The 10 Best Horse Leads
This wiki has been updated 18 times since it was first published in September of 2020. Whether you need a lead for training, groundwork, extra control or just regular everyday use, this list will have something both you and your majestic steed will love. Including polypropylene, leather, brass and even bamboo materials, these lead ropes come in an extensive range of lengths, weights, diameters, and colors and patterns to match your specific wants and needs. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Knotty Girls Premium Double Braid
2. Mustang Bamtex Bamboo Cowboy
3. Mustang Poly Rope
Editor's Notes
October 19, 2020:
As any horse person knows, all lead ropes are not created equal. We've added a diverse range of leads to this list that suit purposes ranging from everyday use to training and groundwork, so that you can find something that will work for you.
For horses and their humans who live in warmer, sunnier areas, the Knotty Girls Premium Double Braid will hold up well. It comes in options for both loop and snap ends, is constructed from strong and durable yacht rope, has very little stretch, and is sunlight and abrasion resistant. It can be used as a standard lead, a lunge line, and reins. It has a good weight to it without being too heavy or light and its quality holds up to the pricier brands often promoted by clinicians.
The Mustang Bamtex Bamboo Cowboy lead line is an innovative creation constructed from sturdy bamboo fibers. It's hypoallergenic and suitable for those with sensitive skin that may be prone to rashes or dryness when handling standard ropes. It's resistant to sweat and moisture and has natural antibacterial properties that will keep it from harboring mold or other dangerous organisms.
If color is your thing, the Mustang Poly Rope is for you. It comes in 25 different color and pattern options, ranging from subdued earth tones to vibrant neon hues. As far as its construction goes, it's a pretty standard lead, measuring out to 9 feet. It's long and strong enough to be a great everyday tool, but it's not likely to be suitable for groundwork or squirmy horses who like to pull on their lead lines. For those sorts of horses, we'd recommend the Weaver Brass Swivel Chain for an economical and efficient option.
Special Honors
Pat Parelli Training Ropes Designed by the world renowned horse trainer Pat Parelli, these ropes are crafted with groundwork in mind. They tend to run a bit on the expensive side, but the quality of their construction is well worth the hefty price tag. parelli.com
Downunder Horsemanship On the ritzy end of the spectrum, Downunder Horsemanship crafts quality lead lines designed by horse people for horse people. Their lead lines are constructed from marine yachting rope and will last for many years with proper handling and care. downunderhorsemanship.com
4. TGW Riding Poly
5. Big Sky Tack Yacht Rope
6. Weaver Poly
7. Perri's Leather and Chain
8. Weaver Brass Swivel Chain
9. Mustang Manufacturing Braided
10. Formay Cowboy Nylon
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