Teach Softness Without the Brace — Advanced Training Martingale System

The Martin Saddlery Phil Haugen Martingale with Split Reins solves a common training frustration: horses that get heavy in the bridle or brace against traditional leather martingales. Developed with renowned horseman Phil Haugen, this lightweight rope-based system gives you instant communication through the bit — clear pressure on the bars and corners of the mouth, followed by immediate release the second your horse yields. It's built for riders transitioning horses from foundation work to finished performance, helping them find true collection without building resistance.

Unlike conventional martingales, this setup uses a tightly braided cord that glides fast through the bit rings, eliminating the drag and delay that can dull your horse's responsiveness. The integrated split reins feature three strategic adjustment points, letting you dial in the exact level of leverage and vertical flexion your horse needs at each stage of training. Whether you're tuning a barrel horse's rate or refining headset on a rope horse, this system rewards the right answer instantly — no guesswork, no heavy-handedness.

Why Riders Choose the Phil Haugen Martingale

• Instant release rewards softness — Engineered to apply clear pressure and release the moment your horse yields, preventing brace and heaviness in the bridle.
• Three adjustment points for custom leverage — Multiple rings on the split reins let you fine-tune vertical flexion and control as your horse progresses through training stages.
• Fast-gliding braided rope construction — Lightweight cord moves smoothly through bit rings for precise, lightning-fast communication compared to traditional leather.
• Complete integrated system — Premium leather split reins are specifically designed to work with the martingale's ring placement — everything calibrated to function as one tool.
• Versatile performance training — Ideal for barrel racing, roping, ranch work, and any discipline where responsive headset and collection matter.
• Martin Saddlery craftsmanship — Built with the durability and precision trainers trust, backed by decades of professional-grade tack design.

Best For

Trainers and competitive riders looking for a martingale that teaches softness and immediate response without creating resistance or brace in horses moving from foundation to finished work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use my own split reins with this martingale?

No — the Martin Saddlery Phil Haugen Martingale functions as a complete system. The martingale's effectiveness depends on the specific ring placement on the included split reins to deliver proper leverage and instant release. Using different reins will compromise the training benefit.

Q: Is this martingale appropriate for a horse just starting under saddle?

This system is designed for horses transitioning from basic foundation work to more advanced performance — typically horses that already understand direct rein cues and are learning collection and vertical flexion. It's not recommended for green-broke horses still learning steering and stop fundamentals.

Q: What size horse does this martingale fit?

The Martin Saddlery Phil Haugen Martingale is designed to fit most standard horses (approximately 14.2 to 16 hands). The adjustability comes primarily from the three rein adjustment points, which control leverage rather than physical fit around the horse.