At horse racing events, spectators may notice that some horses wear distinctive equipment, such as masks or brightly coloured hoods. These items often catch the eye and can leave newcomers to the sport wondering about their purpose.
In this blog post, we will explore the main types of headgear used in racing, including hoods and masks, explain the role of red hoods, and examine how these items can affect a horse’s vision. We will also look at the key factors trainers consider when selecting and maintaining such equipment.
Read on to learn more.
What is Horse Racing Gear?
Horse racing gear refers to the various items used to help horses perform and remain comfortable during a race. Trainers select equipment to suit each horse’s temperament and style. Core items include saddles and bridles, which help the rider guide the horse efficiently, and horseshoes, which protect the hooves and provide grip on the track.
In addition to these essentials, you might notice horses wearing other equipment on their heads. This includes items that sometimes obscure parts of the horse’s vision or cover the ears. These items may give hints about how a horse is being prepared on race day, although their exact purpose might not be immediately obvious.
Why Do Horses Wear Hoods?
Hoods are soft coverings that fit over a horse’s head and sometimes the ears. They are often used to help horses remain calm or reduce certain distractions before a race. Horses are naturally alert animals, so even small movements or sounds might make them tense.
Some hoods include light padding over the ears, which might lessen the impact of noise. Trainers observe each horse closely to decide if a hood might help with pre-race behaviour. Not all horses need this kind of support; some cope with activity and noise without extra assistance.
The goal is to help the horse settle and move smoothly, particularly during pre-race activities. This principle is part of why other types of headgear, such as masks, are also used.
Why Do Horses Wear Masks?
Masks generally cover part of a horse’s face, often around the eyes, and serve to help horses focus during a race. The most common types are blinkers and visors, which work in slightly different ways.
Blinkers narrow the horse’s field of vision, encouraging it to look ahead rather than notice other horses or movements on the sides. Visors are less restrictive, allowing some peripheral vision while still helping the horse concentrate.
Some masks also include a fine mesh to protect the eyes from dust, sunlight, or mud. Trainers choose masks based on how a horse reacts to its surroundings, with the aim of promoting steady behaviour from start to finish.
This expands on the idea introduced with hoods: just as some headgear might calm a horse, other types might shape how it sees and reacts to the environment.
What Are Red Hoods and Why Are They Used?
Red hoods are a specific type of hood often used before a race, particularly in pre-race routines like walking in the parade ring or waiting in the starting stalls. They are lightweight coverings for the head and ears, designed to reduce distractions before the race begins.
The red colour helps handlers and officials spot the hood easily and remove it before the horse runs. Unlike blinkers or visors, red hoods are generally temporary and are intended to support calmness before the race, rather than influencing vision during it.
For horses that become particularly excitable or nervous, trainers may choose a red hood to help manage their behaviour. This shows how different forms of headgear are used at different stages: some support the horse before racing, while others focus on concentration during the race itself.
How Do Hoods and Masks Affect a Horse’s Vision?
As mentioned earlier, masks like blinkers and visors shape vision by narrowing the field of sight, helping the horse stay focused straight ahead. Hoods, in contrast, usually do not block vision; their main role might be reducing noise or shielding the eyes from dust and sunlight.
Some hoods may include fine mesh over the eyes. This allows the horse to see forward while offering a small level of protection from glare or debris.
When used appropriately, these tools might prevent overstimulation. Horses that are sensitive or easily distracted may benefit, helping them remain attentive on the track.
How Do Trainers Choose and Care for Horse Hoods and Masks?
Choosing the right headgear involves observing the horse in training and early workouts. Trainers consider:
- Behaviour during practice: Does the horse settle or become tense?
- Sensitivity to sound or light: Some horses may respond better to ear coverings or sun-protective mesh.
- Reaction to other horses: Horses that are easily distracted might benefit from blinkers.
Fit is essential. Equipment must stay in place without causing irritation, rubbing, or pressure points. Poorly fitted gear might be uncomfortable and affect performance.
Trainers often trial different designs during training, adjusting based on how the horse moves and settles. Maintenance is also crucial: clean and intact headgear reduces discomfort and ensures protective materials remain effective.
For spectators, understanding these choices may provide insight into how horses are prepared. If you choose to bet on races, always do so responsibly. Only wager what you can afford, and seek help from organisations such as GamCare or GambleAware if gambling becomes a problem.
Across all these considerations, the principle remains: headgear helps horses focus and move comfortably. Whether supporting pre-race calmness with a red hood or guiding concentration with blinkers, these items support consistent behaviour and overall welfare.
