Romal Reins

Romal reins are a style of western rein rooted in the vaquero tradition of California and the American West. Unlike split reins — which are two separate rein lengths that can be handled independently — romal reins are a single, connected pair of reins joined at the bit rings, running back through the rider's hand to a braided extension called the romal. The romal hangs down from the hand and can be used as a light encouragement aid.

Romal reins are ridden one-handed with a closed fist and give a clean, traditional presentation in the arena. They're a hallmark of the California-style bridlehorse tradition and are closely associated with advanced vaquero horsemanship.

Romal reins are most commonly associated with disciplines connected to the California vaquero tradition — including western horsemanship, western pleasure, showmanship, and advanced bridlehorse and hackamore work. In competition, they're often required or preferred in western horsemanship and western pleasure classes where a traditional one-handed presentation is expected.

They're equally at home in trail riding, ranch riding and general pleasure work for any rider who prefers the connected rein style and the classic look of a romal over split reins.

We stock five styles of romal reins, each in a different material or construction — all finished with a leather popper and made to McDonald's Saddlery's own specifications:

• Natural rawhide — finished with rawhide buttons and beads. 8½ ft, $139.95.
• Cherry wood plaited leather — finished with natural rawhide buttons and beads. A rich chestnut-toned plaited leather with a traditional look. 8½ ft, $155.95.
• Leather with leather buttons and beads — two styles available in this material at 7½ ft, $169.95 each.
• Parachute cord — finished with rawhide buttons and beads. A durable, practical alternative to leather or rawhide. 7½ ft, $129.95.

If you're unsure which style is right for your discipline or aesthetic, get in touch — we're happy to help.

McDonald's Saddlery's romal reins are available in two lengths — all measurements exclude the popper:

• 7½ ft — suits most riders and standard western riding situations. The leather and parachute cord styles are this length.
• 8½ ft — a longer option better suited to taller riders, or horses that naturally carry their head higher or further from the rider. The natural rawhide and cherry wood plaited leather styles are this length.

If you're competing in a class with specific equipment rules, it's worth checking your rulebook — some associations specify rein length or style requirements.

Yes — McDonald's Saddlery ships to all states and territories across Australia. Orders over $150 receive free standard shipping anywhere in Australia, and Australia Post's calculated rates apply to orders below that threshold. Express Post is also available at checkout. We ship internationally too — if you're based overseas, please contact us for a shipping quote before placing your order.