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
thermally bonded to a flexible polymeric sheet with attached corner cube
or microsphere retroreflectors. 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.