Martingale (tack)

The standing martingale, also known as a "tiedown" or a "head check",[1] has a single strap which is attached to the girth, passes between the horse's front legs and is fixed to the back of the noseband.

When correctly fitted for English riding, it should be possible to push the martingale strap up to touch the horse's throatlatch.

A tiedown is adjusted much shorter than a standing martingale and is intended primarily to prevent the horse from flipping its head up when asked to abruptly stop or turn in speed events.

The noseband can be of leather, but may also be of lariat rope, or even plastic-covered cable, which can make the western tiedown considerably harsher than the English-style standing martingale.

A horse that trips in a standing martingale could potentially fall more easily because its range of motion is restricted.

If a horse falls wearing an incorrectly fitted standing martingale, the animal cannot extend its neck fully, plus will have a more difficult time getting back up.

This may put excessive pressure on the horse's spine, reduce the shock-absorbing capacity of the leg anatomy, and can over time lead to lameness.

The running martingale consists of a strap which is attached to the girth and passes between the horse's front legs before dividing into two pieces.

A running martingale is adjusted so that each of the "forks" has about an inch of slack when the horse holds its head in the normal position.

Running martingales are also used outside of the competition arena on young horses being trained in the Saddle seat, western riding, and many other disciplines.

[1] The primary difficulty in use of a running martingale is the inability to raise the horse's head in the event of the animal bucking.

Improper use includes use on the reins of a curb bit; adjustment too short, so that the equipment pulls the horse's head below the proper position.