Horse trailer travelling configurations

Whilst the majority of horse trailers still travel horses facing forward, there are alternatives on the market -research by Dr Natalie K Waran at the University of Edinburgh on the ‘Effects of transporting horses facing either forwards or backwards on their behaviour and heart-rate’, published in the Veterinary Record in 1996, suggests travelling backwards is preferable. This section looks at the various options available and weighs up the pros and cons of each, so you can work out what solution would work best for you...

Forward facing horse trailer

The majority of single and double horse trailers currently on the market fall into this category. Horses travel facing forward with a breast bar and breeching strap / bar to prevent them moving forward or backward and providing additional support. While recent research suggests that travelling facing backward or on the herringbone is preferable to facing forwards, it remains most common way of travelling in a horse trailer and the majority of horses travel with no ill-effect.

Makes & Models include:

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Rear facing horse trailer

While traditionally most horse trailers travel horses facing forward, comprehensive research in both the UK and America suggests that, on balance, horses travel better facing backward. As well as a less stressful journey, there are also physical and safety benefits. In the event of sudden breaking, in a normal forward-facing horse trailer the momentum would force the horse forward into the breast bar, exposing the vulnerable head, neck and throat and chest area. In rear-facing travel, however, it is the muscular rump that takes the brunt of the impact, providing greater protection. This has led to a growing number of horse trailers that allow horses to travel facing the rear being developed.

Herringbone / diagonal horse trailer

Mirroring the configuration of many motorised horseboxes, the horses travel on the diagonal, maximising space and also helping horses balance naturally using their head and neck, rather than by leaning back onto the breech bar. Most herringbone arrangements also enable you to increase or decrease the width of the partition depending on the build and preference of the individual horse.

Last updated: 11/09/2009