Bridle path (horse)
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The bridle path is a shaved or clipped section of the mane, beginning behind the ears of a horse at the poll, delineating the area where the crownpiece of the bridle lays.
[edit] Grooming
A bridle path is usually clipped or shaved in the mane for competition in certain disciplines, and may be done on ordinary riding horses as well. Doing so 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 a length that allows it to lay over neatly, and as long as a year to reach it fullest possible natural length. It is best to start clipping the bridle path working from the desired end of the bridle path 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 Hunter-type English riding disciplines, including dressage, show jumping, eventing, and hunt seat equitation, prefer a short bridle path of 1-2 inches. This length is also appropriate for certain breeds, including Thoroughbreds and Warmbloods.
- Saddle seat and fine-harness horses are shown with a longer bridle path of approximately 8 inches. It is appropriate for use on breeds associated with these disciplines, when they are shown in-hand and even under saddle in other types of tack. Breeds clipped to a "Saddle type" style include American Saddlebreds, Tennessee Walking Horses, National Show Horses, Arabians, and Morgans.
- The Western riding disciplines, including the western performance discipines such as reining and western pleasure, cut a 6-8" bridle path. Stock type breeds, including Quarter Horses, American Paint Horses, and Appaloosas, use this style of cut.
- Andalusians should generally 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.
