Nowadays people commonly use draw reins. But the old school used to play with double reins. What has changed? How can this affect your game?
In the last decade, we have seen many polo players switching to draw reins, now becoming the one they most commonly use. Draw reins have been around since the 17 th century, invented by William Cavendish, the Duke of Newcastle. The draw reins first started as a tool to be able to teach the horse a high level of dressage exercises, but later on they have been used for many other purposes. The main objective is to be able to have better control of the pony, being the reason why it has become really popular in the sport.
It is important to know how to use this tool; If you leave the draw reins too loose the horse won’t respond to them, but if you grab them too tight you restrict the horse’s movements making it harder for them to run and turn faster. Are they really a magic tool that can make you feel safe and confident during the game?
Although they can be helpful for sharp horses or horses that don’t stop properly, they are not recommended for all ponies. Some horses need more freedom and flexibility to be able to have a better performance in the game. It is difficult sometimes for the rider to be aware of the length of the draw reins and many times this can be a problem. The double reins are a similar tool to a draw rein but softer, they offer support from two points of the bit, having better control of the horse. The main difference is that sensible horses have low tolerance when they feel the pulling of the draw reins, making them overbend, run slower (as they feel restricted) or even rear up. With double reins, it’s harder to mess it up as the pressure is softer and even on the four reins. Your pony will always feel comfortable in the game, making it easier for you to get ahead of your opponents!
It is also important to have good quality products. In the market, they are different kinds of quality of draw reins that they don’t all meet the polo standards for example being too long, hard and thick leather. This will make the player feel uncomfortable and sore. Also, they might slip off your hands making it harder to have control of your pony during the game. Krono Polo offers draw rains and double reins with the perfect length and the best Argentinian quality leather. Also, it would help you to play more confidently as you know they won't break. Pairing a set of Krono rains with a pair of Krono Polo Gloves will make the player achieve the ultimate grip.
In conclusion, draw reins and double rains are amazing tools. However, it is important to understand which one suits your riding style and your pony best. For example; If you are a novice rider with an amazing chill pony, we recommend the double reins as your horse will have a better performance. On the other hand, if you are an advanced rider with a sharp horse, you will probably be better off using draw reins, as you will have more control of your pony. It is crucial to have the right and best quality equipment.
You can find this on our website www.kronopolo.com and use the code POLO 23 for 10% off on all horse tack equipment!