Built for Speed Work Without the Bulk

The Martin Saddlery Slip Ear Headstall delivers a streamlined, low-profile fit that serious barrel racers and reining riders have trusted for years. The single-ear design eliminates the bulk of a throatlatch and browband, reducing interference during hard stops and tight turns when every second counts. Hand-oiled natural roughout leather stays supple from day one and resists cracking through years of heavy use.

Hand-tooled rope borders and copper parachute dots give this headstall a polished arena look without sacrificing function. Traditional leather bit ties let you swap bits in seconds without tools—essential for trainers working multiple horses. Stainless steel hardware holds up to sweat, weather, and daily training wear.

Why Riders Choose This Headstall

• Secure fit during speed events — Slip-ear design stays put through barrel turns and sliding stops without a throatlatch catching or shifting.
• Fast bit changes — Leather knot-end bit ties let you swap mouthpieces between horses in seconds, no tools required.
• Broken-in feel from day one — Hand-oiled natural roughout leather is supple right out of the package, with no stiff break-in period.
• Weather-resistant hardware — Stainless steel buckles resist corrosion from sweat and humidity, maintaining smooth adjustability over time.
• Adjustable fit for most Western horses — Bit-to-bit range of 29¾" to 39½" accommodates Quarter Horses and similar breeds with room for fine-tuning.
• Polished arena appearance — Hand-tooled rope border and copper parachute dots elevate your look from training sessions to weekend competitions.

Best For

Barrel racers, reining riders, and trainers looking for a no-bulk headstall that stays secure during high-speed maneuvers and allows quick bit swaps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will this headstall fit a standard Quarter Horse?

Yes, this headstall is sized for the average Western horse with a bit-to-bit range of 29¾" to 39½". It fits most Quarter Horses and similar breeds with enough adjustment room for a custom fit. The slip-ear design accommodates a variety of head shapes without requiring a throatlatch.

Q: Is the slip-ear design secure enough for barrel racing?

Absolutely. The single-ear style is a go-to for barrel racers because it eliminates the weight and bulk of a browband and throatlatch, staying securely in place during hard stops and tight turns. Many speed event riders prefer this design specifically because it won't shift or catch during fast work.

Q: How quickly can I change bits with the leather bit ties?

The traditional leather knot-end bit ties allow you to swap bits in under a minute without any tools. This makes the Martin Saddlery headstall especially popular with trainers who ride multiple horses back-to-back and need to switch mouthpieces quickly between sessions.