Snaffle holders are devices for the tidy storage of snaffles, halters, auxiliary reins, ropes or other straps and belts. Snaffle holders can be found in the tack cupboard or tack room and are available as individual hooks, wall brackets or snaffle rails.
In addition to horse blanket and saddle holders, snaffle holders are part of every rider's basic equipment, as snaffle holders ensure that the equipment on the holder remains durable and the leather is optimally protected. Snaffle holders help to improve organisation in the stable by providing a dedicated space for bridles and bridles. Instead of placing the equipment on the floor, they will be neatly hung up.
The use of snaffle holders is important for safety and organisation in the stable. Snaffle holders reduce the risk of accidents by preventing snaffles and halters from lying on the floor or being stacked untidily. This prevents damage to the equipment. Snaffle holders also enable efficient utilisation of the available space in the stable. Snaffles, halters and ropes are hung on the wall, resulting in a tidy and well-organised stable area.
What types of snaffle holders are there?
There are 6 types of bridle holders: the single-hook and multi-hook bridle holder, the wall-mounted and door-mounted bridle holder, the free-standing bridle holder and the saddle cupboard bridle holder. The snaffle holder types differ in terms of material, design and functionality.
The types of snaffle holders are listed below.
- Single hook snaffle holder: Single hook snaffle holders have a single hook on which a snaffle or bridle is hung. The bridle holders are simple and functional and offer a space-saving solution for storing a bridle.
- Multi-hook snaffle holder: In contrast to the single hook snaffle holder, a multiple hook snaffle holder has several hooks (in most cases 2 to 6) to hang several snaffles or bridles at the same time. The holders are ideal for stables with several horses or for riders with extensive equipment.
- Snaffle holder for wall mounting: Snaffle holders for wall mounting are attached to the wall in the tack room and provide a permanent storage place for snaffles and halters. The snaffle holders are made from various materials such as metal, wood or plastic and are available in different designs.
- Snaffle holder for the door: Snaffle holders for the door are attached in the tack room, for example, and offer a space-saving solution for storing snaffles in small rooms or when travelling. Snaffle holders for the door are simply hooked into the top of the door.
- Free-hanging snaffle holder: Free-hanging holders are stand-alone units that are not attached to walls or doors. The snaffle holders are mobile and are hooked onto the stall door, trailer or other fixture. Free-hanging snaffle holders are ideal for use in different environments and can be attached without drilling.
- Saddle locker bridle holderSaddle cupboard bridle holders are specially designed for mounting in a saddle cupboard. They offer a secure storage option for snaffles and are space-saving so that they do not take up too much room in the tack room.
Where do you attach bridle holders?
Snaffle holders can either be mounted on the wall in the tack room, on a door, in a tack cupboard or hung anywhere else. Mounting the bridle holder in a lockable saddle locker is the best way to protect the equipment from theft, dirt, wear and tear and dust.
What materials are used for snaffle holders?
Various materials such as metal, wood, plastic, leather or brass are used in the manufacture of snaffle holders. The materials each have different properties and advantages. The following list shows the most common materials for a snaffle mount.
- Metal: Snaffle holders made of metal, such as stainless steel or aluminium, are particularly durable and stable. They are suitable for heavily frequented stables and are resistant to external influences.
- Wood: Wooden bridle racks add a rustic touch to the stable and are robust and durable at the same time. They are a popular choice for traditional or themed stables.
- Plastic: Plastic snaffle holders offer a cost-effective and lightweight option for storing snaffles and halters. They are easy to assemble and clean, which makes them particularly low-maintenance.
- Leather: Leather snaffle straps are an elegant and high-quality option. They give the stable a sophisticated look and are particularly hard-wearing. However, leather bridle holders are more expensive than other materials.
- Brass: Brass snaffle holders combine functionality with aesthetic elegance. Brass is a robust material that is known for its durability and natural resistance to corrosion. For this reason, brass snaffle holders are particularly suitable for use in damp stable environments.
What is stored on bridle holders?
Riding accessories such as snaffles, halters, ropes, girths, straps, stirrups, auxiliary reins, lunges, saddle or lunging girths are stored on snaffle holders. Any equipment that is hung on a hook is stored on a snaffle holder. Riding equipment such as jackets is also hung on the holder.
What advantages do snaffle holders offer?
Snaffle holders offer the benefits of organisation, space saving, equipment safety and aesthetics. In the following overview, the various advantages of snaffle holders are analysed to help riders choose the optimal holder for their needs.
- Creating order: Snaffle holders allow bridles and halters to be stored in a tidy and organised manner. Their specific arrangement makes it easier to find different items of equipment. This makes daily work in the stable easier and contributes to efficiency.
- Space saving: Snaffle holders offer a space-saving solution for storing snaffles and bridles by attaching them to the wall or in the tack room. Wall mounting is particularly advantageous in narrow or confined tack rooms where efficient use of space is crucial.
- Security: Snaffle holders provide a degree of protection for snaffles by hanging them in a fixed place, protecting them from damage caused by falling or being crushed on the ground. This helps to prolong the life of the equipment and reduces the need for repairs or replacements.
- Aesthetics: Well-designed bridle racks can also provide aesthetic benefits by giving the stable a neat and professional appearance. The visual appeal of the stable area is enhanced when the bridle rack matches the existing décor or incorporates decorative elements.
What should I bear in mind when buying snaffle holders?
The following list shows what you need to consider when buying snaffle holders.
- Limited capacity: When purchasing snaffle holders, please note that they have a limited capacity depending on the size and number of hooks. Therefore, consider how much equipment you will be storing on the holder before buying. Overloading the bridle holders can lead to clutter and impair functionality.
- Assembly effort: When installing snaffle holders, the installation effort must be taken into account. In particular, holes must be drilled and fastening materials used when attaching to the wall. Depending on the local conditions and the type of wall material, installation will present additional challenges.
- Costs: Depending on the choice of material, the purchase of bridle mounts can be expensive, especially if high-quality or specially designed models are desired. Additional expenses are incurred for the installation of fastening materials or the hiring of skilled labour to mount the holder properly.
What does a snaffle holder cost?
Simple snaffle holders made of plastic or individual metal hooks cost between 5 and 20 euros each. For higher quality snaffle holders made of metal, brass or wood, which may have decorative elements or be available in special designs, the cost is between 20 and 500 euros.
The material, the brand, the manufacturing costs and the retailer all play a decisive role in the cost of snaffle bits. The actual cost of the bridle depends on the needs of the rider.
How do you care for snaffle holders?
Snaffle holders are cared for by ensuring that they are properly cleaned, protected against corrosion, regularly maintained and the attachment of the snaffle holder regularly checked. Proper care is important to ensure the longevity and functionality of the snaffle bridle.
Listed below are tips for the correct care of the snaffle holder.
- Cleaning: Keep the bridle holder clean regularly by wiping it with a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt.
- Corrosion protection: If the snaffle holder is made of metal, make sure to treat it regularly with an anti-corrosion agent to prevent rusting.
- Check the fastening: Check the attachment of the bridle holder regularly to ensure that it is securely mounted on the wall or in the saddle locker and that there is no risk of it falling down.
- Regular maintenance: Carry out regular maintenance work to ensure that all parts of the snaffle holder are working properly and that no repairs are required.
Can you build your own snaffle holders?
Yes, you can build your own bridle racks easily and inexpensively, whereby you can choose the material, design, mounting option, load capacity and any additional functions yourself. You should choose a high-quality and durable material and the design should match the overall look of your tack room.
The mounting option should be selected according to the space requirements in the barn. The load capacity should be sufficient to carry your desired equipment. Additional features such as hooks for snaffle reins or holders for saddlecloths can also be useful.
Below we present three different methods of how you can build a bridle holder yourself. These DIY snaffle holders offer a cost-effective and practical solution for storing equestrian equipment and can be customised as required.
- Snaffle holder with hook: Attach several hooks along a wooden rail to hang bridles and bridles. Pre-drilling the holes and attaching the hooks are the steps that need to be completed first. The moulding is then mounted on the wall.
- Snaffle holder with horseshoe: The existing holes in the horseshoes can be used to connect them to a wooden moulding. Long nuts and bolts are used to attach the horseshoes to the moulding, which is then mounted on the wall.
- Snaffle holder with round timbers: Round timbers are attached to a thick wooden moulding to create space for bridles and other accessories. Once the round timbers have been attached to the moulding, it can be mounted on the wall.
Which snaffle holders do we offer from Alfako?
At Alfako, we offer two different, high-quality snaffle holders to keep your equipment safe and tidy. One snaffle holder is made of durable plastic and can be easily mounted on the wall, giving you a flexible design option for your stable or tack room. The other snaffle holder is made of metal and has 6 hooks.
You can opt for a single bridle holder, which is perfect for storing a snaffle and a halter. Alternatively, we offer a snaffle holder with 6 hooks, which allows you to store several snaffles. For even more efficient use, we also offer metal bridle holder rails. These are equipped with three snaffle holders and are specially designed for mounting in our show lockers. The snaffle holder rails offer a space-saving solution for storing multiple snaffles.
Are you still looking for a snaffle holder?
If you are still looking for a practical snaffle holder, we recommend the snaffle holders from Alfako. Our snaffle holders are easily mounted on the wall in the tack room or in the tack cupboard. Our snaffle holders ensure tidiness and cleanliness.
Do you have any questions? Feel free to contact us via our website. If you
have already purchased something from our online shop, we would be delighted to receive your ratings and reviews. We will work with you to find the ideal snaffle holder that suits you and your needs.