What is a Breast Collar?
A breast collar, also known as a breastplate, is a piece of horse tack designed to help keep the saddle securely in place. It attaches to the front of the saddle and wraps around the horse’s chest, preventing the saddle from slipping backward during movement. In addition to its functional role, it also adds a distinctive Western flair to the horse’s appearance. Whether you're hitting the trails or preparing for a show, understanding how to use and care for a cowhide breast collar is essential for both performance and longevity.
Breast collars come in various materials and designs. While most are made from leather, we're focusing on the natural hair on cowhide breast collar—a design that combines durability with classic Western aesthetics. Cowhide breast collars are popular for their rugged texture, striking appearance, and ability to withstand tough riding conditions.
How to Use a Cowhide Breast Collar?
1. Attach to the Saddle
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Connect the two side straps to the D-rings on the front of your saddle.
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Use the center strap (with a snap or buckle) to secure the collar to the girth or cinch ring between the horse’s legs.
2. Adjust for Proper Fit
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The collar should sit comfortably across the horse’s chest, just above the point of the shoulders.
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Adjust straps so it is snug but not tight—allow room for movement and breathing.
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Make sure the center strap does not pull the collar too low or high on the chest.
3. Check Before Riding
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Always double-check that all straps are secure.
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Look for signs of pinching or rubbing, especially on longer rides.
How to choose the best Cowhide?
If you're looking for the best cowhide breast collar on the market, there are a few key criteria to consider:
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Choose the perfect fit
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Select a beautiful design
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Examine the quality of the cowhide
- Look for sturdy hardware and reliable adjustability
Let's discuss,
1. Choose the perfect fit:
When selecting a suitable cowhide breast collar for your horse, begin by evaluating your horse’s build and breed. Horses come in all shapes and sizes, and their chest dimensions can vary significantly. Accurate measurement of your horse’s chest is essential to ensure a good fit. Also, don’t overlook the influence of breed—some horses have distinctive conformation that may benefit from a particular style or cut of breast collar.
2. Select a beautiful design:
A cowhide breast collar isn’t just about function—it’s also a way to show your style and make your horse stand out. You can pick from many colors, designs, and decorations to find one you like. Whether you want a clean, classic look or something bold and stylish, there’s something out there to match both your taste and your horse’s appearance.
3. Examine the quality of the cowhide:
When choosing a cowhide breast collar, make sure to check the leather quality. Go for real cowhide that feels strong, tough, and well-made. Watch out for weak stitching, rough edges, or poor craftsmanship. Good-quality leather will last longer and keep your horse more comfortable. It should feel smooth but firm to the touch, with no cracks or soft spots. A well-crafted breast collar also looks better and holds up well in different weather conditions. Investing in quality now can save you money and trouble in the long run.
4. Look for sturdy hardware and reliable adjustability:
It’s also very important to pay close attention to the hardware and the adjustability features of the cowhide breast collar. Carefully inspect the buckles, conchos, studs, and snaps to make sure they are sturdy, well-made, and durable enough to withstand regular use. High-quality hardware will prevent the collar from breaking or coming loose during riding. Additionally, look for collars that offer adjustable straps or come in multiple size options. This flexibility is essential because it allows you to customize the fit to your horse’s specific measurements, ensuring comfort and security. It also makes it easier to adjust the collar over time if your horse’s body changes due to growth, training, or weight fluctuations. Choosing a breast collar with reliable hardware and good adjustability can make a big difference in both performance and comfort for your horse.
How to Care and Maintain a Cowhide Breast Collar?
1. Cleaning
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Regular dusting: Cowhide breast collars collect dust and dirt over time, just like any leather item. Using a soft brush or a dry cloth to gently wipe away dust helps keep the surface clean without damaging the leather or hair.
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Spot cleaning: If there’s a small stain or dirt spot, don’t dunk the whole collar in water. Instead, lightly dampen a cloth with water and a bit of mild soap (like saddle soap made for leather). Gently rub the stained area in a circular motion to lift the dirt. After cleaning, use a clean, damp cloth to remove soap residue, then let it air dry.
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Avoid harsh chemicals: Strong cleaning products like bleach or alcohol can strip the natural oils from the leather, dry out the hide, and ruin the texture and appearance. Stick to gentle soaps meant for leather.
2. Conditioning
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Leather conditioner: Leather dries out and can crack if not kept moisturized. Applying a leather conditioner every few months helps keep the leather parts soft and flexible. This makes the breast collar more comfortable for the horse and extends its life.
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Don’t overdo it: Using too much conditioner can leave the leather greasy or sticky, which attracts dirt and dust. So apply a thin, even layer and wipe off excess.
3. Storage
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Keep it dry and cool: Leather and cowhide don’t like damp or humid places because moisture can cause mold or mildew, damaging the collar. Also, sunlight can fade colors and dry out leather, so store the collar away from windows or direct sunlight.
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Proper storage: Hang the breast collar on a hook or lay it flat when not in use. This prevents it from getting bent or creased, which can damage the shape and leather fibers.
4. Additional Tips
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Avoid water exposure: If the collar gets wet, don’t put it near heat or a heater to dry it fast, as that can dry out and stiffen the leather. Instead, let it dry naturally at room temperature.
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Regular inspection: Check for loose stitches, cracked leather, or worn areas so you can fix problems before they get worse.
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Protective sprays: There are sprays made for cowhide and leather that create a protective barrier against dirt and moisture. Using these sprays occasionally can help keep the collar cleaner and protect it longer.
Summary: Taking care of your cowhide breast collar means cleaning it gently, conditioning the leather to keep it soft, storing it properly to avoid damage, and inspecting it regularly to catch issues early. This helps your collar last longer and look great!
