Hackamore is used as an alternative to traditional bits and is something that more and more riders choose to use or alternate with in their riding. Hackamore is a completely bit-less option that works through pressure on the nasal bridge and under the jaw. Hackamores come with both short and long shanks, and the length of these shanks determines how sharp or mild the hackamore is. Longer shanks give a greater leverage ratio, which results in a sharper pressure on the horse's nasal bridge when the rider pulls on the reins. On the other hand, shorter shanks provide mild and direct pressure.
Because the hackamore works through pressure on different parts of the horse's head than a traditional bit, it's important that it's correctly positioned. The noseband should sit a few centimeters below the cheekbone to avoid exerting pressure on the sensitive bone structures. The chin strap or curb chain serves as a balancing factor and prevents excessive upward movement of the hackamore.
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Because the hackamore works through pressure on different parts of the horse's head than a traditional bit, it's important that it's correctly positioned. The noseband should sit a few centimeters below the cheekbone to avoid exerting pressure on the sensitive bone structures. The chin strap or curb chain serves as a balancing factor and prevents excessive upward movement of the hackamore.
There's also the combi-hackamore (or combination bit) which, as the name suggests, combines a regular bit with a Hackamore. You attach your Hackamore to the cheekpieces of the bridle, and it's compatible with most bridles.
