A flexible omnidirectionally reflective horse lead has a central portion,
and mechanical attachment means to accommodate a bridal bit ring. The
lead reflects an incoming light beam from a walker or horseback rider
back in the direction from which it emanated, preventing dangerous
encounters during dusk or nighttime hours. The omnidirectionally
reflective elements may be incorporated in a horse harness, or in a
halter suitable for horses roaming in a paddock or field. The reflective
elements are created by surrounding a central braided rope of nylon or
polyethylene fibers with a cylindrically braided reflective sleeve. The
braided reflective sleeve is composed of narrow width reflective strips
having a show surface with a flexible nylon retroreflective sheet sewn
thereto. Reflectivity is achieved by thermally bonding corner cube or
microsphere retroreflectors to a flexible polymeric sheet. Due to its
braided construction, the reflective elements reflect light
omnidirectionally over a large angle of acceptance, illuminating the
horse harness or halter. An improved measure of safety is thereby
provided for both the horse and the horseback rider.