Field Safe Headcollars

Field Safe Headcollars

Field Safe Headcollars (also known as safety headcollars) are designed specifically for horses to wear safely while turned out in the field. Unlike standard headcollars, these are equipped with built-in safety features that reduce the risk of injury should the horse become caught on fencing, branches, or other obstacles in the paddock or field.

Key Features of Field Safe Headcollars:

1. Breakaway Safety Feature:
   • The most important aspect of a field-safe headcollar is its breakaway design. This is often achieved with a breakaway strap or a weak point that will snap under pressure if the horse gets caught on something. This prevents the horse from becoming panicked or injured while attempting to free itself.
   • Some headcollars use a leather crown piece (or a leather section at the poll), which is designed to break under strain. Others may have a specific section made from Velcro, elastic, or thin material that will release when necessary.
2. Lightweight Design:
   • Field-safe headcollars are generally lightweight to ensure the horse’s comfort while wearing it for extended periods of time in the field. They avoid heavy materials or excessive hardware to reduce the risk of discomfort or accidents.
3. Adjustable Straps:
   • Like other headcollars, field-safe models are often adjustable at the noseband and crown to ensure a snug and comfortable fit. A well-fitting headcollar is important, as one that is too loose could increase the risk of the horse getting it caught on something.
4. Durable Materials:
   • Nylon, synthetic webbing, or leather are commonly used in field-safe headcollars. While designed to be lightweight, they still need to be durable enough to withstand daily wear and tear in outdoor environments.
   • In some cases, manufacturers use reflective materials to make the headcollar more visible in low light conditions, such as during dawn or dusk, which is useful if you need to spot your horse from a distance.
5. Padded Sections for Comfort:
   • Some field-safe headcollars include padding around the noseband and crownpiece to prevent rubbing or irritation when worn for long periods. This is particularly useful for horses with sensitive skin or those prone to chafing.

Safety Mechanisms in Field Safe Headcollars:

1. Breakaway Leather Straps:

   • Some headcollars feature a leather crown strap, which will break if the horse pulls hard enough. Leather is both strong enough to hold the headcollar in place during regular use but designed to snap under extreme pressure.

2. Velcro Breakaway Straps:

   • Velcro straps are another popular safety feature. These will release quickly if the horse becomes caught, allowing the horse to free itself from the headcollar.

3. Elastic Inserts:

   • Some field-safe headcollars use elastic inserts on the crown or sides of the headcollar, providing stretch and breakaway functionality when needed. This is an alternative to Velcro or leather straps.

4. Buckles with Break Points:

   • Certain designs include buckles or clips that are designed to come undone under force. These provide an additional layer of safety in case the other breakaway points don’t activate.

Benefits of Field Safe Headcollars:

1. Reduced Risk of Injury:

   • The primary benefit of a field-safe headcollar is the reduced risk of injury when the horse is turned out. Horses can easily get their halters caught on objects, which can lead to dangerous situations if the halter doesn’t break away.

2. Comfort for Long-Term Use:

   • These headcollars are designed to be comfortable for extended wear. Horses turned out in the field for hours or even days benefit from the lightweight and adjustable fit of a field-safe halter.

3. Ease of Catching:

   • A field-safe headcollar is useful for owners who prefer to leave a headcollar on their horse in the field for easy catching. The safety features mean that owners can leave the headcollar on with confidence that the horse won’t be at risk if it gets caught.

4. Visibility:

   • Many field-safe headcollars come in bright colors or have reflective materials, making it easier to spot the horse in large fields or low light conditions. This added visibility is helpful for locating horses at a distance.

Common Uses for Field Safe Headcollars:

1. Turnout:

   • Field-safe headcollars are ideal for horses that are turned out for extended periods, especially in environments where they may come into contact with fences, trees, or other potential hazards.

2. Horses that Are Hard to Catch:

   • If a horse is difficult to catch, leaving a field-safe headcollar on can make it easier for handlers to approach and halter the horse without compromising safety.

3. Transport:

   • Field-safe headcollars can also be useful during transport, especially for horses that may panic or become stressed. The breakaway design ensures that if the horse struggles, the headcollar will release rather than lead to injury.

Popular Brands Offering Field Safe Headcollars:

1. Rhinegold Field Safe Headcollar:

   • Rhinegold produces a variety of field-safe headcollars with built-in Velcro safety release points. They often feature padded nosebands and adjustable straps, making them comfortable and secure for long-term use.

2. LeMieux Field Safe Headcollar:

   • Known for quality and durability, LeMieux offers field-safe headcollars with soft, padded areas and a breakaway mechanism, typically designed with Velcro or leather sections to release when necessary.

3. Thinline Field Safe Halters:

   • Thinline produces field-safe halters that work inconjunction with their grazing muzzles as well as stand alont halters. These halters are designed with a leather headpiece that breaks and can be easily replaced.

4. Equilibrium Field Safe Headcollars:

   • Equilibrium offers durable, high-quality headcollars with safety features like poppers or breakaway buckles. These halters come in a range of colors and are known for their robust construction.

5. Hy Equestrian Field Safe Headcollars:

   • Hy Equestrian produces affordable field-safe headcollars that are practical and feature leather or Velcro breakaway points. Their designs are popular among everyday riders looking for reliable turnout safety.

Choosing the Right Field Safe Headcollar:

1. Breakaway Mechanism:

   • Consider whether you prefer a Velcro release or leather breakaway strap. Velcro tends to release quickly and easily, while leather provides a more traditional breakaway method that may offer a bit more durability.

2. Fit and Adjustability:

   • Ensure that the headcollar is adjustable, especially around the noseband and crown, to fit your horse comfortably. A well-fitted headcollar is less likely to shift or cause discomfort during turnout.

3. Padded vs. Non-Padded:

   • If your horse is sensitive or prone to rubbing, opt for a headcollar with padded sections on the noseband and crownpiece for added comfort during long periods of wear.

4. Visibility:

   • Choose bright colors or reflective materials if you want to easily spot your horse in the field. This is especially useful for larger paddocks or for horses turned out at night.

5. Durability:

   • Look for high-quality materials, especially if your horse will wear the headcollar frequently. Nylon or leather are commonly used and should be durable enough to last through regular turnout conditions.

Care for Field Safe Headcollars:

• Regular Inspection: Check the breakaway points (Velcro, leather, or elastic) regularly to ensure they are in good working order. Replace the headcollar if the breakaway mechanism shows signs of wear or is no longer functioning properly.
• Cleaning: Nylon and synthetic materials can often be machine washed or wiped down. Leather straps may require special care, such as cleaning with saddle soap and conditioning to keep them supple.