How To Adjust Your Traces

[@kylareppond]

Thank you so much for this!

[@AMonikaD]

Omg - THANK YOU !! I'm just learning how to hitch and this was very important. There is not enough in depth videos. It would make a huge difference (but more editing for you) if you could do close ups as well. Thanks !!! I wish I could have a cart like yours.

[@MindySchroder]

I’m not sure what I would do close ups of. If you give me some ideas maybe I can put that together!

[@ltilley7343]

Thank you Mindy! This video was so timely for me. I recently had an instructor at a clinic adjust the length of my traces which then required them to be attached to the single tree by the rings instead of the slots. I have used the rings with a different cart with no problems.. However, the other day after some trotting and cantering one of the traces popped off! I took this to mean that the traces were too loose. I have moved them one hole (to the last hole) at the breast collar for my next drive and will do the movement test you demonstrated after hitching to check things out first. Any comments?

[@MindySchroder]

How are your traces attached to your single tree? If you are using the rings then you should also be using quick release shackles. In that case they would never pop off... Once I have that information I can help you troubleshoot!

[@ltilley7343]

@@MindySchroder Yes, by the rings. They would be too long otherwise, In fact I had put an additional hole in the traces that go with my Comfy Fit Harness, which is where it is now, so this is as short as the traces will go.

[@MindySchroder]

@@ltilley7343 do you have the quick release shackles on your single tree? They will snap around the ring and then they will not be able to come off unless you pull the release ring on the shackle.

[@emilylewis7642]

do you recommend always using a single tree? Ive seen so many carts at POA shows that don't have one. Is it just for everyday training?

[@MindyBlooming]

I do recommend using a single tree all the time. I know sometimes people do things a bit different at shows but that doesn’t mean it’s the right way (or the safest way). In my opinion it’s best to always put the equines best interest first and worry about what everyone else is doing last.

[@emilylewis7642]

@@MindyBlooming I certainly agree that "horse first" is an absolute must! Thank you for responding.