Bridle path (horse)
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The bridle path is the part of the mane behind the ears of a horse where the bridle lays.
[edit] Grooming
The mane of the bridle path is usually clipped or shaved for competition in certain diciplines. This not only provides a better appearance, but allows the bridle or halter to lay flat on the head of the horse, and therefore be more comfortable.
It is important not to cut the bridle path too far, as it can take up to 6 months for the mane to grow back to an appropriate length. It is best to start clipping the bridle path working towards the ears, as clipping from the ears back may result in a longer bridle path than desired.
[edit] Bridle Path Length
The length of the bridle path often varies between the equestrian disciplines and breeds.
- The English-style disciplines, including dressage, show jumping, eventing, and hunt seats, prefer a short bridle path of 1-2 inches. This length is also appropriate for certain breeds, including Thoroughbreds and Warmbloods.
- Saddleseat-style and fine-harness & roadster horses are shown with a longer bridle path of 6-8 inches. It is appropriate for use on breeds associated with these disciplines, when they are shown in-hand, including American Saddlebreds, Tennessee Walking Horses, National Show Horses, and Morgans.
- The Western-style disciplines, including the western performance discipines such as reining and western pleasure, cut a 6-8" bridle path. Horses shown in halter classes, including Quarter Horses, Paint Horses, Appaloosas, Buckskins and other stock-type horses have the same cut.
- Arabians and Part-Arabs also often sport a long (6-8") bridle path, as it tends to show off their refined head, one of the signatures of the breed.
- Andalusians should never have a bridle path longer than 1 inch.
- Peruvian Pasos are sometimes prohibited to have a bridle path under certain show organizations.
- Icelandic horses should not have a bridle path clipped.
