Side reins

Side reins are equipment used when longeing a horse, running from the bit of the bridle to the saddle or surcingle.

For longe line work with a rider up who does not carry ordinary riding reins, they help calm and settle the animal.

Side reins are made of leather or webbing, sometimes with added elastic, and have several rings or holes for buckles along their length.

Solid side reins are the older, classical design, give the horse a more solid contact to work into and discourage leaning, but must be adjusted with greater care because their lack of give may upset a sensitive horse and, particularly if too tight, may provoke rearing, headshaking and even panic in some animals.

However, they are heavier and are prone to bounce when the horse trots or canters, which does not provide as steady a contact as the solid or elastic-insert side reins.

Rather, a properly longed horse will collect himself, and the shorter side reins will be the correct length for him to keep a contact with the bit.

When the side reins are first applied during a workout, they should be adjusted long and gradually shortened as the horse warms up into them.

Working a horse in side reins at the walk, other than in brief transitions can spoil the gait by inhibiting forward motion.