How do Balanced Support Reins differ from daisy reins or grass reins?

Confident riders use a mix of tools and techniques to communicate with their horse and guide its movements. These help them to deal with common challenges like a horse that pulls or bolts or grazing while riding.

The reins are used to control the horse's head and neck, and to communicate with the horse through tactile feedback. Different types of reins, such as daisy reins, grass reins, and balanced support reins, can provide different levels of support and guidance for the horse.

So, what are daisy and grass reins? How do they differ to the newer Balanced Support Reins?

Daisy reins

Daisy reins attach to the head piece of the bridle, down the neck and branches to attach to the d ring on the saddle. Daisy reins are used to help control the horse's head and prevent grazing while riding.

Daisy reins consist of two or more straps that attach to the horse's girth - the wide and sturdy strap that fastens under the horse's belly, over the neck to pass through the bit rings, and are then attached to the saddle or held by the rider.

When used correctly, daisy reins provide a gentle and consistent pressure on the horse's mouth, encouraging them to keep their head up and in a more balanced position. Overuse or misuse of daisy reins can cause discomfort and even pain for the horse. They can be a difficult adjustment for some horses.

Grass reins

Grass reins can be a useful tool for controlling grazing behaviour while riding and promote good head carriage. They are an additional set of straps that are attached to the girth, pass through the bit rings and are then attached to the saddle.

They are designed to let the rider control the length of the reins to stop their horse from lowering its head to graze while riding, which can be dangerous. 

One of the benefits of using grass reins is that they are relatively easy to use. They can also be adjusted to fit different horse sizes and shapes. They are also a less severe option compared to martingales or draw reins. Grass reins provide a gentle pressure on the horse's mouth, making it easy for the rider to keep their head up and in a more balanced position. They may however not be effective for stubborn horses or those that are resistant to pressure.

Balanced Support Reins

Balanced Support Reins are a newer type of rein with a patented design that sets them apart from daisy and grass reins.

Unlike daisy and grass reins, which are designed to prevent the horse from lowering their head and grazing while riding, balanced support reins aim to promote relaxation, balance, and correct head carriage while still allowing some freedom for the horse's head and neck.

Balanced Support Reins are adjustable and attach to both the girth and the bit, providing a gentle and consistent contact between the horse's mouth and the rider's hands. They also usually have a wider, flatter, and more comfortable design than traditional reins, preventing rubbing or discomfort for the horse.

The goal of Balanced Support Reins is to help the horse find their natural balance and carriage, while still allowing them some degree of freedom. They are particularly beneficial for riders who are looking for a more comfortable and effective way to support their horse's head and neck while riding.

Find out more about fitting and how the Balanced Support Reins work here.

So, which type of reins is best?

When considering whether the daisy, grass or Balanced Support Reins are the right option for you and your horse it’s important to consider both rider and horse’s ease, comfort and what you want to achieve.

For an experienced rider who wants to correct grazing the daisy or grass reins will provide an adequate solution. For the novice rider, someone with a weaker grip or for an enhanced comfort experience and for both horse and rider the Balanced Support Reins offer a step up from these two options.

We’d love to hear your experiences and insights about using different types of reins in your riding, just tag us on social media.