• Rubber Grip Reins: ideal for a firm grip
• Plaited Leather Reins: popular for showing due to their smart appearance
• Plain Leather Reins with looped handles: For those with a weaker grip and a classic choice for show jumping
• Half Rubber Reins: combine grip and style for versatility
  

How do I measure and choose the correct size for my horse or pony?

What size reins do I need?

The rein size you need depends on both the size of the horse or pony and the rider’s needs. 

Whether you’re selecting reins for an extra small pony or a large horse, the right size ensures increased control and comfort. 

Sizes range from Extra Small Pony (ideal for minis and Shetlands) to Full (suited for larger horses).

For a detailed breakdown and guidance on finding the perfect fit, see our horse sizing guide and product sizing guide.

Step-by-step fitting guide

• Attach the reins as normal
• Attach the elastic reins to the D-rings on your saddle. Some people don’t have these. If this is the case, we offer leather D ring replacers or extenders which attach to the stirrups.
• Don’t cross them over – they run alongside the rein
• Attach them to the D ring nearest to the rider’s hands so that they are loose
• Avoid letting the elastic support reins dangle.
• Connect the bit to the rein – through the leather billets
• Make sure that the reins aren’t stretched and pulling the pony’s head up to the vertical
• For the first use the horse or pony should be led without a rider. This lets them get used to the feel
• When the rider is mounted and has contact with the rein the elastic support straps should slacken. They can be adjusted via the buckle holes if they are too tight.
  

Watch our Fitting Video for more detailed instructions.

What materials are reins made from and why?

Reins are made from various materials to suit different needs. When deciding which reins to buy, think about the conditions you’ll be riding in, your experience level, and how much maintenance you’re willing to do. 

Rubber grip reins and rubber web reins are great for beginners or casual riders because they’re easy to maintain and provide a solid grip.

Leather reins are better if you're competing or want something that looks more traditional, but they do require care through regular oiling.

What makes balanced support reins different from traditional reins?

Balanced Support Reins offer the best of both worlds. All our reins are designed with a patented feature to provide extra control, stability and comfort using durable materials:

• Rubber Web are budget-friendly and Coloured Rubber Training Reins are practical for absolute beginners.
• Leather Reins are durable, stylish, and ideal for competitive riding. Whether Plain, Plaited or Notched Leather, with regular oiling these will give you years of use.
• Full Rubber and Half Rubber reins are a lower maintenance option
• Loop Handled Reins are ideal for riders who have difficulty with gripping standard reins.

Each pair comes with a care tag to help you look after your reins, so you can keep them in top condition for years to come.

Bulk buys and special offers

Riding schools and instructors can benefit from discounted rates on larger orders. Contact us for more details.

Balanced Support Reins: your practical questions answered

How should you hold your reins?

Hold them as you would any other reins, ensuring a firm but gentle grip. For beginners, consider Coloured Training Reins to guide proper hand placement.

What to do if you’ve bought the wrong size or want to return your reins?

Should you need to change or return your reins, all the information you need is on our Returns and Exchanges page. 

Where to buy Balanced Support Reins

Balanced Support Reins have a patented design, shipping worldwide. Purchase directly from our website or from our official stockists to avoid inferior imitations.