New from Equilibrium Products, the Stellar head collar is the ultimate in safety!
Most of us will use a head collar every day, but how safe is yours? Equilibrium Products commissioned Dr David Marlin, a scientist with over 25 years experience as an equine consultant, to research head collar safety with some very surprising results.
They surveyed 5615 owners to determine their experiences with head collars, and the results showed that 15% of those surveyed and 31% of their horses had been injured as a result of a head collar. They then tested at what load different head collars broke or released. This showed that some broke with just 9kg of weight, which is impractical in an every day situation, whilst others didn’t brake until over 600kg was applied – this is more than the average horse weighs which puts them at serious risk of injury.
The Stellar head collar was designed so that owners do not need to compromise on safety. It has a specially designed headpiece with adjustable press-stud fasteners and keepers on both sides. Changing the position of the keeper alters the force it takes to release, which is ideal for different situations. The headpiece releases when poll pressure reaches between 50 – 90kg to prevent injury to the soft tissues and nerves in the face, poll and neck, and simply clicks back in place for its’ next use. This has been scientifically tested in both laboratory and practical situations with consistent results.
Made from pvc with neoprene padding, it is durable, waterproof and comfortable, with stainless steel fittings that are suitable for all weathers so it can be used in every day situations. The leather look is also super smart yet simple to clean – just wash down with warm water. Alongside it, the Stellar lead rope has been tested to work with the head collar to ensure consistency with the release points, which is important for accidents that happen when the horse is tied up. The end stop cuff and rubber collar at the clip also enables the handler to maintain good grip for a practical accessory that you shouldn’t live without!
