The mecate, also called sometimes McCarty reins or McCarthy outfit, is a piece of equipment originally used by the California Vaqueros. Traditionally, colts were started in a hackamore and mecate, that was their first step to the bridle horse. Nowadays, mecates can be used in connection with a snaffle bit and becomes the first step of the education. This is followed by the bosal, the two-reins and finally the bridle.
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Adjustable reins
I really like to ride with a mecate for several reasons. First, it offers you the possibility to adjust the length of your reins depending on the horse you are riding. May it be short, or have a longer neck, you simply have to loosen up a little the knot at the slobber strap, pull the mecate in one direction or the other, tighten up your knot, and you’re set!
It’s also very practical when starting colts, or rehabilitating older disrespectful horses. Usually, I’ll shorten my reins to be able to perform quick lateral flexion if things go south. Once the horse is feeling more confident, I can lengthen the mecate again, and ride him on loose reins.
Always a lead rope at your disposal
The second great feature I really like with a mecate is the fact that you always have the possibility to get off your horse and use it as a lead rope, right away. Whether you’re a cowboy working cows, a trail rider who needs to remove something on the way, or a rider who needs to fix something on the ground with your horse: just get off the saddle, and get to work!
A mecate simply looks great
I know I said two reasons, so let’s say two good reasons, and a superficial one ^^ Mecates look great. They come in different material and colours.
When using a snaffle bit, I like the paracord mecate, whether it be with different colours, or the plain white or black ones from Double Diamond. And, when your horse is ready to ride in a bosal, you can switch to a horse hair mecate, the traditional one, hand braided. They look beautiful, they will last very long if you take good care of them, and they help you teach neck reining to your horse.