Clean Lines and Premium Leather for the Finished Performance Horse

When you're working a finished horse in the show pen or on the ranch, your tack needs to get out of the way and let your horse shine. The Martin Saddlery Rawhide Laced Slip Ear Headstall delivers that minimalist profile without sacrificing an ounce of quality. Crafted from Hermann Oak harness leather—the gold standard in western tack—it arrives with a broken-in feel that only gets better with age and sweat.

Hand-laced rawhide accents on the slip-ear and cheekpieces give this headstall that traditional cowboy aesthetic, while stainless steel cart buckles on both sides make bit changes fast and adjustment precise. Built for reiners, cutters, and working cowhorse riders who want their bridle to stay put and stay quiet, this is the kind of tack that earns its place in your trailer year after year.

Why Riders Choose This Headstall

• Hermann Oak harness leather — Supple from the first ride, built to withstand sweat and heavy use without cracking or stiffening.
• Hand-laced rawhide detailing — Traditional accents that add visual appeal and signal quality craftsmanship in the show ring.
• Stainless steel cart buckles on both sides — Rust-proof hardware that allows for quick, even bit height adjustment and perfect centering.
• Slip-ear design for a clean profile — No throatlatch or excess straps—ideal for finished horses that don't need extra restraint.
• Versatile sizing — Fits average horses 14.2 to 16 hands with a poll-to-bit range of 36" to 43" and multiple adjustment holes.
• From our barn to yours — Martin Saddlery quality backed by our 365-day guarantee and 2-day shipping from American warehouses.

Best For

Reining, cutting, and ranch riders looking for a minimal-fuss headstall that stays put on a broke horse and delivers a professional, traditional look.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will this headstall fit my 15.2-hand Quarter Horse?

Yes, this Martin Saddlery headstall is sized for the average horse, typically 14.2 to 16 hands. The dual-side adjustments give you plenty of range to dial in the perfect bit height, and the poll-to-bit measurement spans 36" to 43" to accommodate most stock-type horses.

Q: Is a slip-ear headstall safe for a green horse still in training?

We recommend slip-ear designs for finished, steady horses. Because there's no throatlatch to secure the bridle, a horse that rubs its head or shakes during work could potentially dislodge it. For young or unpredictable horses, a browband or one-ear style with a throatlatch is a safer choice.

Q: How do I care for Hermann Oak leather to keep it supple?

Wipe down with a damp cloth after each ride to remove sweat and dirt, then condition every few weeks with a quality leather conditioner. Hermann Oak leather is naturally supple, so it doesn't require heavy oiling—just consistent care to prevent drying and cracking over time.