Re: RC: Biothane

[Linda Flemmer <bluwolf@earthlink.net>]

Hope Ross wrote:

> What is a biothane?  Can someone describe this to me!  And does it
> come in colors?

Bithane is nylon webbing (any color) that is <exrtruded> with a
poly-vinyl.  It is a solid integrated peice of vinyl & nylon.  Laminated
vinyl/nylon goes by (one) brand name of Oputhane.  Oputhane delaminates
(comes apart) and looks cloudy after a year or so.  Biothane tends not to
do this, but it is still a good idea to seal any cuts or new holes with
heat.

It is strong, bright colors or traditional leather look, and comes in as
many styles as there are folks making it up.  The older original biothane
is slightly stiffer than the new type super-flexible stuff.  I've only
used the original stuff & I love it - no problems with it being too
stiff.  Folks are selling both.

I <like> dunking it in a bucket at the end (or hosing it off while it is
still on my horse).  :-)  It air dries quickly, or wipe it off with a rag
for "instant" success.  I have seen horses caught to objects with
biothane (ie snaps on halter-bridle hooked on things), and it DOES NOT
break easily.  Most manufacturers make a connection that will give if
1000 lbs of horse decides to pull back rather than injure the horse.  The
bithane itself probably won't break.

Beware - all biothane reins get <very> slick when they get wet.  (Sweat,
sponging, etc.)  Either plan to wear gloves, or get some grip put on
them, or get some hybrid for reins (cotton web & biothane, mountain
climbing rope, etc.)

Linda Flemmer
Blue Wolf Ranch
Bruceton Mills, WV


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