Young, strong or lively horses can often be tricky to handle, which can be dangerous. Some handlers opt for leading horses in a bridle or chifney, but one of the best control headcollars is also a good option. While rope halters offer a finer aid, control headcollars do what the name suggests – increase your level of control.
Whether you’re hoping to work on specific groundwork, improve general handling or stop your horse being pushy, control headcollars can be useful. Some designs offer varying levels of influence as well as general used, while others should be used for in-hand work only and cannot be used for tying up.
Best control headcollars for strong horses
LeMieux ProSafe Headcollar
Colours: Black
Sizes: Pony, cob, full or extra-full
RRP: £34.95
Designed for perfect control in hand, and ideal for lively horses and ponies, stallions and young stock, this headcollar has a triple ring design that offers three options for varied level of control. The padded nose and poll allow for shock-absorbing comfort and the headpiece is adjustable on both sides.
Designed for in-hand use only – not suitable for tying up.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or naylors.com
Monty Roberts Dually Halter
Colours: Dependent on size
Sizes: Mini, extra-small, small, medium or large
RRP: £52.95
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or ebay.co.uk
In the US? View now at amazon.com
Eskadron Control Headcollar
Colours: Navy or blue
Sizes: Pony, cob, full or extra-full
RRP: £52.95
This headcollar has an integrated lead chain that gives three options of use – as a normal headcollar, with influence or with strong influence – depending on where you clip the leadrope.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or ebay.co.uk
LeMieux Rope Control Headcollar
Colours: Black or brown
Sizes: Cob or full
RRP: £69.95
This rope version of the popular ProSafe Headcollar offers a variation to using a chain. Designed for in-hand use only – not suitable for tying up.
In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or ebay.co.uk
HKM Safe Control Headcollar
Colours: Black
Sizes: Pony, cob or full
RRP: £40
This patented headcollar offers additional control with a pull-up system that applies pressure on the nose and lower jaw. It has a padded headpiece that you can adjust on both sides with four exchangeable nose pieces – either with iron, chain, cord, or standard, but always padded.
Can be used for tying up if the clip is attached to the standard ring.
In the UK? View now at gsequestrian.co.uk
You might also like:
7 rope halters that give more precise aids for training
Leather headcollars for travelling, competing and everyday wear
Natural horsemanship: ‘just good, common sense horsemanship’ or something else?
Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round
The Chifney bit: useful or dangerous?
Designed for horses that are difficult to lead, the Chifney bit has a reputation for being severe if used in
Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.
