Consumer Question

I am currently looking to buy my horse a breastplate; one with elastic so that she can have freedom of movement over large fences. Here's the thing: I am on a budget (cannot spend more than $160.00) and I am leaning towards a 5-point breastplate or a regular elastic breastplate. What do you ridders out there prefer? As far as brands go, I've been told that Kieffer is a good brand, but I would have to wait 4-6 weeks to get it shipped to me. I am also interested in the HDR (Henri de Rivel) Pro 5-point breastplate and the HDR pro heart breastplate. Is HDR generally good quality, as in I will be able to use for a long time? Is Ovation generally a good brand as well? Or should I go for something more better in quality? Let me know your thoughts and preferances!! Thanks so much!! :))

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Comment by Apple Saddlery on December 16, 2010 at 5:06pm: Haha, nope! I wasn't too clear about that before, but you can use it in the jumper ring.

Comment by Johanna Oberhauser on December 16, 2010 at 2:34pm: Thanks so much!! Yes, I'm can believe that elastic will wear out quicker than leather; I just want to get something comfortable for my horse, yet also something that will really let her move her shoulders and not press on the windpipe. Also, I ride jumpers, not eventers: does that make a difference? I don't think it does...just want to make sure haha :)

Comment by Barnmice Admin on December 16, 2010 at 10:31am: Hi Johanna, I have to chime in here to say that if you call Apple and speak to Hilary (or anyone), she is amazing and can give you lots more info! :)

Comment by Apple Saddlery on December 16, 2010 at 10:02am: Hi Johanna,

Ignore the fact that this post is from a tack store, I'm not going to try to sell you anything :) We only carry one 5 point breastplate and it's not one of the ones you mentioned above, so I'm not going to comment directly on them, but hopefully I have something helpful to offer you.

There are alot of traditionalists and non-believers who don't think the 5 point breastplate does anything, but I think the design is fantastic. If I were in your place I would take the 5 point without a doubt, and not just because they're "trendy" right now!

You're wondering what quality level to hit on this one... I think the $150 range is a good one to be in. You can spend less, but you're going to compromise on stitching, workmanship and general quality. You can spend alot more, but the biggest upgrade you can get is nicer leather. Middle of the road is an excellent place to be on a product like this because no matter what it is simply not going to last as long as a high quality bridle. When you have a breastplate that has elastic, the elastic is directly on your sweaty horse's shoulders and it will break down. Even in the $150 price range, the leather will almost definitely outlive the elastic.

If you are going to pay more for something, pay more for an excellent fit. You're pretty safe because most of these breastplates have lots of room for adjustment, but make sure you don't get stuck with one that doesn't. This is a product that has to fit properly to work properly! This is another reason to stay away from the very bottom of the range products... "cheaper" leather is more likely to stretch over time and that will change the fit and function of your breastplate.