CAVESSON TYPES
- Alexandra V.Ng
- Apr 3, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Aug 2
A Guide for Equine Enthusiasts
Cavessons, essential tools in horse training, come in a variety of types, each with its unique features, benefits and drawbacks in some cases. Understanding the different types of cavessons can help choosing the most suitable option for your training needs. Here's a brief exploration of common cavesson types:
1. Nylon Cavessons are popular choices for their affordability, but it is good to keep in mind that they are not suitable for precise groundwork.
"Soft"nylon cavesson is an adjustable halter with three rings sewn to the noseband.
Pros: - The only benefit to this type of cavesson is its relative harmlessness when handled by inexperienced riders.
Cons: - This type of cavesson lacks structural stability and is prone to shifting or being pulled to the side. Its wide noseband tends to absorb the impulse of the aids, which reduces precision in communication.
It is often positioned higher on the nose, further limiting effective control.
Safety Consideration: - It lacks the necessary control, as the horse can easily overpower the handler, which is a common issue with all soft cavessons.
Nylon cavesson is an adjustable halter which has the three rings fixed to a steel nosepiece.
Pros: - Offers slightly improved stability and control compared to the soft nylon version, making it a modest upgrade for basic groundwork.
Cons: - Despite the steel insert, it still struggles to maintain proper stability on the horse’s nose. It is prone to shifting or being pulled to the side, compromising precision and security. The wide noseband absorbs much of the rein or lead impulse, reducing the effectiveness of the aids.
Additionally, the steel nosepiece is often heavier and bulkier than necessary, which usually results in a higher placement on the nasal bridge—leading to decreased control.
Safety Consideration: - Although it provides more structure than the soft version, it still lacks sufficient control. Horses can lean into it and potentially pull the handler away with it.
2. Leather Cavessons are more expensive due to their quality material, but it is good to keep in mind that they are not the most suitable for precise groundwork.
"Soft" leather cavesson is a modified bridle with three rings sewn to the noseband.
Pros: - It is relatively harmless when handled by inexperienced riders. It is a better fit for the horse and more durable than the nylon version.
Cons: - Lacks sufficient stability over the horse’s nose, making it prone to shifting or being pulled to the side.
The wide, padded noseband absorbs the impulse of the aids, reducing precision and effectiveness.Often positioned too high on the nose, which limits control and reduces influence on the horse’s movement.
Safety Consideration: - Does not offer adequate control—horses can easily lean into it and pulling the handler away with it.
Regular Leather cavesson is a modified halter which has the three rings fixed to a steel nosepiece.
Pros: - Generally safe for use by inexperienced riders due to its design. Offers a better fit and greater durability compared to nylon cavessons.
Cons: - Lacks sufficient stability over the horse’s nose, making it prone to shifting or being pulled to the side.
The wide, padded noseband absorbs the impulse of the aids, reducing precision and effectiveness.
Often positioned too high on the nose, which limits control and reduces influence on the horse’s movement.
Safety Consideration: - Does not offer adequate control—horses can easily lean into it and overpower the handler.
3. Iberian / Classical Leather Cavessons are more expensive due to their quality material. The design of the steal nosepiece ensures the precision of effective training in the hands of experienced handlers.
The Iberian cavesson is a modified halter or bridle with one to three rings attached to a fixed steel nosepiece. ( The thickness, surface texture, and weight of the nosepiece can vary depending on the manufacturer.)
Pros: - Provides excellent stability, allowing for precise contact and clear transmission of aids.
The narrower nosepiece ensures a correct, anatomical fit on the horse’s nose. Offers perfect control, making it ideal for advanced groundwork and in-hand work.
Cons: - The cheek straps are often positioned close to the horse’s eyes, which may require adjustment for optimal fit. Inexperienced handlers may unintentionally cause discomfort or harm if used without proper technique.
Safety Consideration: - Delivers the highest level of control, but should be used with skill and care to avoid misuse.
4. Chain / Classical Leather Cavessons are more expensive due to their quality material. The design of the steal nosepiece ensures the precision of effective training in the hands of experienced handlers.
Chain Cavesson is a modified halter or bridle which has the two to three rings fixed to a steel nosepiece.
Pros: - Offers excellent stability of contact and precise control, transmitting the impulse of the aids effectively.
The chain design provides slightly more flexibility and “give” than cast steel nosepieces, making it a suitable option for horses with sensitive noses.
Cons: - Cheek straps are often positioned too close to the horse’s eyes, requiring careful adjustment for a secure and comfortable fit.
When used by inexperienced handlers, there is a risk of discomfort or harm if used without proper technique.
Safety Consideration: - Delivers firm control over the horse but should be used responsibly and with skill to ensure safety and comfort.
5. EquiBalance Leather Cavessons are more expensive due to their quality material and anatomical fit. The design of the steal nosepiece ensures the precision of effective training in the hands of experienced handlers.
The EquiBalance Cavesson is a modified anatomical bridle featuring a single ring attached to a fixed steel nosepiece.
Pros: - Provides excellent stability of contact and precise control, transmitting the impulse of the aids effectively.
Its lightweight and ergonomic design enhances comfort, making it ideal for horses with sensitive noses.
Compared to Iberian and chain cavessons, it is less powerful, reducing the risk of discomfort or harm—especially in the hands of less experienced handlers.
Cons: - In some cases, the cheek straps may sit too close to the horse’s eyes, requiring slight adjustment for an optimal fit.
Safety Consideration: - Offers reliable control while prioritizing comfort and safety—suitable for riders and handlers across experience levels.
6. EquiBalance Leather Cavesson Nosebands are more expensive due to their quality material and anatomical fit. The design of the steal nosepiece ensures the precision of effective training in the hands of experienced handlers.
The EquiBalance Cavesson Noseband is a modified anatomical noseband featuring a single ring attached to a fixed steel nosepiece.
Pros: - Delivers excellent stability of contact and precise control, effectively transmitting the impulse of the aids.
Its lightweight and ergonomic design provides superior comfort, making it especially suitable for horses with sensitive noses.
Compared to Iberian and chain cavessons, it is less powerful, offering a gentler training experience.
Safe for use by inexperienced handlers, with minimal risk of causing discomfort or harm to the horse.
Cons: -
Safety Consideration: Offers reliable control without compromise.