Best Equestrian Martingales of 2025
* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Equestrian martingales are a popular piece of horse equipment used to help control and guide the horse's head and neck during riding. There are several types of martingales available, including standing, running, and breastplate martingales. Standing martingales keep the horse's head at a certain height, while running martingales allow more freedom of movement. Breastplate martingales combine the functions of both standing and running martingales, helping to prevent the horse from raising its head too high or pulling too hard on the reins. Martingales can be made from a variety of materials, including leather, nylon, and synthetic materials, and are available in a range of sizes to fit different breeds and sizes of horses.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
#TOP 1
9.9
#TOP 2
9.8
#TOP 3
9.6
Top 10 Equestrian Martingales
Tough 1 Leather Martingale
The Tough 1 Martingale is crafted from top-quality imported leather with smooth edges. It is adjustable at the fork, neck, and girth for a perfect fit. The doubled and sewn design ensures extra strength and durability. This martingale is ideal for setting your horse's head in the right position, providing control and comfort during training sessions.
Weaver Leather Harness German Martingale
Weaver Leather Harness German Martingale is a great equestrian training tool that teaches correct head position and promotes flexion at the poll. It is made from durable, weather-resistant russet harness leather and 1/4 inch nylon rope.
Weaver Leather Running Martingale
The Weaver Leather Martingale is a top-quality equestrian gear designed by Weaver Leather. It features a fully-adjustable design, making it suitable for various horse sizes. Crafted from durable doubled and stitched nylon, this martingale ensures long-lasting performance. The 1-3/4" inch nickel-plated rings add to its durability, while the non-rust stainless steel snap provides easy attachment. These features make the Weaver Leather Martingale a reliable choice for riders looking for a secure and adjustable martingale to help control their horse's head movement.
Mustang Cowboy String Running Martingale
The Mustang Cowboy String Running Martingale, designed for equestrian use, is a durable and adjustable neck string martingale that helps in developing light mouths. The MAX Durable feature ensures longevity and reliability, while the adjustable neck string allows for a customized and secure fit. This martingale is an ideal choice for horse trainers and riders looking for a reliable and effective tool to train their horses.
Weaver Leather Roper/Barrel Style German Martingale
The Weaver Leather Roper/Barrel Style German Martingale, also known as the Weaver Leather German Martingale, is a high-quality equestrian martingale designed to help teach correct head position and promote flexion at the poll. Handcrafted from premium harness leather, this martingale is built to last. The nickel plated hardware adds durability and a touch of style. One of the standout features of this martingale is the variable positioning dees on the roper reins, allowing for customizable rein placement. Whether you're a roper or a barrel racer, this German Martingale from Weaver Leather is a reliable and convenient tool to help improve your horse's performance.
CAMELOT German Martingale Brown
The CAMELOT Martingale Brown is crafted to enhance both durability and functionality, making it easier for you to control your horse safely. Its design prioritizes comfort, ensuring your horse feels at ease during rides. The martingale applies minimal pressure on the noseband, which can help prevent discomfort or stress for your horse. Additionally, the long fork with a snap attachment offers convenience, allowing for quick adjustments when needed. This combination of features makes the CAMELOT Martingale an excellent choice for both you and your horse.
Weaver Leather Roper Martingale
The Weaver Roper Martingale is designed to help you achieve the correct head position for your horse, promoting better flexion at the poll. Made from high-quality Russet harness leather, this product ensures durability and comfort. The nickel-plated hardware adds a touch of style while also enhancing strength and longevity. Additionally, the variable positioning dees on the roper reins allow you to customize the fit and function, making it easier for you to adapt to your horse's needs. This martingale is an excellent choice for those looking to improve their riding experience.
Suffolk Running Martingale
The Suffolk Martingale is a versatile running martingale made of quality leather suitable for both schooling and showing. It is offered at a great price and comes in horse size, making it convenient for various riders. Being a Dover Saddlery brand product, it ensures reliability and durability. With over 40 years of experience, Dover Saddlery is known for providing top-quality equestrian products in the US, guaranteeing you a premium riding experience.
Kincade German Martingale, Black
The Kincade Martingale is crafted from high-quality, supple leather, ensuring durability and comfort for your horse. This martingale is designed to keep your horse's head in a more controlled position, helping to prevent it from being raised too high during rides. Its direct action is especially beneficial for both jumping and flatwork, giving you better communication with your horse. Additionally, it comes with webbing reins, providing everything you need in one package. With its one-size-fits-all design, it’s a convenient option for riders looking to enhance their horse's performance.
Henri de Rivel Raised Martingale
The Henri de Rivel Martingale is designed for both style and functionality. Its standing design helps maintain proper head position for your horse, enhancing control during rides. Made with stainless steel hardware, it ensures durability and strength, giving you peace of mind while riding. The raised white fancy stitching not only adds a touch of elegance but also provides extra grip for better handling. Crafted from imported leather, this martingale offers a comfortable fit for your horse, ensuring they can move freely and confidently.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What does a martingale do for a horse?
A martingale is a piece of equestrian tack that helps control a horse's head carriage and provides additional control, apart from the bit. It prevents the horse from raising its head too high, thus protecting the rider from getting hit in the face.
2. Do martingales work for horses?
Yes, martingales are effective in providing control for horses. While they don't make the horse go faster, they help slow down the horse if it increases speed. They are also used to keep the horse's head up when needed, such as in dressage.
3. What are the two types of martingales?
The two main types of martingales are standing and running martingales. A standing martingale attaches to the girth and runs between the horse's front legs, up to the back of the noseband. On the other hand, a running martingale provides pressure on the horse's head to prevent it from raising too high for the bit to work correctly.
4. Why do horses wear running martingales?
Running martingales are used to exert additional pressure on the horse's head, preventing it from raising its head too high for proper bit control. It works alongside the bridle and bit to give the rider better control over the horse's head.
5. Does a martingale stop head throwing?
Yes, both standing and running martingales are used to control the height of the horse's head and prevent it from throwing its head too high, which could potentially hit the rider's face.
6. What are the pros and cons of a running martingale?
Running martingales are considered less restrictive than standing martingales and are often seen as safer. However, it is important to use rein stops to prevent the rings from slipping down and getting caught on the bit.
7. What is the difference between a martingale and a running martingale?
A running martingale is generally considered safer than a standing martingale because it gives the rider more control over the horse's range of head movement.
8. What are the disadvantages of a running martingale?
One disadvantage of a running martingale is that there is always some pressure on the reins due to the weight of the rings, unless the rider is riding with loose reins. When the rider pulls on the reins, the martingale rings pull down, adding pressure to the bars of the horse's mouth.
9. Does a running martingale stop rearing?
A running martingale can help prevent a horse from rearing too high. It works directly on the horse's head through the noseband and does not require contact on the reins to be effective. However, it must be fitted correctly to work properly.
During our equestrian martingale research, we found 24 equestrian martingale products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 5,028 customer reviews through our big data system to write the equestrian martingales list. We found that most customers choose equestrian martingales with an average price of $47.86.
The equestrian martingales are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of equestrian martingales, including Tough 1, Weaver Leather, MUSTANG, CAMELOT, Suffolk. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 166 consumers with an average rating of 4.4.
Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.