Draw reins and running reins

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Draw reins are often confused with running reins. Both are pieces of riding equipment used for training, that cause the horse to bring its head inward.

• Draw reins run from the rider's hands, through the bit ring (outside to inside), over the poll, through the other bit ring, and back to the rider's hands. They do not attach to the girth.

• Running reins go from the rider's hand, through one bit ring (inside to outside), to the girth, to the other bit ring, and back to the rider's hands. They are very commonly (and mistakenly) referred to as draw reins.

In both cases, two pairs of reins should be carried by the rider (one running/draw rein and one snaffle rein). The rider holds these reins like she would a double bridle, usually with the snaffle rein below the fourth finger and the running or draw rein between the third and fourth fingers, although there are variations on this. The rider should ride predominantly on the snaffle rein.

[edit] Uses

Both pieces of equipment should only been used when the horse is performing the undesired task (poking the nose out, bucking, ect), and then use of the rein should discontinue as soon as the desired response is given.

Running reins are used by many trainers to teach the horse to give to rein pressure, and most horses respond by bringing the head in and lowering it. They may also provide additional control of heavy horses.

Draw reins have a gag bit-like action. They encourage the horse to raise his head, although they may cause slight pressure on the poll, and are therefore good for certain horses that buck and plunge with its head lowered, take off by lowering the head, those that pull or lean on the bit, or those that have learned to lower the head and stop to unseat the rider

[edit] Misuses and Dangers

Both piece of equipment are very often misused by uneducated riders or trainers that want quick fixes. This usually involves the rider pulling the horse's head in to achieve a "headset" rather than getting the animal correctly on the bit. There are many riders who use the equipment to force the horse into a position.

These pieces of equipment can have very detrimental effects if they are adjusted tightly, used strongly, or if they are used for long periods of time. Horses may become hard-mouthed and heavy, and they will begin to travel on the forehand if the rider can not keep sufficient impulsion. Additionally, many horses that are continuously or incorrectly ridden in draw or running reins may never learn to engage the hind quarters and lift their withers for self-carriage, and this habit may permanently damage their training.

That being said, competent riders who correctly and tactfully use the draw and running reins can have great success. These are often the riders who use the equipment the least, because they can achieve correct results through good riding instead of gadgets.