As a rider, you may have already established equipment preferences. Have you considered, however, the pros and cons of choosing a certain halter? Deciding a halter type is an issue of safety, comfort, cost, and more.
One advantage of a rope halter is that there is no metal. Since there is no buckle, you do not have to worry about rusting, or the buckle cutting your horse when he pulls back.
The rope is also a good choice for young horse because the halter is comfortable when they are behaving. When your horse acts up, however, a rope halter bothers more, as leather and nylon halters spread pressure over a wider area.
The rope halter is the cheapest choice, but try not to buy one made of cotton, as they are apt to shrink.
A leather halter is considered of higher quality and more attractive. They will also last longer. They are classier and come in different colors. With leather halters, you have a variety of looks to choose from.
Leather halters are easiest to clean also. Buy a halter with double-stitched seems, not screwed or tacked together; these are higher quality.
An important advantage is that these halters have one leather piece that will break in a major struggle. These breakaway versions allow horse to escape if they are trapped, and therefore, are safer for your horse. Breakaway leather halters also exist, but are less common, because replacement of a leather halter is expensive.
