Breastplate (tack)

The breastplate is an optional part of the equipment of a horse, with which the saddle prevented from slipping away backward. This is achieved by a broad belt of leather or fabric, which is attached to the ends of the saddle in the tack room ( Mary Help of eyelets ) and runs below the neck to the chest of the horse.

Optionally, the belt is secured by an additional part between the front legs of the horse through the saddle girth. This Breastplates are mostly used in combination with a martingale.

Especially in the show jumping and eventing Breastplates be used with an elastic insert. Often, they are also lined with sheepskin, so that the iron rings do not scrub.

Breastplates are used primarily in jumping and trail riding when used, but with young horses also needed at work, their saddle position is not yet strong enough to give the saddle the necessary support. Another application is in school horses, the show airs above the ground, as here, the saddle can easily slip also, for example, in levade or caper.

• Show jumping
• Riding saddle