The Icelandic horse, a symbol of natural strength and unique beauty, is renowned for its five distinct gaits: the walk, trot, canter, and the breed-specific tölt and flying pace. This incredible versatility is not the product of artificial aids but of centuries of selective breeding and a deep cultural commitment to preserving the horse’s natural abilities. For anyone involved in this unique equestrian world, understanding the strict rules surrounding Icelandic horse gait training equipment is paramount. These regulations, primarily set by the International Federation of Icelandic Horse Associations (FEIF), are not about limiting riders but about protecting the welfare of the horse and ensuring that training enhances, rather than forces, its innate talents. Navigating the landscape of permitted, ornamental, and outright prohibited equipment is crucial for ethical and successful horsemanship.
The Philosophy Behind the Rules: Horse Welfare First
At the heart of all Icelandic horse equipment regulations is a single, guiding principle: the horse’s welfare and natural expression must be preserved. Unlike other disciplines that may use various gadgets to achieve a certain head carriage or leg action, the Icelandic approach champions training methods that rely on balance, trust, and clear communication. The goal is to present the horse as it is, without changing its natural appearance or coercing its movements through mechanical force.
This philosophy is formally enforced to maintain the integrity of the breed and competitions. The rules are designed to prevent the use of any equipment that could cause pain, discomfort, or psychological stress, or give a rider an unfair mechanical advantage.
“The essence of training an Icelandic horse is to build a partnership that unlocks its natural gaits,” explains Dr. Árni Gunnarsson, a veterinarian and leading authority on Icelandic horse biomechanics. “The equipment rules are there to ensure this partnership is based on respect and correct gymnastic training, not on leverage and force. We want to see the horse’s genuine spirit, not a manufactured performance.”
What is Prohibited? A Guide to Banned Gait Training Equipment
To protect the horse, FEIF maintains a clear list of prohibited equipment. Using any of these items in a competition setting will lead to disqualification. The list focuses on bits, bridles, and training aids that are considered too severe or that interfere with the horse’s natural way of moving.
Prohibited Bits
The horse’s mouth is a sensitive area, and the rules are strictest here. Banned bits include:
- Gag Bits: Any bit that slides up the cheekpieces is forbidden. This action creates excessive poll pressure and is considered a harsh correction tool, unsuitable for showing.
- Combination Bits: Bits that combine the action of a traditional bit with bitless pressure (like a hackamore), such as Myler combination bits, are not allowed.
- Bits with “Lock-Up” Functions: Some modern bits have joints that lock to become a solid bar when pressure is applied. This mechanism is prohibited as it fundamentally changes the bit’s action in a potentially severe way.
- Baucher Bits: These bits, which have an extra ring for the cheekpiece, are not permitted.
Prohibited Noseband Combinations
Sometimes, a piece of equipment becomes prohibited when combined with another. This is particularly true for nosebands, where the wrong combination can create extreme pressure.
- Drop, Mexican, or Flash Nosebands with Curb Bits: It is strictly forbidden to use a drop (Hanoverian), Mexican (figure-eight), or flash noseband in combination with any bit that has shanks or uses a curb chain. This combination can trap the horse’s flesh and create a severe, vice-like pressure.
Other Banned Equipment
- Extreme Weights: Using heavy bell boots or weighted rings on the horse’s legs to artificially enhance movement is strictly forbidden.
- Mechanical Aids: Any use of elastic ropes or mechanical devices attached to the horse’s legs or body to influence movement is not allowed.
- Dual Bridles: A conventional bitted bridle may not be used at the same time as a bitless bridle.
The Grey Area: Understanding “Ornamental” Equipment
The term “ornamental” can be confusing in the context of Icelandic horse rules. While a beautiful, well-maintained bridle is appreciated, the regulations prioritize function and welfare over aesthetics. The primary rule is that the “natural appearance of the horse shall not be changed.”
This means:
- No Altering Coat or Hair: Dyeing the horse’s coat or tail is prohibited. Clipping is only allowed for welfare reasons; hair on the muzzle, inside the ears, and on the fetlocks must not be clipped for showing.
- Function Over Form: Any piece of equipment that appears “ornamental” but has a hidden function to influence the horse is illegal. For example, a decorated browband that is designed to be tight and apply pressure points would be prohibited. The effect on the horse is what matters, not whether it looks decorative.
Ultimately, the equipment must be functional, fit correctly, and comply with the regulations. Flashy, decorative items are generally avoided in favor of clean, traditional, and effective tack that puts the horse’s comfort first.
What Equipment Is Generally Permitted?
In recent years, FEIF has begun moving towards a “positive list” of permitted equipment to make it easier for riders to comply. The focus is on classic, well-designed tack that allows for clear and gentle communication.
- Permitted Bits: Generally, simple snaffle bits (unbroken, single, or double-jointed) are allowed. The specific “Icelandic curb bit” is also permitted, but it must adhere to strict measurements regarding mouthpiece thickness (minimum 10mm), the length of the loose connection at the cheek, and more.
- Permitted Nosebands: The most common and accepted noseband is the English (or plain cavesson) noseband. Some anatomically shaped cavesson nosebands are also allowed.
- Protective Boots: Simple brushing boots or splint boots are permitted to protect the horse’s legs from interference.
The key is always a proper fit. Even a permitted bit or noseband can cause harm if it is too large, too small, or incorrectly adjusted. Riders are responsible for ensuring their equipment is comfortable for their horse.
Biosecurity: The Other Prohibited List
Separate from training and competition rules, there is a critical biosecurity regulation for anyone traveling to Iceland. Because of its geographic isolation, the Icelandic horse population is not vaccinated and has no immunity to many common equine diseases.
Therefore, it is strictly prohibited to bring any used leather riding equipment into the country. This includes:
- Saddles
- Bridles and bits
- Halters
- Riding gloves
Riding clothes and boots must be thoroughly washed and disinfected before arrival. This rule is vital for protecting the health and future of the native horse population.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why are the equipment rules for Icelandic horses so strict?
The rules are designed to prioritize the welfare of the horse, preserve its natural gaits, and ensure fairness in competition. The goal is to reward excellent training and horsemanship, not the use of artificial or forceful equipment.
Can I use a flash noseband on my Icelandic horse?
A flash noseband is only permitted when used with a simple snaffle bit that does not have shanks or a curb chain. It is strictly prohibited to combine a flash noseband with any type of curb or lever bit.
What does FEIF say about decorative browbands?
While a browband can be aesthetically pleasing, it must not have any function other than holding the bridle in place. If a “decorative” browband is designed to be tight or apply pressure, it would be considered illegal. The focus is always on comfort and non-interference.
Are weighted boots allowed for gait training?
No, the use of extreme weights or bell boots that are unnaturally heavy to alter a horse’s leg action is strictly prohibited in competition and is against the training philosophy. Standard, protective boots are allowed.
Is it true I can’t bring my own saddle to Iceland?
Yes, it is absolutely true. To protect the native horse population from foreign diseases, you cannot bring used leather equipment, including saddles, bridles, or even riding gloves, into Iceland.
Conclusion: A Partnership Built on Respect
The world of Icelandic horses is built on a foundation of respect for the animal’s natural spirit and abilities. The detailed rules governing gait training equipment are not arbitrary restrictions but a reflection of this core value. By prohibiting harsh, artificial, or forceful aids, the community ensures that the spotlight remains on the true partnership between horse and rider. Understanding and embracing these principles is the first step toward ethically training these magnificent animals and celebrating the pure, unadulterated beauty of the tölt and flying pace. Ultimately, the best tool in Icelandic horse gait training is not a piece of equipment, but a deep knowledge of the horse itself.
