Horse reins can be rolled or braided to increase durability. This process ensures that the layered construction resists abrasions and or tears thus promoting the longevity of the product. This is especially useful for reins that are made from materials such as cotton. These fibers tend to have visible loose strands that can be caught against metal and edges and being to fray. Keeping these materials braided ensures the structure does not come loose while riding.

A variety of reins are constructed from leather. Although this is a strong and durable material with many property benefits, the material has a few weaknesses that can be addressed to improve durability. For example, applying oil to leather stops it from drying out. When leather becomes too dry it can crack and begin to break down. Some manufacturers oil reins by hand before distribution but oils can be purchased separately to ensure you reins are kept in good condition.

The oiling of a leather rein also prevents it from absorbing too much water or moisture especially if you have been riding in the rain. Leather is naturally absorbent and when it takes on too much water it can cause the material to swell and become warped. When the water evaporates it tends to take any internal oils along with it. If not well greased this can leave your rein lose its flexibility, becoming stiff and unworkable. Regularly oiling your leather reins will help maintain their strength and ensure peak performance.

Some manufacturers coat their reins with a product called biothane. It is a coated webbing made commonly from polyester and coated with a thin layer of plastic. Since this is a synthetic material, it is water resistant and does not tend to absorb moisture easily. This coating not only strengthens the integrity of the product but it also offers waterproofing properties. This is ideal for leather reins and for riders who may need their reins to withstand the rain and exposure to moisture.

Nylon is sometimes used to make horse reins instead of leather as it offers riders a few added benefits. Nylon is a synthetic fiber that offers a high level of strength and durability. It is also not as absorbent so it can be used in the rain without losing its flexibility, shape or efficiency. This also means that it will not dry out and is not prone to the same level of environmental damage. It is also easier to upkeep as it does not require supplies found outside of a traditional home. Soap and or water can be used to refresh a nylon rein or it can simply tumbled in a washing machine.

Rubber is commonly used in the webbing or the lining of a horse rein. This helps to keep the product lightweight and increase its durability. When used in the rein lining, this material improves user grip and lowers the risk of your rein slipping out of your hands while riding. This material also provides excellent contact which is essential for communicating with your horse especially when engaging in competitive sport.

Leather is one of the most common materials used in the manufacturing of horse reins due to its strength and tremendous ability to withstand high amounts of wear. Good quality leather extends the longevity of the product and has a direct effect on its efficiency. If a high grade of leather is used and cut appropriately it can give the feel of weighted reins. This improves its drop and can also reduce the level of wear experienced during use. Heavier reins are easier to maneuver and highly effective when driving your horse.

Cotton is a great material to use in the webbing of a horse rein. It is a very strong naturally occurring material which ensures the durability of your product. It is a very light material and offers a high level of comfort for riders. It also improves their grip and prevents the reins from slipping out their hands while riding. It is a fairly inexpensive material and use of it during the manufacturing process helps to make reins more affordable.

Polyester is sometimes used in the products created to coat horse reins such as Bothane. This is beneficial as the synthetic fiber is not only strong but lacks the ability to absorb water and moisture effectively. This, therefore, makes it a great waterproofing material which can overlay other materials such as leather to prevent it from warping when wet or losing its moisture and flexibility. Used effectively it increases product durability and efficiency.

Horse reins can be as short as 5 to 6 feet and can get as long as 10 feet. Some brands offer reins as long as 30 feet in length. The length of your rein depends on a number of factors such as style, purpose, and adjustability. For example, western reins tend to be on average 6 feet in length. These can be adjusted to a length that is comfortable for you when you ride. If competing in a pleasure event longer reins tend to give your horse a more pleasing and distinguished look.

Many brands carry reins that range between 7 feet and 8 feet. This length is ideal for racing competitions. It gives the rider enough room to maneuver both long and short turns and can quickly and easily be adjusted due to the lack of slack. This also makes it easy for quick and concise communication with your horse and gives you the ability to make split-second decisions. Based on the type of your rein you may need to adjust its length to accommodate set up.

English styled reins, for instance, are connected on either side of the horse and then clipped together before reaching the rider. This style requires a longer rein than you would if you were to use the split style reins where the two sides of the rein never meet. Closed reins require the shortest distance and typically carry a shorter length than split reins. The type of riding you intend to do as well as the style of rein are good indicators when selecting the length of rope that will work well for you.

There are four main styles of rein used for horseback riding and each can affect your ability to communicate with your horse. This is due to the way each rein type is attached to the bit. An English rein for example generally comes in pairs and although they are attached to separate bits they are then connected together. These generally have a lot of stretch and can be braided. They may also feature webbing which is used to prevent the rein from slipping out your hands while riding.

Spit reins are the most commonly used in competitions such as western pleasure or horsemanship. These do not attach to each other as is the case with an English rein, however, they are flat and smooth and usually require a longer length of rein. A split rein can measure anywhere from 6 feet to 8 feet in length. This allows for increased maneuverability and better communication between a horse and its rider.

Western closed reins are attached to the bit and then looped around the horse's neck which prevents the rein from becoming tangled or from being caught under the horse if it accidentally slips out of your grasp. This type of rein helps protect both you and your horse and can be made from materials such as nylon, polyester, and cotton. These promote a comfortable fit for your horse as well as added comfort in the hands of the rider.

Mecate reins are not widely used. This is due to the fact that it requires a specific bridle and must be attached using a unique knot. With such a variety when it comes to rein selection, it is easy to select one that suits your riding style. Your selection rein selection will decide how efficiently you and your horse perform whether you are doing everyday riding or participating in a competition.

Weighted reins help to ensure the durability of your horse reins. Bases on the way the leather is cut the weight of the reins can fall in alternate placed that can cause a high degree of wear. Reins that are weighted properly will give a better grip and drape properly creating balance. Reins that are balanced generally do not suffer as much damage from wear as those that are lightweight or fall at an imbalance.

English reins tend to use smaller saddles that are much lighter than those used with other styled reins. They are more of a military mount but can be used for a variety of riding activities including speed games, equitation, and roping. It is an excellent choice for someone learning to ride for the first time as these types of reins and saddles are designed to avoid disruption of your horse’s movements.

English riders also tend to use closed reins. This type of horse rein is used in rodeo events since they are tied together and offer a greater level of stability. It prevents the rider from accidentally dropping the reins as well as the possibility of it falling under the horse which can easily cause injury to both the horse and its rider. Western riders also use a single closed rein for this type of event.

Split reins are traditionally used by western riders. They are not tied together as is the case with English or loop reins. This gives the added benefit of protecting your horse from becoming tangled in the rope and injuring itself after you have dismounted. These reins are much longer than most other styled reins and care should be taken to protect yourself and your horse. These can generally be used for horsemanship as they create an appealing drop. They can also be utilized for everyday use.