What is the purpose of mecate reins?

Mecate reins are used for early horse training. In fact, the mecate and bosal setup is considered to be a variation on Spanish vaquero training. The weight and texture of the rein helps to facilitate the training by providing subtle cues to the horse.

How do you use a bosal and mecate?

Hold the bosal in front of you in the same position you’d hold it to put it on a horse. Lay the mecate across the bosal heel knot so the knot in the mecate ends up under the bosal. 2. Begin wrapping the mecate around the base of the bosal just in front of the heel knot.

How do you soften a mecate?

Grab a bath towel. With the mecate still coiled up dunk the whole rope in the warm shampoo water. Take the mecate out of the sink, lightly rinse with warm water and damp dry it with the towel, don’t be worried about drying it completely just dry it enough to where it is not dripping wet.

How do you choose a mecate?

Diameter, length and color are the three main choices to make when ordering a mecate.

  1. Diameter. It is a matter of personal preference if the mecate is going to be used on a snaffle bit.
  2. Length. Length is a combination of personal preference and necessity.
  3. Color and Pattern.

What are mecate reins made of?

Modern mecates are made not only of horsehair, but also of synthetic rope, usually of a solid dark color, sometimes with a horsehair tassel at one end and a leather popper or quirt at the other.

How do you apply mecate reins?

Taking the tassel end of the mecate through the “v” part of the bosal, making sure it is facing away from your hanger headstall. Wrap your mecate around the “v” portion of the bosal 3 times. Push the mecate down snug. Reach from underneath and pull down the mecate to form your reins in the length you need.

Are Bosals good for horses?

Bosals don’t have good “brakes” and a bosal in the hands of someone who doesn’t know how to use one — or on the head of a horse that isn’t used to one — can give the green light to a horse with a tendency to run off. Bosals are sometimes used on young pleasure horses being shown in the ring.

When should a bosal be used and why?

The bosal is the nosepiece that when attached to reins and a headstall, creates a hackamore. Thus, the hackamore is used when riding and working with horses in training, and the bosal can be used in place of a halter when doing work on the ground. Ambrosiano, Nancy. 2006.

What is a horse hair rope?

Horsehair rope, commonly called mecate, is lightweight and strong, making it ideal for reins, a traditional hackamore or a lead or tie rope. It is not heavy enough for a lasso. It is traditionally made through twisting loose hair together, much like wool is made into yarn.

How do you clean mecate reins?

If your mecate does get muddy or otherwise dirty, Krause recommends rinsing it in water and hanging it in large coils to dry. Just be aware that every wash will change the feel a little.