Harness

The equipment of a horse that is driven, as opposed to one that is ridden. Harnesses are made in a wide variety of styles and sizes, suited for the many styles of driving and the various breeds of horses used.

The most common harness types are the single-hitch draft or carriage harness, the fine harness, and the team/draft harness.

Although each style differs, most harnesses include: a headstall that holds one or two bits; a breast collar or neck collar, some type of surcingle or bellyband, and traces to aid in securing the shafts of the vehicle to the horse; breeching or tugs to aid in stopping the vehicle; and a crupper to help prevent the harness from being pulled too far forward on the horse's body.