>>>Yes, having a halter and leadrope on the horse in addition to the >>>headstall and reins is yet another piece of equipment (why I generally >>>use a halter-headstall), but it is so much kinder to the horse.
We used to simply leave a halter under the headstall, but I've gotten spoiled to the halter/bridle/sidepull combinations. I like the Harmony bridle that Nicker's Saddlery (Sensation maker) makes and the Freedom bridles from Moss Rock endurance. Those are really nice for starting the young ones - I can let them get used to carrying a bit, while still using the sidepull reins, so that we aren't likely to hurt a young horse's mouth. They also have a halter ring, if you want to lead them - I HATE leading a horse by the reins if there is a bit in his mouth. We do most of our ground driving using the sidepull rings, so it's awfully nice not to have to change head-gear if you change your mind about what you're going to do that session. Karen Thomas, NC
