Mackey Classic Bib Martingale for Horses
Description
Mackey Classic Bib Martingale — Supple Leather Schooling Martingale
The Mackey Classic Bib Martingale is a leather martingale with a solid bib panel between the rings, designed to help discourage a horse from carrying its head above the point of control. It suits riders who want the action of a running martingale without the risk of a rein, bit or buckle catching between two separate straps, and works well for schooling, flatwork, jumping and everyday riding.
It is substantially made from quality supple leather, with a 3/4" neck strap and generous adjustment so it can be set up accurately for the individual horse. You can browse more schooling and tack options in our horse tack collection.
Key Features
- Solid bib panel — a tidier, safer alternative to a two-strap running martingale
- Quality supple leather that softens with use and sits comfortably against the coat
- 3/4" neck strap with buckle fastening
- Generous adjustment for accurate fitting across different horse shapes
- Substantially made for regular schooling and yard use
- Traditional styling that pairs with most leather bridles
Specifications
| Brand | Mackey |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Bib martingale |
| Material | Quality supple leather |
| Neck Strap Width | 3/4" |
| Adjustment | Generous adjustment range |
| Best For | Schooling, flatwork, jumping, general riding |
| Country of Origin | India |
How to Use
- Undo the neck strap buckle and pass the strap over the horse's neck, just in front of the withers.
- Pass the loop at the base of the martingale around the girth, between the front legs, before the girth is fully tightened.
- Thread the reins through the martingale rings, with rein stops fitted between the rings and the bit.
- Adjust the neck strap so you can slide a hand comfortably between the strap and the horse's neck.
- Adjust the body so the rings reach roughly to the gullet or the withers when lifted, meaning the martingale only acts when the head is raised beyond the point of control.
- Check the leather, stitching and buckles before each ride, and wipe clean and condition after use.
FAQ
What is a bib martingale and how does it differ from a running martingale?
A bib martingale works in the same way as a running martingale, but a solid leather panel fills the space between the two straps. This prevents a rein, bit or buckle from catching between the straps, which is why bibs are often chosen for strong or exuberant horses.
What is this martingale made from?
It is made from quality supple leather and is substantially built, with a 3/4" neck strap.
How should a bib martingale be fitted?
The neck strap should allow a hand's width between the strap and the neck. The martingale body should be adjusted so it only comes into effect when the horse raises its head above the point of control, never so tight that it restricts normal head carriage.
Do I need rein stops?
Yes. Rein stops should always be fitted between the martingale rings and the bit so the rings cannot slide forward and catch on the bit or rein billets.
Will it fit my horse?
The martingale offers generous adjustment, which helps it fit a range of horse and pony shapes. If your horse sits at the extreme end of a size range, measure from the girth area up to the withers before ordering and compare with your current martingale.
How do I care for the leather?
Wipe off sweat and mud with a damp cloth after riding, allow it to dry naturally away from direct heat, and apply a leather conditioner regularly to keep the hide supple.
About Mackey
Mackey produces traditional leather saddlery and practical everyday equestrian equipment for riders and working yards, with an emphasis on honest construction, sensible adjustment and hard-wearing materials.