Why fix something if it ain't broke? There is such a thing as taking too many extra precautions and causing problems that didn't exist before!


7 years ago via Forums | Front Porch Forum

Because one never knows when something will 'break' with an animal. Most of these rides are with children, If a horsefly bites her butt and she kicks out, there goes the front of the Meadowbrook and possibly ejecting a child (or me).


7 years ago via Forums | Front Porch Forum

Kicking straps are usually used with the crupper fork, because generally, the further back the kicking strap is attached, the more effective it is.

A common style of kicking strap has two slots at top center, through which the crupper fork straps slide. The kicking strap drops down between the horse and the shaft on each side. Then it takes a wrap or two around the shaft. The end of the strap goes up and buckles into itself.

It's best if the kicking strap passes through a "footman loop" that is screwed into the side of the shaft. Otherwise, it has a tendency to migrate out of place.

The strap should be loose enough so you can push the horse's bum all the way over to the shaft on each side. You do not want it so tight that it tugs on the crupper when the horse is in motion.

You might be able to obtain a kicking strap arrangement that snaps into the center ring of a breeching spider, but the further forward, generally the less effective. If you wish to incorporate this safety device, you will probably want to use the crupper as well.


7 years ago via Forums | Front Porch Forum

One way I used to attach a kicking strap to a spider ring without the crupper used two straps and four Conway buckles. Attach the straps to the spider ring with one Conway per strap. Slide a second Conway onto each strap, but do not fasten it. Run the ends of the straps through the slots in the kicking strap. Get the kicking strap in the position you want it (close to the dock of the tail), fold the straps over the top of the kicking strap, then insert the strap ends into the Conways. You will have to punch holes in the strap as needed for the Conway posts. This works great if you want to eliminate the crupper. Somewhere I have a photo of this. If I can find it I will post.


7 years ago via Forums | Front Porch Forum