2025 MFTHBA Rulebook

84 j) Roping bits with both reins connected to a single rein at the center or cross bar are prohibited. k) Reins must be attached to each shank. 10. Optional Equipment for Western Classes: a) Protective boots, leg wraps and bandages are allowed in Reining, timed (speed) events, Western Riding and Versatility Ranch Horse classes except Ranch Horse Conformation. b) Tie-downs are permitted for timed (speed) events and Ranch Roping only. c) Running martingales are permitted for timed (speed) events and Ranch Roping only. d) Spurs: not to be used forward of the cinch. (Spurring of the horse excessively is prohibited) e) Padded or covered curb chains (the curb chain must be at least ½” in width and lie flat against the jaw of the horse). 11. Prohibited Equipment for Western Classes: a) Protective boots, leg wraps and bandages are prohibited in Western Pleasure, Western Horsemanship, Trail, Pleasure Driving and Ranch Conformation. b) Wire chin straps, regardless of how padded or covered c) Rounded, rolled, braided, rawhide or any chin strap narrower than one-half inch in width. d) Martingales and draw reins, except for timed (speed) events and Ranch Roping. e) Nosebands used with tie-downs, except for timed (speed) events and Roping; however, these cannot have any bare metal in contact with the horse’s head. f) Tapaderos are prohibited in all Versatility and Ranch Horse classes. g) In Timed (speed) events, western type tack and equipment must be used. Use of a hackamore (including mechanical hackamore or other type of bridle) is the optional choice of the exhibitor; however, the judge may prohibit the use of bits or equipment he may consider severe.