Trust Hackamore Combi Short Eliptical
$499.95
Hackamores
Hackamores control a horse through pressure on the nose, chin groove and poll rather than the mouth. They suit horses with mouth injuries, dental issues or a dislike of bits, and are popular for jumping and trail riding. This range covers bitless English and S hackamores, plus combination bits that pair a mouthpiece with hackamore action.
They are part of our wider Bits collection.
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Bitless vs Combination
A plain hackamore has no mouthpiece. A combination bit adds a snaffle style mouthpiece, so pressure is shared between the mouth and the nose.
- English hackamores have shanks, a padded noseband and a curb chain.
- S and flower hackamores are shaped cheeks that change how leverage builds.
- Combination bits suit horses moving from a bit to a hackamore.
Short or Long Shanks
Longer shanks give more leverage and stronger nose pressure. Short shanks are milder and suit horses new to a hackamore. Start with the mildest setup and adjust with your coach.
Fitting a Hackamore
The noseband should sit on the bony part of the nose, well above the soft cartilage, so it does not affect breathing. The curb chain should lie flat in the chin groove.
Noseband covers and protectors are in bit accessories. Bridles to hang a hackamore from are in horse bridles.
Other Options
If your horse needs a bit, compare a snaffle bit, gag bit or pelham. Western bitless setups are with stock and western tack.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is a hackamore kinder than a bit?
Not automatically. A hackamore moves pressure from the mouth to the nose, chin and poll, and long shanks can give strong leverage. It can suit horses with mouth problems or those that resist a bit, but it still needs light hands and a good fit. Many riders start with short shanks.
Can you jump in a hackamore?
Yes, hackamores are common in show jumping and are allowed in many jumping competitions. They are not permitted in dressage tests under most rules. Check the current rules for your discipline and level before competing, as some events limit shank length or noseband type.
What is a combination hackamore bit?
A combination bit pairs a mouthpiece, often a snaffle or mullen, with hackamore cheeks and a noseband. Pressure is shared between the mouth and the nose, which can help horses that lean on a snaffle or riders moving their horse towards a full hackamore.
