4 Horse Head to Head Trailer: Why the 4 Horse SafeTack Reverse is a Better Option

The 4 Horse SafeTack Reverse Trailer by Double D Trailers offers a modern, safe, and effective solution for transporting multiple horses. This article compares the traditional 4-horse head-to-head trailer with the SafeTack Reverse, showing how this design addresses common issues and provides essential improvements for both horse and handler safety.

What is a 4 Horse Head-to-Head Trailer?

A 4-horse head-to-head trailer is a design allowing four horses to travel in pairs, with two horses facing forward and two facing backward. This design provides individual access to each horse, making it convenient for loading and unloading at multiple stops. A central aisle runs through the trailer, acting as a pathway to each stall and allowing handlers to check on each horse during transit.

How does a head-to-head trailer work?

In a head-to-head trailer, two horses enter through a side door and back into rear-facing stalls, while two more horses load from the rear into forward-facing stalls. This layout leaves the horses positioned “head to head,” with an aisle in the center for access. Separate tack storage may be included, typically at the front of the trailer.

What are the primary uses of a head-to-head trailer?

The primary uses of a head-to-head trailer are for transporting multiple horses over long distances and for equestrian events where easy access to each horse is necessary. The central aisle can also be used as a temporary holding area during events, providing a designated space for grooming and tack adjustments.

Why do horse owners choose head-to-head trailers?

Horse owners often choose head-to-head trailers for their easy access to individual horses, making loading and unloading simpler. This design also appeals to those who frequently make multiple stops, as each horse can be offloaded without disturbing the others.

Common Problems with Traditional 4 Horse Head-to-Head Trailers

While the traditional 4-horse head-to-head trailer design offers access and organization, it has several notable issues that can affect safety, efficiency, and overall usability.

1. Disorganized tack storage

In a head-to-head trailer, tack storage is usually positioned at the front, creating limited space that mixes tack, supplies, and personal items. This setup can result in clutter and damage to sensitive gear, like show attire and tack. In a 4-horse head-to-head trailer, all your equipment—show day clothing and sweaty tack—needs to be stored in the same forward dressing room. This can easily lead to jumbled equipment and stained show attire. This lack of organization can be a major inconvenience and even lead to costly replacements.

2. Increased horse interaction risks

The head-to-head design often lacks head dividers between stalls, increasing the potential for unwanted interactions between horses. Without dividers, horses facing each other can engage in behaviors like biting or kicking, which can cause injuries or stress. To make matters worse, some dealers irresponsibly suggest that these trailers can fit five horses by placing one in the center aisle, as shown in [link to video]. This is extremely dangerous. The center horse lacks dividers or support for balance, unlike in a stock trailer with more space. Surrounded by other horses' heads, the center horse is at increased risk of injury from kicks or bites, especially if the animals don't get along. This practice can lead to horse trailer accidents and equine injuries.

3. Dangerous chest and butt bars

Besides the lack of head dividers, head-to-head trailers rely on simple chest and butt bars to secure horses. While functional, these bars can be hazardous. A limb could get caught over a bar if a horse panics and rears up. This could make your frightened horse even more frantic, scrambling to get free, and causing serious injury.

4. More difficult loading of horses

Loading horses into the front stalls requires careful maneuvering, as the front two horses must walk forward onto the side ramp, angle into position, and back into their rear-facing stalls. This process can be challenging for horses with loading anxiety or those unused to backing into stalls.

Brad Heath, owner of Double D Trailers, shares his thoughts on traditional 4 horse head-to-head trailers:

“I think the [head-to-head trailer] is a dated design, which has been the only solution for handlers needing to haul more than two horses, and needing the ability to access each horse independently.” Brad explains that head-to-head horse trailers are popular with warmblood or large breed horse owners who are afraid that their animals would feel cramped in a conventional 4-horse slant load trailer. “The ‘head to head’ trailer was born out of necessity and has remained available over the years for the simple fact that nothing else ‘better’ has been available.  Today, the 4 horse SafeTack Reverse trailer provides a much better option!”

4 Horse Gooseneck SafeTack Reverse Design: A Safer Alternative to 4 Horse Head-to-Head Trailers

The 4-Horse SafeTack Reverse Trailer solves the common problems of head-to-head trailers while retaining sought-after features. This design prioritizes horse safety, easy towing, and convenience, offering individual horse access for loading and unloading, show day stall conversion, and customization options to comfortably fit large breed horses.

1. Separate Spaces for Tack and Dressing Room

The SafeTack Reverse features a fully enclosed tack compartment at the trailer's rear, keeping tack and grooming supplies separate from living or dressing areas. This organization keeps tack clean and accessible while preventing cross-contamination with personal items.

2. Forward or Reverse Facing Options

Unlike traditional models, the SafeTack Reverse allows for either forward- or rear-facing stalls, giving handlers flexibility based on the horse’s preferences. Studies on horse transport such as those by Dr. Sharon Cregier suggest that rear-facing travel can reduce stress in horses, offering a more natural balance against the vehicle’s motion.

3. Keep Unfriendly Horses Separate

Equipped with tubular head dividers, the SafeTack Reverse trailer effectively separates horses, reducing the chance of biting or kicking. This design helps prevent inter-horse aggression, making it suitable for transporting horses with different temperaments.

4. Shorter Overall Trailer Length Means Easier Towing

The SafeTack Reverse trailer, even when designed for large breeds, is approximately 24 feet in length, making it more maneuverable than a standard head-to-head trailer (typically 28 feet or longer). This shorter length allows for easier navigation and parking in confined spaces.

5. Safer Loading and Unloading with the SafeTack Reverse

The walk-on, walk-off design in the SafeTack Reverse eliminates the need for horses to back out, making loading and unloading straightforward. Horses can enter from the rear or side ramp, walk to their stall, and unload forward, reducing stress.

6. Enhanced Head-to-Head Features

The 4 Horse Gooseneck SafeTack Reverse trailers, like head-to-head models, offer the following.

• Individual Horse Access: Multiple side doors and ramps allow access to each horse for easy loading and unloading.
• Show Day Stall: Convert a stall into a show day prep area by swinging a partition.
• Large Breed Transport: Customize your trailer with extra width or height to comfortably fit large breed horses.

Additional Safety Features of the 4 Horse Gooseneck SafeTack Reverse Trailer

The SafeTack Reverse includes several additional safety features to protect horses during transit.

• SafeKick Wall System and SafeBump Roof for Enhanced Safety

The SafeKick Wall System absorbs impact from kicking, protecting both the horse and trailer. The SafeBump Roof prevents injury if a horse rears and also helps regulate temperature for comfort.

• Z-Frame Technology for Structural Durability

The SafeTack Reverse uses Z-Frame technology, which combines lightweight construction with durability. This frame structure offers corrosion resistance and adds stability, ensuring longevity and reducing maintenance.

• Insulated Dressing Room for User Convenience

An insulated dressing room offers comfort for the handler, providing a dedicated space for changing, storing supplies, and sheltering from weather during stops.

• V-Nose Design for Improved Aerodynamics and Efficiency

The V-nose design of the trailer reduces drag, enhancing fuel efficiency. This shape also provides extra storage space at the front.

• Tubular Head Dividers Safer for Horse Separation

The tubular head dividers keep horses safely separated, preventing unwanted contact and reducing stress during transit.

4 Horse Head to Head Trailer: Common Concerns and Questions

The following are frequently asked questions about traditional and SafeTack Reverse trailers.

How long is a 4-horse head-to-head trailer?

A 4-horse head-to-head trailer typically measures around 28 feet, while the SafeTack Reverse design is shorter, measuring approximately 24 feet for easier towing and maneuverability.

Are straight load or slant load designs better for horses?

While both designs have advantages, slant load trailers, like the SafeTack Reverse, often offer better space utilization and reduce the risk associated with butt and chest bars found in straight load models.

What towing vehicles are compatible with a SafeTack Reverse trailer?

The SafeTack Reverse is compatible with gooseneck towing vehicles that meet the weight and towing capacity requirements for a 4-horse trailer, such as heavy-duty trucks from Ford, Chevy, and Dodge.

Does Double D Trailers offer customization options?

Yes, Double D Trailers offers extensive customization options for their trailers, including stall sizes, layout adjustments, and safety features to suit individual needs.

What warranties and certifications back the SafeTack Reverse?

The SafeTack Reverse trailer comes with a manufacturer’s warranty and certifications for structural integrity and safety compliance, ensuring quality and reliability.

Why the 4 Horse Gooseneck SafeTack Reverse is the Best Choice for Horse Transport

The SafeTack Reverse stands out due to its advanced safety features, customization, and user-friendly design.

How does SafeTack Reverse address ventilation and horse comfort?

The SafeTack Reverse includes large windows and a ventilation system to improve airflow and maintain comfort, reducing travel-related stress in horses.

Why is flooring material critical for safety and durability?

The trailer uses Rumber flooring, a durable, anti-slip material that provides stability and prevents slipping during transit, unlike traditional rubber mats that can wear out over time.

What makes the emergency exit features stand out in this model?

The SafeTack Reverse offers multiple exits, allowing handlers to unload horses quickly in emergencies, with side ramps for easier forward exit, unlike head-to-head trailers that limit access.

How does the SafeTack Reverse meet horse-owner feedback and expectations?

Based on feedback from horse owners and transport experts, the SafeTack Reverse addresses common transport issues, emphasizing safety, ease of use, and horse welfare with features tailored for real-world needs.

Choose the SafeTack Reverse for Safer, Smarter Horse Transport

The 4 Horse Gooseneck SafeTack Reverse by Double D Trailers is a practical and advanced solution that prioritizes horse and handler safety. Its innovative design addresses common issues found in traditional trailers, offering enhanced safety, ease of use, and flexibility. The SafeTack Reverse ensures your equine partners arrive relaxed and ready to perform.

Are these features what you're looking for to transport your four horses (or more!)? Contact us today to explore customization options and significantly improve your horse transport experience.