Riding a horse in a driving bridle?

Question

A few weeks ago, I saw a draft horse being ridden on the trail in a Western saddle and a driving bridle, with blinders. At the time I thought, "What the HECK...? That looks like a disaster waiting to happen." I am assuming, as the barn I saw this at is horrendous, that the horse was being ridden in that bridle simply because it fit the horse, not because the rider felt the horse needed blinders when on trail rides.

What are your thoughts on riding a horse in a driving bridle? Is that a really bad idea, or is it no different than driving a horse in a driving bridle?

Answer 1

When I worked down on this farm they had a pair of Belgians that still used for plowing the fields you can use any bridle, just need extra long reins.  :)  They didn't like the blinders due to the animal can't see everything around, and in case of a emergency they bolted they would be better off being able to see, and might not spook at something they heard and didn't or couldn't see.  I never understood the "NEED" for blinders, and haven't seen many use them.  Thanks goodness.  The diary farm around from me also have Belgians they use for rides, and to bring in a hay wagon, NO blinders, Mr. Bell also doesn't think they are needed and can be a danger.

To answer your question it's so they don't get distracted from the job ahead, weather it's pulling, hauling, or plowing, at least that's what I've been told.