The halter is an everyday piece of equipment: for grooming, care, paddock turnout, or travel. A poorly fitted halter can cause rubbing, unnecessary pressure, or a risk of injury. A good fit is therefore essential.

• The noseband: the key reference point

The noseband should be positioned about two fingers' width below the cheekbone.
- Too high: it can compress the bones and cause discomfort.
- Too low: it risks hindering breathing or slipping.
Once adjusted, you should be able to fit two fingers between the noseband and the horse's nose.

• The headpiece: comfort behind the ears

The headpiece should rest just behind the ears, without pressing on their base or creating tension. It should neither pull forward nor slide backward.
A proper adjustment avoids pressure on the poll, a very sensitive area.

• The cheek pieces: balance and stability

The cheek pieces must be symmetrical and allow the halter to remain well-centered on the head. A halter that rotates is often a sign of poor adjustment or an unsuitable size.

• The throatlatch: security without restriction

The throatlatch must be loose enough not to hinder the throat or breathing.
You should be able to fit a closed fist between the throatlatch and the horse's jaw.

• Overall check

Once the halter is on:
- it should neither be too tight nor hang loosely,
- it should not create any pressure points,
- the horse should be able to chew, breathe, and move its head freely.

The halter is an essential piece of everyday equipment. Each type of halter has a specific function: the right choice depends on the intended use, the horse's temperament, and the level of control desired.

• Flat halter (nylon or fabric):
This is the most common type of halter.
- Comfortable, lightweight, and easy to maintain
- Ideal for grooming, daily care, and moving around
Suitable for most horses for standard use.

• Leather halter

More elegant and often more durable.
- Provides good support
- Develops a patina over time
- Often used for transport or shows
Requires regular maintenance and should be avoided for turnout.

• Rope halter (or 'ethological' halter)

Designed for precise groundwork.
- Finer and more direct action
- Knots positioned on pressure points
To be used by trained individuals. This is not a halter for tying or turnout.

• Safety halter

Equipped with a breakaway part (leather or special fastener).
- Breaks under strong tension
- Reduces the risk of injury
Recommended for horses tied alone or in the paddock.

• Padded halter

Features padded areas on the poll strap and noseband.
- Gentler for sensitive horses
- Reduces rubbing
Ideal for prolonged wear or delicate skin.