Ride in Confidence with a Horse Breastplate & Martingale

For additional stability and correct saddle positioning, add a breastplate or a martingale to your equipment. The strap runs across the horse’s chest, connecting to the girth or saddle to hold everything securely.

Our collection includes premium leather or synthetic breastplates and martingales from Zilco, Lumiere, Fort Worth and more.

The Benefits of a Horse Breastplate

Breastplates offer a variety of benefits when riding:

1. Holding the saddle in the correct position to prevent sliding
2. Supporting riders working with horses that have big shoulders

They are available in a 3-point or 5-point style. The number refers to the different points where the breastplate connects:

• 3-point: used in general and cross-country riding for good freedom of movement.
• 5-point: used for eventing and show jumping to add extra stability.

Understanding Horse Martingales

A martingale is similarly constructed of leather or synthetic straps, but this piece of kit offers enhanced control when it comes to the horse’s head carriage. 

It attaches to the breastplate to limit head height of the horse and offers many benefits:

• Improved rider safety
• Increased control
• Rein stability

Explore EQ Saddlery’s Full Range of Equestrian Essentials

EQ Saddlery has a comprehensive collection of equipment including bridles, saddles, girths, halter and lead sets and more, with free delivery on orders over $175.

FAQs

What does a horse breastplate do?

• Assists in holding the saddle in the correct position whilst riding
• Stops the saddle from sliding backwards
• Allows the rider to have more support when riding horses that have big shoulders

How should a breastplate fit a horse? 

There should be sufficient slack between the breastplate and the horse’s chest (enough room to fit a fist), and about a hand’s width between the wither straps and the withers. 

Do all horses need a breastplate? 

Not all horses or disciplines require a breastplate. They’re recommended for stability during jumping and eventing, or additional support on horses with large shoulders or a flat ribcage.