Breastplate
The breastplate is an optional part of a horse's equipment that prevents the saddle from sliding backwards. This is achieved by a wide strap made of leather or fabric, which is attached at the ends to the saddle in the area of the saddle compartment ( Maria-Hilf eyelets ) and leads around the horse's chest below the neck .
Optionally, the strap can be attached to the saddle girth through an additional piece between the horse's front legs. These breastplates are mostly used in combination with a martingale .
Breastplates with an elastic insert are mainly used in jumping and eventing. Often they are also lined with sheepskin so that the iron rings don't rub.
Breastplates are mainly used in show jumping and cross-country riding, but are also needed when working with young horses whose saddle position is not yet pronounced enough to give the saddle the necessary support. Another use is with school horses that show schools above the ground, since the saddle can also slip easily here, e.g. B. in the levade or the caper .