Horse Riding Reins
Contact you can trust.
Rubber, half rubber, plain, laced and web reins — plus side reins for lunging — in pony, cob and full.
Horse Riding Reins
Reins are your direct line to the bit, so grip and feel matter. The main choices are rubber reins (the best all-weather grip), half rubber (grip inside, smart outside), plain leather (the classic show look), laced and web reins (light with added texture), and side reins for lunging and groundwork. Just Horse Riders stocks around 250 options from brands including John Whitaker, Hy, Gallop and Windsor, from around £7.
Free UK delivery over £50 · Fast next-day delivery available · 90-day returns · Family-run UK retailer since 2010.
Rein advice from the Just Horse Riders team — last reviewed June 2026.
Which reins do I need?
| Type | Best for |
|---|---|
| Rubber grip | Everyday riding, hacking, wet weather — maximum grip |
| Half rubber | Grip on the inside with a smarter outside |
| Plain leather | The traditional show and dressage look |
| Laced / web | Light, flexible feel with extra texture |
| Continental (training) | Hand loops for consistent contact — popular for novices |
| Side reins | Lunging and groundwork (experienced handlers) |
What length reins do I need?
Reins follow bridle sizing — pony, cob and full. As a guide, full-size reins are around 54 to 60 inches per side; check the brand's guide if your horse is between sizes. Too short pulls you forward; too long leaves a dangling loop near your foot.
Caring for reins
Check the stitching and billets (the bit ends) regularly — reins take more strain than any other strap on the bridle. Wipe rubber reins clean after wet rides, and feed leather reins the same care as the rest of your tack.
Rein favourites
- Best rubber reins: John Whitaker Ready to Ride Pre-Oiled Rubber Reins (from £25.28).
- Everyday grip: Hy Rubber Grip Reins (from £14.12).
- Smart half rubber: Hy Half Rubber Show Reins (from £13.43).
- Bridle + reins set: Gallop Padded Bridle with Rubber Reins (from £25.72).
- For lunging: Windsor Nylon Elastic Side Reins (from £9.92).
Frequently asked questions
What are the best reins for grip?
Rubber reins give the most secure grip in all weathers, which is why they're the everyday choice for hacking and schooling. Half rubber gives most of that grip with a smarter appearance for shows.
What length reins should I buy?
Match your bridle size — pony, cob or full. Full-size reins run roughly 54 to 60 inches per side. If your horse takes a cob bridle, cob reins will be right for most brands.
What are rein stops for?
Rein stops are small rubber blocks that sit on the reins when you use a running martingale — they stop the martingale rings sliding forward and catching on the bit. Always fit them with a running martingale.
Can beginners use continental training reins?
Yes — the hand loops help novice riders keep an even, consistent contact and stop reins slipping through the fingers. They're a common choice for riding schools and young riders.
Not sure which reins? Tap the WhatsApp button at the bottom of the screen and one of the team will help.