Only mane hair is used in the California Classic's 22 foot mecates which are offered in a huge variety of colors, stripes, checks and changing patterns. We sell 6 and 8 strand versions with a standard single self tassel and popper. Don't be talked into buying a rope of or including cow tail hair because it is cheap. It will give you nothing but grief.

Weight is really important to the horse and rider when in the training stages of the snaffle with slobbers or the hackamore. It is critical to understand that weight can be achieved by thick, coarse strands or by increased numbers of well made hair strands. At CC, we ONLY make the latter. We also like the fact that 8 strands can provide many more color pattern options.

 

 

The twist and core are vital in selecting a mecate. Too loose of a twist and your rope will feel great to start, but will not be durable with real use. A mecate should undergo a "break in" period. We don't want reins that flop without "life," but rather maintain enough firmness to telegraph a signal immediately to the horse. Hold the mecate in your hands. Feel the entire rope if you don't know the maker's or company's reputation for properly made ropes. Make certain that it is even and firmly twisted throughout.

One of our customers, trainer Reed Edwards, kindly took the time to gather some of the mane hair for his CC mecates A true student of the CA bridle horse, Reed also weighed and averaged all of his CC mane mecates. Thanks, Reed.

NOTE: Being hand twisted in a variety of temperatures and humidity, our mane mecates may vary slightly in weight.

When it comes to winter riding in moisture, natural ropes will become a little more stiff. Use an old one that flops the rest of the time and save your newer firm mecates for spring through fall. DO NOT use man made fiber ropes on rawhide or leather bosals. They can permanently damage the bosal.

A mecate without a core may be soft in the rider's hands, but it is not going to last. The feel of the rope will not maintain. The heart of the mecate is the core. Those built without cores are very cheaply made.

The prickly hair will wear off with use. If needed, try light gloves. Do NOT cut, burn or sand paper mecates in an effort to remove the hairs. They are integral to the rope and these tactics impede the break in time and the usefulness of the rope.

Make certain that you invest in properly made mecates with plenty of protein rich fiber that are sufficiently twisted. Some fibers are known for stretching, particularly the curly/wavy yak. When sweated or damp, the results can be "interesting" especially used for a cincha. Although a creative use of the animal's soft hair, the yak was not part of the traditional CA vaquero cattle culture.

Don't be fooled: invest in the best gear you can and trade up when possible.