Can The Bitless Bridle be used with a mecate rein and lead rope?
You could probably use mecate reins but The Bitless Bridle™ does not lend itself to use of the lead rope extension. If you use mecate reins, the weight of these, being greater than a strap rein, will have an effect quite opposite to their effect when used with a bosal. In other words, the weight of the reins will discourage 'release' rather than produce it. However, as 'release' is not such a necessary part of The Bitless Bridle™ as it is with either a bosal or a bit, this feature does not represent a serious contraindication for use of a mecate. The weight of the reins will simply produce a little more constant contact, but without causing any pain.
If the mecate reins are permanently tied to The Bitless Bridle™, you will find it a little less convenient when it comes to bridling your horse. The weight of the reins will tend to close the loop in the crossover straps, through which your horse has to drop his muzzle. This is not an insurmountable problem but it could represent a nuisance.
In summary, if you are keen to use a mecate rein and do not mind shortening it, go ahead, even though The Bitless Bridle™ is not really designed for use with a heavy rein. A yacht cord rein produces similar problems.
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