Editing Barrel racing (section)

==Tack and equipment==
There are no specific bits required for barrel racing, although some bits are more common to barrel racers.  The type used is determined by an individual horse's needs.  Bits with longer shanks cause the horse to stop quicker than normal due to the additional leverage on the poll and jaw, while bits with shorter shanks  provide better control for turns. [[Curb chain]]s, [[noseband]]s, and [[Martingale (tack)|tiedowns]] are used as needed.<ref name="horse911.com">{{cite web|title=Barrel Racing Tack & Equipment|url=http://www.horse411.com/barrel-racing-tack-equipment/|website=Horse411|publisher=www.horse411.com|access-date=January 24, 2018|date=25 February 2014}}</ref>

Typically, reins used in barrel racing competitions are a single looped rein.  This allows the rider the ability to quickly recover the reins if dropped, unlike split reins.  Leather reins are widely used.  These can be flat or braided, but both varieties have a tendency to become slippery when wet.  Reins made of synthetic materials are also available.<ref name="horse911.com"/>

A lightweight [[western saddle]] with a high pommel and cantle is ideal.  Forward hung stirrups also help to keep the rider's feet in proper position.  Typically, riders choose a saddle that is up to a full size smaller than he or she would normally use.  Most importantly, it must fit the rider's horse properly.  [[Saddle pad]]s and cinches are chosen based on the horse's size.<ref name="horse911.com"/>