Horse Training Aids

Quick answer: Shop equine training aids at iRide EQ. Featuring leading European and Australian equestrian brands including Jump'In, Equifit, and Redgum Saddlery, our training equipment range supports progressive flatwork, groundwork, and jumping development for horses at every stage of training.

Progressive Training Equipment for Groundwork and Ridden Development

Training aids play a key role in developing a balanced, self-carrying equestrian athlete. Whether introducing a young prospect to lunging fundamentals or refining collection and poll flexation in an experienced horse, correct equipment selection ensures physical safety and mental clarity. Quality training gear acts as a temporary teaching framework, encouraging the horse to engage its hindquarters, lift through the back, and maintain a soft, relaxed jaw.

Australian horse owners face unique arena conditions, from hard summer dusty footings to intense UV exposure. Investing in anatomical leatherwork from top manufacturers like Jump'In and shock-absorbing protective gear from Equifit guarantees that your training aids withstand daily arena work while protecting sensitive skin. Combining traditional craftsmanship with modern ergonomic design, these aids help establish rhythm, suppleness, and longitudinal elasticity.

Quick Facts

Best ForGroundwork, flatwork, young horse education, jump schooling

DisciplinesDressage, Show Jumping, Eventing, General Riding

Featured BrandsJump'In, Equifit, Redgum Saddlery

DispatchFast local shipping from our Australian warehouse

Comparing Groundwork, Lunging, and Ridden Training Aids

Selecting the right training aid depends on your horse's educational phase, physical strength, and specific behavioral or movement goals. The table below outlines key differences between common ridden and unmounted training aids to help you choose the ideal system for your schooling routine.

Training Aid	Primary Function	Usage Context	Key Material	Experience Level
Leather Draw Reins	Encourages soft poll flexion and roundness	Ridden flatwork & schooling	French leather with rope ends	Intermediate to Advanced riders
Lunging Cavesson & System	Develops hindquarter activation on line	Unmounted groundwork & rehab	Heavy-duty webbing or leather	All handler levels
Elastic Training Reins	Provides gentle latex tension for contact	Ridden flatwork & lunging	Tubular elastic with leather loops	All rider levels
Running Martingale Attachment	Prevents high head carriage over fences	Show jumping & cross-country	Anatomical leather with rings	All rider levels
Pessoa-Style Lunging Harness	Encourages full top-line stretch	Unmounted conditioning	Soft webbing & sheepskin rollers	Experienced handlers

To maximize training outcomes, combine ridden aids with a well-fitted bridle, a supportive girth, and flexible reins. For detailed groundwork step-by-step routines, explore our riding tips article on Groundwork Exercises Every Horse Needs.

Selecting Training Aids by Discipline and Training Objective

Groundwork and Unmounted Conditioning

Groundwork forms the foundation of all ridden success. Using a well-balanced padded leather halter or dedicated lunging cavesson allows handlers to bend and flex the horse without interfering with the mouth. Incorporating lunging aids that clip to the girth encourages the horse to stretch down into a soft contact, strengthening the abdominals and longissimus dorsi muscles before carrying rider weight.

Ridden Flatwork and Contact Correction

Riders struggling with inverted posture or resistance to the bit often turn to leather draw reins or elastic neck stretchers. When attached from the girth through the rings of a smooth bit to the rider's hands, draw reins provide a boundary that rewards yielding. It is essential that these aids are held with subtle feel and released immediately when the horse lowers its neck and softens through the poll.

Jumping Control and Alignment

Over fences, horses require full freedom of the neck while maintaining controlled direction between obstacles. Running martingales and training breastplates—such as those available in our breastplates and martingales collection—keep reins running straight to the bit while preventing sudden upward head tossing. Secure your setup on a stable saddle equipped with protective horse boots on all four legs.

Adjustment, Fit, and Safety Standards

Incorrectly fitted training aids can create anxiety, muscle soreness, or defensive behavior. When fitting draw reins or lunging systems, always allow sufficient length for the horse's nose to stay slightly in front of the vertical. Never fix a horse's head into a rigid position with inelastic side reins while mounted. Regularly check leather billets, stainless steel snaps, and buckle holes for signs of wear or cracking.

Care and Maintenance of Leather and Synthetic Aids

Equipment used close to horse sweat and arena dust requires consistent care. Clean leather components with a damp sponge and dedicated leather soap after use to prevent sweat salt from stiffening the leather. Apply a rich leather balsam monthly to keep straps supple. Synthetic elastic cords and neoprene pads can be hand-washed in warm water with mild livestock soap and hung to dry away from direct heat sources.

Brands We Stock

iRide EQ curates training accessories from trusted international and domestic producers known for safety, durability, and ergonomic design:

Jump'In — Fine French leatherwork, anatomical draw reins, and premium martingale attachments.
Equifit — Advanced shock-absorbing materials, impakt foam, and pressure-relieving training gear.
Redgum Saddlery — Traditional Australian leatherwork designed for rugged everyday arena and trail training.

Why Shop Equine Training Aids at iRide EQ?

Premium European Leather

We source training aids crafted from full-grain vegetable-tanned leather for maximum strength and soft hand-feel.

Fast Australian Shipping

All items are stocked locally in Australia for prompt dispatch and reliable door-to-door tracking.

Expert Equestrian Advice

Our team consists of active riders who understand correct fit and application across jumping and dressage.

Flexible Payment Options

Shop with confidence using convenient payment choices including Afterpay, Zip, Apple Pay, and major credit cards.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main purpose of draw reins in horse training?

Draw reins are designed to give riders a subtle boundary that encourages the horse to yield at the poll and lift the back. They should always be used with a secondary main rein and released as soon as the horse yields.

Can I use lunging aids on a young horse starting training?

Yes, simple lunging aids or cavessons can help a young horse learn voice commands, balance, and rhythm before carrying a rider. Keep sessions short and avoid over-tightening any tension straps.

How do running martingales differ from standing martingales?

A running martingale splits into two straps with rings that slide along the reins, allowing freedom of motion until the horse raises its head too high. A standing martingale clips directly to the noseband and provides a fixed limit, making running martingales preferred for jumping.

Are training aids permitted in Equestrian Australia competitions?

Draw reins and lunging aids are strictly prohibited in competition rings for Dressage and Eventing. Running martingales are allowed in Show Jumping classes and Eventing jumping phases subject to EA gear regulations.

How often should I clean my leather training aids?

Wipe down sweat and dust after every ride with a soft cloth. Perform a full clean and condition with leather cream every two to four weeks depending on usage frequency.

What size training aid should I buy for my horse?

Most training aids come in Cob and Full sizes. Cob fits horses between 14.2hh and 15.2hh, while Full fits horses from 15.2hh to 17hh. Check product measurements for specific strap lengths.