Horse racing headgear explained
Recognise the equipment. Understand why it is used.
Blinkers (b)
Eye cups limit side and rear vision. A trainer may use them to reduce distractions and help a horse concentrate.
Cheekpieces (p)
Fleece strips on the cheek straps encourage focus with less restriction than blinkers.
Visor (v)
Like blinkers, with slits in the eye cups allowing some side or rear vision while limiting distractions.
Hood (h)
Fabric covers the ears to soften noise while leaving the eyes clear. Trainers may use a hood to help a nervous horse settle.
Tongue tie (t)
A soft strap holds the tongue in position. It may be used to stop the tongue moving over the bit or for airway concerns.
First-time equipment and combined symbols
A small superscript 1 indicates first-time use of that equipment, such as b1 for first-time blinkers or p1 for first-time cheekpieces. Combinations include tp for tongue tie and cheekpieces, tb for tongue tie and blinkers, th for tongue tie and hood, tv for tongue tie and visor, and htp for hood, tongue tie and cheekpieces.
Codes can vary between racecard providers. Check the key on the racecard you are using. A change is a clue to investigate, not a promise: headgear does not guarantee improvement.
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