HFI Headstall Mexican

Cob suits a finer head, Full an average to large horse's head. Measure the length of your current noseband and headpiece and compare before you choose.

Fitting a grackle noseband deserves attention. The crossing point belongs in the middle of the nasal bone, well above the soft part of the nose, and the upper straps run below the cheekbone without rubbing against it. Fasten the straps so that you can still slide two fingers underneath. Doing them up too tightly removes the very advantage of the wider pressure distribution.

Check regularly that the fur lining is still clean: sand and sweat in the fur rub harder than the leather itself. Beat or brush the fur out and let it dry. Treat the leather with leather soap and afterwards with leather balm or leather oil. Stainless steel buckles are simply wiped dry.

This bridle is meant for riders who want a grackle noseband: usually show jumpers and event riders, and riders of horses that try to evade the bit during work. It is also a common model across country and for fast work outdoors.

If you ride dressage or want a classic look, a bridle with an ordinary or combined noseband from our range makes more sense. If you specifically want a flash strap below the bit, this model does not offer that: a grackle noseband works on a different principle. And if you want a black bridle, look at another model, because this one comes in brown.

The upper straps run below the cheekbone without rubbing against it. Fasten the straps so that you can still slide two fingers underneath: doing them up too tightly removes the advantage of the wider pressure distribution. Reins are not included.

Check regularly that the fur lining is still clean, as sand and sweat in the fur rub harder than the leather. Beat or brush the fur out and let it dry. Treat the leather with leather soap and then leather balm or leather oil; wipe the stainless steel buckles dry.

Are the reins included?
No. The bridle is supplied without reins.

Which size should I take?
Cob for a finer head, Full for an average to large horse's head. Compare with the noseband and headpiece of your current bridle.

Does this bridle come in other sizes?
The sizes we stock as standard are listed under the technical specifications. Other sizes can be ordered in on request.

What type of noseband does this bridle have?
A grackle noseband: two straps that cross high over the nasal bone.

What is the difference with a combined noseband?
A combined noseband has a flash strap below the bit. A grackle noseband does not; it works with a crossed shape that acts higher up and spreads the pressure across a larger surface.

Am I allowed to compete with this?
Rules on nosebands differ per discipline and per federation and are updated over time. So check the current regulations of your own discipline and federation.

How do I care for the leather and the fur?
Clean the leather with leather soap and treat afterwards with leather balm or leather oil. Brush or beat out the fur and let it air dry.

In which colour is this bridle available?
In brown.

• HFI snaffle bridle with grackle noseband
• Crossed noseband that sits high on the nasal bone and spreads the pressure more widely
• Soft fur lining over the nasal bone against rubbing
• Anatomic headpiece with extra room behind the ears
• Stainless steel buckles and firm leather
• Available in brown, in sizes Cob and Full
• Mainly used in jumping and eventing
• Reins are not included