Best Tow Bar for Horse Trailer

ByEquineathon

When hauling horses, safety is everything. A reliable tow vehicle and a strong trailer are only part of the equation—the connection between the two is just as critical. That’s where a high-quality tow bar or hitch system comes in. The right tow bar ensures a secure link, smooth towing, and less stress on both your vehicle and your horses. In this guide, we’ll explore the best tow bars for horse trailers, what features to look for, and which models provide the safest and most reliable towing experience.

Quick Picks

Buyer’s Guide: What to Look for in a Horse Trailer Tow Bar

Not all tow bars are created equal. Here’s what matters most when towing horses:

  • Weight Rating: Choose a tow bar rated well above your fully loaded trailer’s weight (including horses and gear).
  • Adjustability: Adjustable drop/rise hitches help keep your trailer level for safer towing.
  • Durability: Look for heavy-duty steel or forged designs that can handle constant stress.
  • Compatibility: Ensure your tow bar matches your trailer’s coupler size (commonly 2” or 2-5/16”).
  • Safety Features: Extra hooks or built-in sway control can add another layer of protection.
  • Ease of Use: Quick adjustments and interchangeable balls make towing multiple trailers more convenient.

Detailed Product Reviews

CURT 45900 Adjustable Tow Hitch with Dual Ball

Who it’s for: Horse owners needing a versatile, heavy-duty tow bar for different trailers and load heights.

  • Key Benefits: 14,000 lbs GTW; adjustable 6” drop/rise; 2” and 2-5/16” dual-ball design.
  • Pros: Very strong, highly adjustable, works for multiple trailers.
  • Cons: Heavier than fixed hitches; higher cost than basic models.

Final Verdict: Best overall tow bar for safety and versatility. Check CURT Adjustable Hitch.

Reese Towpower Tri-Ball Hitch with Hook

Who it’s for: Budget-conscious owners who tow different trailers occasionally.

  • Key Benefits: Three ball sizes (1-7/8”, 2”, 2-5/16”); built-in tow hook; 10,000 lbs capacity.
  • Pros: Affordable, multi-use, easy to switch ball sizes.
  • Cons: No height adjustment; not as strong as premium models.

Final Verdict: A solid budget choice for versatility at a low price. See Reese Towpower.

B&W Tow & Stow Adjustable Trailer Hitch

Who it’s for: Premium buyers wanting the best balance of strength, durability, and convenience.

  • Key Benefits: Adjustable height; stow-away design; available up to 14,500 lbs GTW.
  • Pros: Premium quality, easy to store, corrosion-resistant finish.
  • Cons: More expensive than most hitches.

Final Verdict: The premium choice for serious haulers. Check B&W Tow & Stow.

Andersen Rapid Hitch Adjustable Ball Mount

Who it’s for: Owners who want lightweight adjustability without sacrificing strength.

  • Key Benefits: Aircraft-grade aluminum; adjustable height; 2” and 2-5/16” ball options; 10,000 lbs GTW.
  • Pros: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, easy to adjust.
  • Cons: Not as rugged as steel hitches.

Final Verdict: Great for frequent haulers who want quick adjustments. View Andersen Hitch.

Weigh Safe Adjustable Trailer Hitch with Built-in Scale

Who it’s for: Owners who want precision weight distribution for safer towing.

  • Key Benefits: Adjustable drop/rise; built-in tongue weight scale; up to 15,000 lbs GTW.
  • Pros: Enhances safety, easy to read tongue weight, premium build.
  • Cons: Higher price; heavier than standard models.

Final Verdict: The best hitch for weight-conscious haulers. Check Weigh Safe Hitch.

GEN-Y Mega-Duty Adjustable Drop Hitch

Who it’s for: Owners with heavy-duty trucks hauling large horse trailers.

  • Key Benefits: Up to 21,000 lbs GTW; multiple adjustment holes; extreme-duty construction.
  • Pros: Extremely strong, versatile, built for serious towing.
  • Cons: Very heavy; overkill for smaller trailers.

Final Verdict: The toughest option for the biggest rigs. See GEN-Y Hitch.

Comparison Table

Model GTW Capacity Adjustable Best For Price Range
CURT 45900 14,000 lbs Yes (6”) All-around towing $$$$
Reese Towpower Tri-Ball 10,000 lbs No Budget versatility $$
B&W Tow & Stow 14,500 lbs Yes Premium buyers $$$$$
Andersen Rapid Hitch 10,000 lbs Yes Lightweight adjustability $$$$
Weigh Safe Hitch 15,000 lbs Yes Weight monitoring $$$$$
GEN-Y Mega-Duty 21,000 lbs Yes Heavy-duty rigs $$$$$

FAQ Section

  • What size tow bar do I need for a horse trailer? Most horse trailers require at least a 10,000–14,000 lbs GTW-rated tow bar, depending on size and load.
  • Is an adjustable hitch necessary? Yes—keeping your trailer level improves safety, handling, and horse comfort.
  • Should I choose steel or aluminum? Steel offers maximum strength; aluminum is lighter and corrosion-resistant.
  • What’s a tongue weight scale? It measures the downward force on your hitch—critical for balanced, safe towing.
  • Do I need sway control? For bumper-pull horse trailers, sway control systems are highly recommended for added stability.

Conclusion

A secure, well-built tow bar is the backbone of safe horse hauling. For the best overall performance, the CURT 45900 Adjustable Hitch offers strength and versatility. For budget buyers, the Reese Towpower Tri-Ball provides solid functionality at a low price. And for premium hauling, the B&W Tow & Stow or Weigh Safe Hitch deliver top-tier features. If you’re pulling heavy rigs, the GEN-Y Mega-Duty is built for the job. No matter your budget or trailer size, choosing the right tow bar means safer travels for you and your horses. Shop the best tow bars for horse trailers today and tow with confidence.