QUESTION: I just finished reading the October 2005 issue of USDF Connection and was interested in the article called "Tack-Room Essentials". On page 53 there is a very nice article about the bucking strap, which has been an essential part of my equipment for several years. But I always remove the strap at dressage shows, I thought it was an inappropriate piece of equipment and would not be acceptable in the judge's eyes. The picture of Bent Jensen implys that he rode the class at Devon with it in place. Is this strap acceptable in the show ring?
Answer submitted by Kerry Petty:
Yes you are allowed to use a strap as this is a safety measure and not an added device to assist in the training of the horse. If it is fitted correctly and of the same color as your saddle it should be hardly noticed.
Answer submitted by Sue Hughes:
Since the bucking strap is not mentioned in the Rule Book, it is OK to have on your saddle. So, if you like the idea of it being there or even if you use it,
it is OK. There is no rule about that either.
While I am judging I am focused on requirement number one and that is observing and commenting and giving a number to the training of the horse, the quality of the gaits and the execution of the figure or movement,
that there is very little space left over in my head to think about a bucking strap. Therefore, I consider it a personal choice, within the saddlery rules, and not needing comment from me.