Equiband System

The Equiband® system consists of a saddlepad and two separate lengths of Equiband® that are attached to the saddlepad. The saddlepad is available in X-Small, Small, Regular and Large. The saddlepad is made up of a wool/felt mix and is machine-washable. It is ergonomically shaped to prevent any restriction in the wither or lower back regions. The clips that attach Equiband® to the saddlepad are designed for durability and safety. The saddle pad is designed for use with jumping, dressage and western saddles.

The Equiband® itself is made of latex-free rubber, specifically designed for use on horses. The Equiband® system uses either one or both bands on the horse; one shorter band attaches the left side of the saddle pad to the right, passing under the abdomen (abdominal band or AB). The band sits well behind the rider’s leg. Its function is to stimulate the abdominal musculature during locomotion. The abdominal musculature supports the horse’s back. The position of this band is especially indicated for horses that have recovered from a colic surgery, have poor (inverted) posture and in clinical cases such as diagnosed conditions of the back including ‘kissing spines’.

The second and longer Equiband® attaches at an oblique angle from the left side of the saddle pad to the right, passing under the tail behind the horse’s hindquarters (hindquarter band or HQ). It will settle in the point of least resistance, above the hock and just below the level of the stifle. Its function is to make the horse aware of the position of his hind limbs in locomotion and to enhance proprioception. The position of this band is especially indicated for horses with asymmetrical hind limb movement, poor engagement and poor development of major muscle groups such as biceps femoris (which is associated with movement) as well as horses recovering from diagnosed musculoskeletal or neurological (EPM) conditions.

The two lengths of Equiband® are delivered pre-threaded but will need to be adjusted for each horse as per instructions below. If the bands are only used on one horse it is advisable to trim the ends of the band with scissors after fitting and adjustment. If the band is used on multiple horses the fit and adjustment needs to be checked prior to use. Additional bands may also be purchased through the Equicore office.

WHY IS EQUIBAND® UNIQUE?

• No habituation to the resistance band, providing constant proprioceptive feedback in motion – this is lost with other materials (such as soft bandages) that slip, move or curl.

• Direct and constant stimulation of core musculature during locomotion.

• Continuous physical resistance promoting stability in movement.

• The horse maintains an intact posture during dynamic exercise – no possibility of ‘cheating’ strategies.

N.B. X-Large sizing is designed for much larger 'Western' horses.

Once opened and seated on a horse, this product is strictly non-refundable.