Mackey Classic Irish Martingale for Horses
Description
Mackey Classic Irish Martingale - Traditional Leather Rein Connector
The Mackey Classic Irish Martingale is a short leather strap with a ring at each end that the reins pass through, holding them together beneath the horse's neck. It is best for riders who want to stop the reins flipping over the horse's head during jumping, cross country, hunting, fast work or everyday schooling and hacking.
Made using Classic Quality leather and finished with detailed matching stitching, the shaped design sits flat and neat against the reins. Unlike a running or standing martingale, an Irish martingale does not act on the horse's head carriage - it is purely a rein connector.
Key Features
- Classic Quality leather construction
- Detailed matching stitching for a traditional finish
- Shaped profile that lies flat between the reins
- Two rings to thread the reins through
- Suits schooling, hacking, hunting, jumping and cross country
- Works with most standard bridles and rein types
- Lightweight and easy to add or remove from your tack
Specifications
| Brand | Mackey |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Classic Irish Martingale |
| Type | Irish martingale / rein connector |
| Material | Classic Quality leather |
| Finish | Matching stitching, shaped |
| Fittings | Two rings for reins |
| Suitable For | Horse, cob and pony with standard reins |
| Country of Origin | India |
Browse more bridlework and rein accessories in our bridle accessories collection.
How to Use
- Unbuckle the reins at the centre so the two rein ends are free.
- Thread the left rein through one ring of the martingale and the right rein through the other.
- Re-buckle the reins as normal, keeping the martingale sitting beneath the horse's neck.
- Check the leather is not twisted and that both reins slide freely through the rings.
- Inspect the stitching and rings before each ride, then mount and take up an even contact.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an Irish martingale actually do?
It joins the two reins together with a short leather strap, so if the rider loses contact or the horse throws its head the reins cannot flip over the horse's neck. It has no effect on head carriage.
Is an Irish martingale the same as a running martingale?
No. A running martingale attaches to the girth and the noseband or breastplate and influences the angle of rein pressure. An Irish martingale is simply a rein connector and applies no additional pressure.
Do I need a neck strap or breastplate with it?
No. An Irish martingale is free-floating on the reins and does not attach to the girth, breastplate or noseband, so no extra fittings are required.
Will it fit my horse's reins?
It suits standard bridle reins on horses, cobs and ponies. Very wide or heavily padded reins may be a tighter fit through the rings, so check the width of your reins before ordering.
What is it made from?
Classic Quality leather with detailed matching stitching and a shaped profile.
How should I look after it?
Wipe the leather with a damp cloth after use, condition regularly with a leather balm or oil and allow it to dry naturally away from direct heat. Replace the item if the stitching or leather becomes worn.
About Mackey
Mackey produce traditional equestrian leatherwork and everyday yard essentials. The Classic range concentrates on honest, well-stitched leather tack designed for regular use in the stable, the school and out hacking.