Headgear Guide - A Guide to Equine Performance Aids
Headgear in Horse Racing: A Guide to Equine Performance Aids
In the complex world of horse racing, success hinges on a myriad of factors, not least the horse's mental state and focus during a race. Beyond the basic bridle and bit, trainers and jockeys often employ various types of headgear to fine-tune a horse's behaviour, enhance concentration, reduce distractions, or simply encourage them to run more kindly. Far from being a mere accessory, each piece of headgear serves a specific purpose, and its application is a deliberate tactical decision aimed at maximising a horse's potential.
The use of headgear is always publicly declared before a race, allowing punters and analysts to consider its potential impact on a horse's performance. Understanding these aids is crucial for anyone looking to delve deeper into the nuances of form study.
The Philosophy Behind Headgear
The primary philosophy behind using headgear is to influence a horse's vision or sensory input in a way that encourages a desired racing behaviour.
Goals of Headgear
- Improve Focus: Direct a horse's attention forward.
- Reduce Distraction: Limit peripheral stimuli.
- Encourage Relaxation: Calm anxious or overly keen horses.
- Prevent Habits: Address issues like hanging or getting the tongue over the bit.
- Boost Performance: Improve efficiency and energy use.
Common Types of Headgear
Blinkers
- Description: Cups attached beside the eyes to block side vision.
- Purpose: Focus attention straight ahead and minimise distractions.
- Impact: Can significantly improve form but may cause over-keenness.
- Use: Common in both codes, including big races like the Grand National.
Visor
- Description: Like blinkers but with slits allowing partial side vision.
- Purpose: A softer aid for mild distraction issues.
- Impact: Less intense than blinkers; useful for sharpening up a horse.
- Use: Favoured for horses needing a subtle focus adjustment.
Cheekpieces
- Description: Sheepskin or soft material on bridle cheek straps.
- Purpose: Mild focus aid without full vision restriction.
- Impact: Helps horses settle and maintain straight running.
- Use: Popular across both Flat and National Hunt disciplines.
Tongue Tie
- Description: Strap securing the tongue under the jaw.
- Purpose: Prevents the tongue blocking the airway or going over the bit.
- Impact: Improves breathing and control.
- Use: Extremely widespread and used even in elite-level racing.
Nosebands (Behavioural Control)
- Flash: Limits mouth opening and tongue-over-bit.
- Drop: Sits low to stop jaw crossing or leaning.
- Grackle (Figure-Eight): Provides control for difficult horses.
- Purpose: Keeps the mouth closed to improve responsiveness.
- Impact: Enhances control and running manners.
Hood / Ear Plugs
- Description: Covers ears with optional plugs; may include eye covers.
- Purpose: Dampen noise and reduce nervous energy.
- Impact: Settles excitable horses and conserves energy.
- Use: Especially common at noisy meetings like Cheltenham or Royal Ascot.
Key Considerations for Headgear
Declaration
All headgear must be declared and appears on the racecard—essential for accurate form study.
First-Time Use
"Blinkers First Time" can indicate a potential leap in performance.
Removal
Equally significant—horses reliant on aids may struggle without them.
Individual Response
Not all horses respond positively; trainers must trial and adjust strategies.
Welfare
Headgear must be used humanely and checked by stewards for proper fit and comfort.
Headgear, therefore, is not merely about making a horse run faster; it's about helping a horse to run better – more efficiently, more focused, and more comfortably. By understanding these subtle yet impactful pieces of equipment, enthusiasts gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate preparation and strategic decisions that go into every horse race.
Last updated: 20th July 2025