Breastplates Affect Jump Shape, New Research Finds
Horse & Hound|February 22, 2018

The locomotion of the horse over a fence while wearing a variety of breastplates was studied during the analysis

Eleanor Jones
Breastplates Affect Jump Shape, New Research Finds

JUMPING in conventional breastplates restricts horses’ movements, changes the landing angle and could put more strain on forelimbs, a study has found.

In its latest research on tack, and its effect on equine movement and performance, saddle manufacturer Fairfax has turned its attention to breastplates.

The study analysed jumping with and without breastplates of different designs over the same fence, using specialist cameras. “Regardless of breastplate design, this showed that the whole jump is adversely affected from the moment the horse is at the peak of take-off and its shoulder is in its most forward position,” a Fairfax spokesman said.

“It showed that breastplates have a significant negative effect on the jump. Attached to a saddle and girth, they make a restrictive ‘cage’ around the horse’s shoulder apparatus, which affects his movement over a fence.”

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