Description
The EDIX Hack-Q® shanks are designed as a gentle and versatile hackamore system, suitable for both experienced and beginning riders across all riding disciplines. These innovative shanks combine the functionality of an English hackamore, a side-cue bridle, and a bosal in one design.
The EDIX Hack-Q® was designed and developed in collaboration with Esther Boekel. The model of the EDIX Hack-Q® shanks is officially registered with the EUIPO under number 007789730.
General Functionality of the EDIX Hack-Q® Bridle
With a slight wiggling motion of the reins, the rider can give a clear “pre-cue” via the rings. When contact is then taken up on the reins, a light and limited leverage effect occurs, engaging the chin strap and the noseband together. After this short action, the pressure is transferred entirely to the noseband. Depending on how the bridle is adjusted and how the rein aids are given, it’s possible to apply pressure to either the noseband or the chin strap only. There is no added pressure on the horse’s poll: the Hack-Q® shanks have a direct release and fully relieve the atlas area. Thanks to the design of the Hack-Q® shanks, the noseband does not shift and remains correctly positioned. The pressure will never be more than the weight you carry in your hands. Additionally, the noseband always sits higher than the chin strap.
The EDIX Hack-Q® is the only system in which the noseband and chin strap have reversed positions. This allows the chin strap to sit as low as possible on the jaw for optimal function. The chin strap is softly padded for comfort, a secure fit, and freedom of jaw movement, which encourages relaxation. The Hack-Q® design also ensures that the cheek pieces do not move when rein contact is applied. This is because the shanks pivot like a seesaw at the end of the cheek pieces, keeping them stable. The Hack-Q® relieves pressure behind the ears, over the atlas, and at the TMJ joint. Thanks to the pivoting action of the shanks, no additional pressure is applied behind the ears when rein contact is made.
Limited Leverage and Direct Release
The Hack-Q® shanks are designed to provide minimal and limited leverage. The purpose of this light leverage effect is communication, not correction. When the maximum leverage point is reached, the pressure is immediately transferred to the noseband. You can influence the leverage action by giving your rein aids upward. Horses tend to lean into constant pressure, so light, short aids with immediate release are more effective for building mutual respect.
The Hack-Q® shanks provide immediate release once rein contact is relaxed. The aids are clearly transmitted and then instantly removed. The rings on the shanks also allow for a “pre-cue” by wiggling the reins, which creates an audible vibration and adds an extra dimension to your communication.
Lateral Aids / Side-Cue
Thanks to the design of the Hack-Q®, the position of the straps, and the moveable rings, the bridle is also highly effective for one-sided rein aids, similar to a sidepull bridle. Unlike other hackamore shanks that tend to flip over, the EDIX Hack-Q® shanks remain stable on the horse’s head, allowing for a safe one-rein stop in emergency situations.
