Our Racing Tack Range
Racing tack covers the specialised equipment used in thoroughbred racing, trackwork and trials. It differs from everyday riding tack in a few important ways: it's lighter, built for strength and safety at speed, and often designed for quick fitting and removal in a busy stable environment. Bits used in racing tend to focus on steering and control of horses that are fit, fresh and travelling fast, while racing bridles and reins prioritise lightweight durability. Whether you're a trainer, strapper, trackwork rider or owner, having reliable racing gear is essential to safe, effective work on the track.
Racing Bits
Racing bits are designed to give riders control over fit, strong horses during fast work and racing. The most common is the ring bit (also called a Norton bit), which uses an additional ring around the lower jaw to provide extra control on horses that lug, hang or pull. Lugging bits are shaped to counteract a horse that drifts or leans to one side, helping to keep them running straight. The Chifney (or anti-rear bit) is a specialist control bit used for leading and handling colts and stallions on the ground rather than during riding. Choosing the right racing bit depends on the individual horse's way of going and any control issues they present.
- Ring bit / Norton bit - adds an extra ring for control on horses that lug or pull hard
- Lugging bit - shaped to keep a horse running straight when they drift or hang
- Chifney - an anti-rear bit used for leading and handling colts and stallions safely on the ground
- Dee and snaffle racing bits - lighter options for horses that don't need strong control
Racing Bridles and Reins
Racing bridles are lightweight and strong, commonly made from nylon or leather for durability under daily trackwork. Nylon racing bridles are popular for their strength, low maintenance and affordability, while leather is preferred by some stables for its traditional look and feel. Racing reins are often made from rubber or have rubber grips to maintain control with sweaty or wet hands during fast work. Harness racing uses its own style of bridle designed for the sport's specific requirements. Quality bridles and reins are a safety essential, since gear failure at speed can have serious consequences.
Racing Girths and Surcingles
Racing girths and surcingles secure the lightweight racing or exercise saddle in place. Because race saddles are minimal, the girth and an over-girth (surcingle) work together to keep everything secure at speed. Elastic inserts allow the girth to move with the horse's breathing during hard work, while strong, well-stitched construction ensures reliability. A secure girth is critical for both performance and rider safety on the track.
Racing Hoods and Blinkers
Racing hoods carry gear like blinkers, winkers and ear coverings that help a horse focus and stay calm. Blinkers restrict a horse's rear and side vision to keep them concentrating on the race ahead, while ear hoods or noseband attachments can help anxious horses settle in the noise and bustle of a race meeting. Different colours and patterns also help identify horses from a stable. Gear like blinkers must be declared and approved under racing rules, so check your local racing authority's requirements before race day.
On the Bridle and Off the Bridle: Racing Terms
If you follow racing, you'll hear commentators talk about a horse being "on the bridle" or "off the bridle." A horse running on the bridle is travelling easily and strongly, taking a hold of the bit with the jockey having plenty of horse underneath them. A horse that has come off the bridle is being asked for effort, no longer pulling against the bit and instead needing urging from the jockey to maintain its run. These terms describe how much a horse is travelling within itself during a race, and "on the bridle" is generally a sign of a horse going well.
Common Questions About Racing Tack
Read our customer Q&As.
What is a Norton bit used for in racing?
A Norton bit, also known as a ring bit, has an additional ring that sits around the horse's lower jaw to provide extra control. It's used on horses that lug, hang or pull hard during fast work and racing, where a standard bit doesn't give the rider enough control. The extra ring applies pressure that helps keep a strong horse rateable and running straight.
What is a Chifney bit?
A Chifney is an anti-rear bit used for leading and handling horses on the ground, particularly colts and stallions that can be difficult to control. It's not used for riding. The Chifney provides extra control when leading a fresh or fractious horse, helping to prevent rearing and keeping handlers safe. It should be used carefully as it can be severe if mishandled.
What does "on the bridle" mean in horse racing?
A horse running "on the bridle" is travelling comfortably and strongly within itself, taking a hold of the bit without the jockey having to push or urge it along. It indicates the horse is going well and has more to give. The opposite, "off the bridle," means the horse is being asked for effort and is no longer pulling against the bit, requiring the jockey to ride it along.
What is the difference between a racing bridle and a normal bridle?
Racing bridles are lighter and built for strength and safety at speed, often made from nylon for durability and easy maintenance. They're designed for the demands of daily trackwork and racing, with quick-fitting features suited to a busy stable. Standard riding bridles are usually leather and designed for comfort, appearance and everyday riding rather than the specific demands of the track.
Are blinkers and racing hoods regulated?
Yes. In most racing jurisdictions, gear changes including the addition or removal of blinkers, winkers and hoods must be declared to the racing authority before a horse races. This is because these items can noticeably affect a horse's performance. Check the specific rules of your local racing body, as gear must typically be approved and declared within set timeframes before race day.
