Understanding the Different Types of Grackle Nosebands

Research shows that pressure is distributed more evenly with a grackle noseband compared to a flash noseband, making it a preferred choice for horses that require a combination of comfort and control. Some people may opt for a grackle due to the positioning of the pad being higher, avoiding the soft cartilage of the nostrils and providing a more comfortable fit with adjustability.

Traditionally there are two main variations of grackle - one that sits on the cheekbone (Mexican, Figure of 8) and one that sits below (English).

The straps on the English grackle sit below the cheekbone. They are positioned in a way that crosses over the horse’s nose in a crisscross pattern, closer to the nasal passages. The English Grackle can potentially put more pressure on the horse than other grackles due to the differences in design and fit.

Since 2016, Grackles are competition legal within British Dressage (BD) and British Eventing (BE). 

At Henry James Saddlery we offer two designs of grackle -

Figure of 8 Grackle Noseband

The Figure of 8 Grackle gets its name from the shape of its noseband, which resembles the number "8."

Our design features a strap that runs across the horse’s nose and a second strap that loops around the first, creating a figure-of-eight shape which fastens on one side. Straps are padded for additional comfort across the cheekbones. The grackle straps are fixed creating a more precise fit - this is curated for horses who may have smaller or less prominent cheekbones.

This noseband is available with a leather central pad or a sheepskin pad.

Double Buckle Mexican Grackle Noseband

The Mexican Grackle is similar to the Figure of 8 but with some key differences.

Our Mexican Grackle is designed with rings, offering more articulation and adjustability to get a more accurate fit allowing for even distribution across the nose. It also has double buckle chin strap to help achieve an optimal.

This noseband comes with an interchangeable cushioned leather central pad and a sheepskin leather central pad.