Every horse owner needs at least one decent headcollar, and most of us end up with a collection of them. They're one of the easiest items to buy second-hand, as long as you know what to look for.
The classic choice, and still the best option for shows, sales, and any occasion where you want your horse to look smart. Good leather headcollars are strong, look well, and will last for years if cared for properly. They're also designed to break under extreme pressure, which is a genuine safety feature if a horse gets caught on something in the field.
The everyday workhorse. Nylon headcollars are cheap, hard-wearing, easy to wash, and come in every colour under the sun. They're the practical choice for daily handling, turnout, and travelling. The downside is that they rarely break under pressure, so some people avoid using them for turnout without a breakaway clip.
Popular with natural horsemanship enthusiasts and widely used in Ireland for groundwork and lunging. The thin rope applies targeted pressure, making them effective for training. They should only be used by experienced handlers, as they can be harsh if used incorrectly.
Smaller and lighter, designed for foals and weanlings. Often adjustable to grow with the youngster. These are a great second-hand buy, as foals outgrow them quickly and they tend to get very little use. You'll find plenty of them in good condition on the Irish market come autumn.
Leather headcollars look better for shows and are the traditional choice for turnout in Ireland, but nylon is far more practical for day-to-day use. Most owners end up with both, a leather one for best and a nylon one for the muck and rain.
Headcollars take a lot of abuse, so give them a proper inspection before handing over any money:
Headcollar sizing is fairly standard across brands. A well-fitted headcollar should sit comfortably, with the noseband about two fingers' width below the cheekbone. Here are the standard sizes:
Small ponies up to around 13.2hh
Larger ponies and cob types, roughly 14hh-15.2hh
Most horses, typically 15.2hh-16.2hh
Warmbloods, draughts, and larger breeds over 16.2hh
Top Tip: Irish Draught crosses and sport horses often fall between cob and full. When in doubt, go up a size, as most headcollars are adjustable enough to take up the slack.
Headcollars are one of the most affordable tack items, even new. Second-hand, you can pick them up for very little:
| Type | New | Second-Hand |
|---|---|---|
| Nylon headcollar | €15-€25 | €5-€10 |
| Leather headcollar | €40-€80 | €15-€30 |
| Rope halter | €15-€30 | €5-€15 |
| Foal headcollar | €15-€30 | €5-€12 |
Prices are estimates based on typical Irish market values. Actual prices vary by brand and condition.
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