Using paracord on young horses concerned about breakaway safety

[craftedbyhand1022]

I've recently started making my own paracord tack and have been using it on a few of my green colts during groundwork and short rides. So far, it's been holding up really well, but I'm starting to have some doubts. Paracord is extremely tough, and I can't help but worry about what might happen if one of them spooks or accidentally steps on the reins,there's just no give.

Would it make sense to add a leather water loop or a softer connector to create a breakaway point? Has anyone tried using coreless braids for this? I'm also curious about rawhide romals, do they snap under pressure, or do they hold strong like paracord?

I'd love to hear how others manage this when working with younger or more jumpy horses.

 

[awlORnothing]

I've made paracord tack for my own young horses too, great stuff, but yeah, no give can be risky. I ended up adding leather water loops as a breakaway. They'll give under pressure without trashing the whole setup. Coreless braids help a bit too, but leather's more predictable. Romals usually hold firm, but the leather connection can snap if needed

 

[88rising]

@awlORnothing I second the leather loop idea. I had one save a colt last fall when he panicked and caught a foot. The tack stayed mostly intact, but he got free without injury.

 

[Stitch101]

Using a leather water loop or breakaway is a good idea for safety. Paracord is strong and can be risky with horses that spook easily. A rawhide will break when there's too much pressure but will hold up fine otherwise. For a softer feel, try yacht braid, or add snaps where needed. Young horses especially need these safety features.