It’s been said thousands of times: ‘Reins are an extension of your hands.’ The way you communicate through your hands to your horse can have a significant impact on their understanding, willingness, and overall confidence in your leadership abilities. Consistent, quiet, and effective hand communication will grow a horse’s confidence and understanding, ultimately leading to success. Having the right reins in your hands can make a world of difference.
For over two decades, Martin Saddlery has been offering a wide range of high-quality and reliable barrel reins, understanding that every barrel racer has their own preference. With a variety of materials, sizes, and textures available, their goal is to help you find the perfect reins that you can hold confidently as you head toward the first barrel.
Barrel Rein Materials
They craft, specialize, and have perfected a wide range of barrel reins, all made from different materials.
Here are some basic things to know about each material:
- Leather (All leather products are made with the highest quality Hermann Oak Leather)
- Harness: Firmer, stouter, and originally made for heavier-duty tasks. Due to its tanning process, has a more robust body and is known for its durability and weather-resistant nature.
- Latigo: Softer and more flexible. Due to its tanning process, has a water-resistant nature and was originally crafted for use in straps, belts, and more.
- BioThane
- Provides a non-slip surface for your hands—No need to worry about losing your place in the middle of a turn.
- Mohair Blend
- Offer a lightweight, soft feel with plenty of movement and are exceptionally softer, with a slight “give”.
- Nylon
- Economically friendly choice, these lightweight reins have been used in the barrel pen for decades because of their strength and reliability.
Martin Saddlery Barrel Rein Options
Leather
- Latigo Leather Rein: Features a clean look with a smooth feel. Martin Saddlery kept it simple with the design of these reins, removing the added weight of any extra features. Available in a ¾”.
The leather reins listed below allow you to pinpoint your perfect shoulder-width hand placement going into a barrel —
- Latigo Laced Barrel Rein: Martin Saddlery’s number one seller since 2004, these durable harness leather reins are laced with latigo leather for the perfect feel. Designed with weight, size, feel, longevity, and appearance in mind. Available in a ¾” and 5/8” and in black, chocolate or turquoise latigo lacing.
- Check out this video from Sherry Cervi and Dena Kirkpatrick where they talk about their favorite types of reins.
- Blood Twist Barrel Rein: Made with top-quality latigo leather complete with six blood twists. The twists have a similar purpose as a knot would have without the added bulk. Available in a 5/8”.
- Braided Harness Barrel Rein: The 3-plait barrel rein is lightweight and built to last. Made with Hermann Oak harness leather. If you are a rider with a smaller hand but enjoy the feel of a braided rein, these were made for you. Complete with hardware for easy length adjustments, these reins are user-friendly and have that broke-in feel from the first moment you grab them. Available in a 5/8”.
- Braided Latigo Barrel Rein: Performance and longevity were in mind when these reins were designed. Features a 5-plait latigo leather braid and braided knots. Though these reins are a touch thicker than some of the others, they don’t carry any extra weight. Equipped with hardware for easy length adjustments. Available in a 7/8”.
Biothane
- BioThane Rein: Perfect for the barrel racer who struggles with keeping their grip on the reins. Ensures a non-slip surface so you don’t have to worry about losing your place in the middle of a turn. Latigo leather ends are complete with hardware for easy length adjustments and bit changes. Available in a ¾”.
Mohair Blend
- Blended Mohair Rein: Features a 5-strand braid with latigo leather knots. Offer a lightweight feel with plenty of movement. Leather knots allow the barrel racer to reach down and grab the rein, knowing their hand placement will be the same every single run. Equipped with hardware for easy length adjustments and snaps to switch to another bit. Available in 5/8” and in black or white.
Nylon
- Braided Nylon Barrel Rein with Knots: Strategically placed knots ensure the rider can reach down and grab in the same spot every time. Easily adjusts to your length preference and comes equipped with double snaps for your convenience. Available in a 1” and in black, brown, grey-white, purple-grey, maroon-tan, mint, lime-purple, and pink.
Where to Find It
To locate a dealer near you, visit: Martin Saddlery Dealers.
