Mecates (pronounced /məˈkɑːtiː/) are reins that were originally derived from early buckaroos (vaqueros; a word derived from vaca, which is Spanish for cow). The length of rein is usually 22 feet for the average horse. The part that is not used for the rein section is tied to the horn, or tucked securely (but not tied!) in your belt. This is your lead rope that is very useful after dismounting and for doing groundwork. Never tie your horse by this lead rope though; he could hurt his mouth and your equipment if he pulled back. These reins have a leather popper on one end (the left side; the lead rope side), and a pineapple knot on the right side. The knot, with fringe on the end, keeps the rein from sliding out of the slobber strap. Two of the many pros of having reins of such length are 1. You have a built-in lead rope. 2. You can adjust them by easily sliding the lead rope section through the slobber strap forwards or backwards, to make your reins longer or shorter.
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