A lunge rein (also known as a lunge line) is integral to lunging a horse. It’s also handy to use when long-reining or leading some horses out in hand, as it allows for more distance between the horse and handler without having to let go.
Correct lunging is a skill that needs to be learned, practised and honed by both you and your horse. So as well as making sure you’re using the right lunging aids and kit, you’ll need to ensure your technique is up to scratch too.
Choosing a lunge rein
Lunge lines come in different lengths, and opting for one that is long enough to enable you to lunge your horse up to a 20m circle is a popular choice.
Generally, a lunge rein has a loop handle for you to hold at one end (but never put your whole hand through it) and a clip at the other end to attach to your horse’s bridle or cavesson.
Some brands will incorporate additional touches, such as distance markers, additional padding for comfort, or special clips.
Riders who are experienced at lunging a horse may choose to use two lunge reins, with the second rein attaching to the outside of the horse’s bridle or cavesson, passing through the roller and running around the quarters, back to your hand.
Whichever lunge rein you choose, I recommend always wearing a pair of gloves when you’re using it. If the lunge rein suddenly pulls through your hands because your horse has spooked or bucked, for example, it hurts (a lot) if you don’t have anything on to protect them.
Padded versions are often kinder on hands too. Happy lunging!
Shop for a lunge rein
Please note that this is a shopping list of lunge reins. Unless otherwise stated, we haven’t seen or tested them. When we have completed our testing, we will update this page with our reviews.
Cushion Web Lunge Line
This soft tubular nylon web lunge rein features a swivel trigger clip at one end and a hand loop at the other.
Colours: Black, navy, red, purple, pink, raspberry, blue, orange, green, forest, grey, navy/ red, navy/ pink, navy/ Cambridge
Length: 8m
RRP £8.99
Buying in the UK? Purchase here
Ships internationally
Cottage Craft Comfyweb Lunge Line with Markers 
This Comfyweb lunge rein has a handle loop and high-quality anti-rust trigger clip.
It features 10m, 15m and 20m markers so that handlers can accurately work their horse to the desired circle size.
Colour: Black. Length: 21m
RRP £14.95 (sale price)
Buying in the UK? Purchase here
Ships internationally
Horze Lunging Line
The Horze lunging line is made from soft, cushioned webbing material. The big durable snap ensures that it is safely connected to the lunging delta. The material offers an easy, secure grip.
Colours: Dark blue, raspberry pink, turquoise blue
RRP £14.99 (US$16.99)
Buying in the UK? Purchase here
Buying in the USA? Purchase here
Kavalkade Grip Lunging Line
This lunge line is made with rubberised rein material (without stop ridges) for improved grip and better handling. It has a loop at one end and clip at the other.
Colour: Black
Length: 8m
RRP £29.99
Buying in the UK? Purchase here
Ships internationally
SHOWMASTER Lunge Rein Quick Change 
This softly padded lunge rein is made from polyester, which the manufacturer states will not burn the skin.
The unique design means the clip is easy to switch if necessary, as it is pulled through a loop rather than sewn on.
Colours: Black, mulberry, marine, oregano
Length: 7.7m
RRP £13.90
Buying in the UK? Purchase here
Ships in Europe
EquiAmi Lunge Line
This lunge line is soft and padded with an extra-heavy weight solid brass swivel clip.
The lunge rein features markers for 10m, 15m and 20m circles, which take into account the lower arm of the user. It comes in a hessian storage bag.
Colour: Black
RRP £24.99
Buying in the UK? Purchase here
Shop for a double lunge rein
A double lunge rein helps achieve true engagement of the horse’s back end and a correct way of working without the weight of a rider on the horse’s back. However, it does require a high level of training on the handler’s part in order to do it correctly and safely.
Waldhausen Double Lunge Line 
The rear part of this double lunge line has flat webbing which sits comfortably in the hand, and rotating carabiners attached with leather reinforcement. The front parts are plaited nylon which run easily through the guide pulley (sold separately).
Colour: Black. Length: 18m
RRP €34.95
Buying in the UK? Purchase here
Ships internationally
SHOWMASTER Double Lunge Rein Innovation
This innovative double lunge rein consists of three parts. Thanks to the three snaps and the D-ring in the middle, it can be used as a double lunge rein, long reins and also as a single lunge line.
Colour: Black. Length: 16m
RRP £38.90
Buying in the UK? Purchase here
Imperial Riding Free Riding Double Lunge Line 
This double lunge line is made from a soft cushioned material with rolled cord at each end and trigger clips.
Colour: Black
RRP £29.95
Buying in the UK? Purchase here
Ships internationally
