Martin Saddlery Browband Headstall with Latigo Bit Ties

Keep Your Bit Secure Through Every Colt Start and Hard Stop

The Martin Saddlery Browband Headstall is built for riders who need rock-solid stability whether you're training a green horse or pushing into the barrels at full speed. Crafted from premium Hermann Oak leather with a traditional browband and throatlatch design, this headstall keeps your bit exactly where it belongs—no head tossing, no bridle shake-off during those first rides. The latigo bit ties let you swap bits in seconds without hunting for a screwdriver, and the rust-resistant stainless steel hardware is designed to hold up through years of daily ranch work.

What sets this headstall apart is the feel—supple right out of the box, with that broken-in comfort horses respond to from day one. Multiple adjustment holes on the cheekpieces give you precise fit control, and the Hermann Oak leather only gets better with time. From our barn to yours, this is the kind of tack that earns its keep season after season.

Why Riders Choose Martin Saddlery Browband Headstall

• Browband stability for training and speed work — Integrated throatlatch prevents bridle slip during head shaking or high-intensity maneuvers, essential for colt starting and barrel racing.
• Tool-free bit changes with latigo ties — Swap bits in the barn or at the trailer without Chicago screws—latigo provides secure, flexible attachment that won't back out mid-ride.
• Hermann Oak leather that breaks in, not down — Premium full-grain leather feels supple from the first use and develops a rich patina that only improves with age and weather exposure.
• Rust-resistant stainless steel hardware — Buckles designed for long-term durability in all weather conditions, from humid coastal arenas to dusty ranch country.
• Wide adjustment range for precise fit — Multiple cheekpiece holes accommodate most horses 14.2–16 hands, ensuring balanced bit placement and even pressure distribution.
• Ranch-proven construction for daily use — Built to handle the rigors of training, trail miles, and competitive events without premature wear or hardware failure.

Best For

Trainers and ranch riders looking for dependable bit security during colt starting, trail work, and speed events.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does the sizing run on Martin Saddlery headstalls?

This headstall is sized for the average horse, fitting most animals between 14.2 and 16 hands. The cheekpieces have a wide range of adjustment holes, so you can dial in the exact fit to keep your bit positioned correctly and ensure even pressure across the bridle. If you're between sizes or have a horse with a particularly refined or large head, measure your current headstall cheekpiece length for comparison.

Q: Are latigo bit ties secure enough for speed events and young horses?

Yes—latigo ties are a favorite among barrel racers and colt starters for good reason. They provide a secure, slightly flexible connection that absorbs shock and movement without loosening, unlike Chicago screws that can back out over time. The Martin Saddlery latigo ties are cut from quality leather and tied with traditional knots that hold firm even during hard stops and head tosses.

Q: Does Hermann Oak leather require a lot of breaking in?

One of the best things about Hermann Oak leather is that it feels supple right from the start—no stiff, uncomfortable break-in period for you or your horse. A quick wipe with a damp cloth and a light coat of conditioner will keep it soft and weather-resistant. Over time, the leather develops a beautiful, rich patina that tells the story of every ride without sacrificing strength or flexibility.