rider and horse

The players ride horses whose manes are shaved and tails plaited to avoid catching; the players also change horses at every chukker (period).

saddle

Somewhat curved unit that is made mostly of leather; it is set on the horse’s back for the rider to sit on.

shin boot

Equipment placed around the cannon of the horse’s leg to protect it from injury.

knee pad

Hard leather piece of equipment that protects the rider’s knee.

martingale

Strap that is connected to the noseband to prevent the horse from throwing its head back; this prevents blows to its head during abrupt stops.

bit

Device that is inserted in the horse’s mouth; the rider steers the horse using the reins, which in turn move the bit in the horse’s mouth.

noseband

Part of the bridle that runs around the head above the nostrils; it prevents the horse from opening its mouth and losing the bit.

helmet

Rigid piece of equipment that protects the rider’s head; it usually has a protective grille.

polo pony

Small horse that is bred and schooled for polo; calm and docile, it can start, stop and change directions very quickly.

shaft

Long part of the mallet that is usually made of bamboo and has a fixed head at the end; it can be rigid or flexible, depending on the player’s preference.

head

Usually cigar-shaped piece of hardwood; the player strikes the ball with it.

mallet

Part consisting of a shaft and a head that is used by the player to hit the ball along the ground; it must be held in the right hand.

bell boot

Usually rubber item of equipment that covers the horse’s hoof to prevent injury.

ball

White sphere of wood or plastic with a diameter of 3 to 3.5 in.