Starting a young horse under saddle is an exciting milestone, but it also requires patience, planning, and the right equipment. The tack you choose plays a major role in shaping your horse’s early training experience. Poorly fitted or uncomfortable gear can cause confusion or resistance, while well-designed, properly adjusted tack builds trust and confidence.
If you’re beginning the training journey, focus on comfort, simplicity, and communication. Here’s a look at the must-have starter tack for young horses, featuring thoughtful, horse-friendly options from Grewal Equestrian.
1. Choosing the Right Bridle for Young Horses
A bridle is one of the most important pieces of training tack. It’s your primary means of communication. For a young horse just learning to accept contact, an anatomical bridle can make all the difference.
Unlike traditional designs, anatomical bridles are shaped to follow the natural curves of the horse’s head, reducing pressure on sensitive areas like the poll and facial nerves. This allows your horse to relax and focus on your cues instead of discomfort.
Check out the following from our selection of bridles:
- Cobra Snakeskin Embossed Monocrown Bridle
- Cologne Snaffle Bridle with Beaded Browband
- Marco Simone Italian Leather Monocrown Bridle
- Munich Square Raised Bridle
- Southport Dressage Bridle
- Wicker Braided Monocrown Bridle
These bridles all have a padding and a contoured crown piece for comfort.
2. The Role of Simple Martingales in Early Training
When it comes to guiding a young horse’s head carriage and contact, running martingales are invaluable. A running martingale helps encourage a consistent frame and prevents the horse from throwing its head too high, without restricting natural movement. The Grewal Flat Running Martingale and the Broadmoor Breastplate with Running Martingale are great choices for training.
The key is keeping it simple and correctly adjusted. Overly tight or complicated setups can confuse a horse still learning basic cues.
3. Padded Girths: Comfort That Builds Confidence
A young horse’s comfort under the saddle starts with the girth. A poorly fitted girth can pinch or rub, leading to tension or “girthiness.” That’s why choosing a padded leather girth with thoughtful design and materials is key.
The Adjustable Girth, and Anatomic Contoured Girth feature supple leather, soft cushioning, and elastic ends for even pressure distribution. Its contoured shape prevents pinching while allowing freedom of movement—perfect for sensitive, developing horses.
A comfortable girth helps your young horse associate saddling and riding with a positive experience, laying the groundwork for calm, cooperative behavior.
4. Training Reins That Teach Softness
Good hands start with good reins and training reins designed for responsiveness can help both horse and rider feel more connected. Grewal Equestrian Leather Draw Reins with Snap Hooks and Girth Loop can help teach the horse to give to the bit at the poll, and provide more control. It's important not to use draw reins too tight, as they can restrict the neck and discourage forward movement. But used lightly, draw reins are a great training tool.
Choose reins that are lightweight yet grippy enough to provide consistent contact. Balanced, well-made reins encourage you to ride with quiet hands, which in turn helps your horse learn to trust the bit.
5. Fitting and Adjusting Tack for the Developing Horse
Young horses change rapidly as they grow and build muscle. That’s why regular tack checks are a must. Make it a habit to assess your bridle, martingale, and girth fit every few weeks, especially during growth spurts.
A few tips to keep in mind:
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Ensure padding sits evenly without pinching or rubbing.
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Reins and martingales should allow for a natural neck stretch.
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Girths should be snug but never tight. You should comfortably fit two fingers between the girth and your horse’s side.
Regular adjustments ensure your horse remains comfortable and receptive throughout training.
6. Building Positive Habits Through Consistent Gear
Consistency is one of the greatest gifts you can give a young horse. Using the same, well-fitted tack helps your horse build confidence in familiar sensations and cues. When they associate training sessions with comfort and clarity, learning becomes faster, safer, and more enjoyable for both of you.
Set your horse up for success with quality tack built to support growth and confidence.
Explore Grewal Equestrian’s full pony collection for premium anatomical bridles, martingales, padded girths, and reins that help every ride feel balanced and positive.
FAQ: Starter Tack for Training Young Horses
What tack do you need to start a young horse under saddle?
You’ll need a well-fitting saddle and bridle, a padded girth, simple martingale, and durable reins. Each piece should be lightweight, comfortable, and properly adjusted to your young horse’s size and conformation.
Why is an anatomical bridle better for a young horse?
Anatomical bridles reduce pressure on sensitive nerves and promote even contact, helping young horses stay relaxed while learning to accept the bit and rider aids.
How tight should a girth be for a green horse?
A girth should be snug enough to keep the saddle secure but loose enough to fit two fingers between the girth and your horse’s side. Over-tightening can cause discomfort or girthiness.
Should I use a martingale when training a young horse?
A simple running martingale can encourage steadier head carriage and prevent a horse from raising its head too high, but it should be adjusted to allow natural movement and comfort.
How often should I check the fit of my young horse’s tack?
Every few weeks during training, especially if your horse is growing or building muscle. Properly fitted tack ensures comfort and prevents bad habits or soreness.
Invest in Comfort
Every great partnership starts with trust and trust begins with comfort. By choosing starter tack designed with the young horse in mind, you give your equine partner the best chance to learn with confidence and ease.
Whether you’re lunging, schooling, or introducing new aids, Grewal Equestrian’s tack delivers the comfort, adjustability, and durability needed for early training success.
