Photo of a Harness Kicking Strap  
A "kicking strap" or "bucking strap" is an extra harness piece that is used for safety reasons. The strap usually will have a loop in the middle which the backstrap of the harness is slipped through. The kicking strap is placed just in front of the crupper.

If the horse attempts to buck, the weight of the shafts will prevent him from doing so. This strap can prevent a horse from getting a leg over the shaft -- or a similar disaster.

Many drivers discuss this piece of equipment-- but it is difficult to actually find a good photo of one. This photo was provided by Dave McWethy of Camptown Harness. It shows the kicking strap he makes in his shop. You can order one of these straps very reasonably on his website at www.horseharness.com

Thanks to "Camptown Dave"McWethy for sharing this photo for use on our website