Equi-Sential Leather Running Martingale for Horses

Equi-Sential Running Martingale - Traditional Leather Schooling Tack

The Equi-Sential Running Martingale is a classic leather running martingale that attaches to the girth and passes through the reins to help discourage a horse from carrying its head above the point of control. It is made using Classic Quality leather with detailed matching stitching and a shaped design, and it suits riders schooling, hacking or jumping a horse or pony that occasionally throws its head.

Best for everyday flatwork and jumping where a rider wants a steadier contact without restricting the horse's natural head carriage. Compared with a standing martingale, which fixes to the noseband and gives a fixed limit, a running martingale only acts through the reins and only when the horse raises its head beyond the set point, so the rider retains a more elastic feel.

Key Features

• Made using Classic Quality leather for a traditional look and feel
• Detailed matching stitching throughout for a smart, durable finish
• Shaped construction for a closer, more comfortable fit against the horse
• Buckle adjustable neck strap and fork for individual fitting
• Suitable for schooling, hacking, jumping and general riding
• Coordinates with most standard leather bridles and girths

Specifications

Browse more leatherwork and schooling tack in our martingales and breastplates collection.

How to Use

1. Thread rein stops onto both reins before buckling the reins to the bit.
2. Pass the neck strap over the horse's head and fasten it, adding a martingale stop where the fork meets the neck strap.
3. Run the girth strap between the forelegs and pass the girth through the loop, then do the girth up as normal.
4. Feed each rein through the corresponding martingale ring.
5. Adjust the fork so the rings reach comfortably towards the withers or gullet when held up, with no downward pull on the reins in a normal head position.
6. Check you can fit a hand's width under the neck strap, then recheck the fit once mounted and after the first few rides.

FAQ

What size running martingale do I need?
Martingales are usually sold in pony, cob and full. Choose the size that matches your horse's bridle size, or measure an existing martingale from the girth loop to the rings and compare. Sizing errors are the most common reason for returns, so measure before ordering.

What is the difference between a running and a standing martingale?
A running martingale splits into two rings that the reins pass through and acts only through the reins. A standing martingale attaches directly to the noseband and applies a fixed limit to head height. A running martingale gives a more forgiving action and is permitted in more jumping classes.

Do I need rein stops with this martingale?
Yes. Rein stops on the reins prevent the martingale rings from sliding forward and catching on the rein billets or bit, and a martingale stop should be used where the fork meets the neck strap.

How should a running martingale be fitted?
When the girth strap is attached and the fork is lifted towards the withers, the rings should just reach comfortably without pulling the reins down. You should be able to slide a hand flat under the neck strap.

How do I look after the leather?
Wipe the leather clean with a damp cloth after use, let it dry naturally away from direct heat, and condition regularly with a leather balm or oil. Inspect the stitching, buckles and rings before every ride.

Can it be used for jumping?
Yes, a correctly fitted running martingale is widely used for jumping and cross-country schooling. Always check the rules of your specific discipline and competition before use.

About Equi-Sential

Equi-Sential makes practical, hard-wearing everyday tack and yard equipment for riders who want dependable kit at a sensible level. The leatherwork range focuses on traditional construction and clean stitching for daily use at home and away.