Krause Mane-Hair Mecates

Horse mane-hair mecates are widely used in the California-vaquero tradition. Mecates are used on both snaffle bits and hackamores. A horse responds to the feel of the horse hair on their neck much better than to other materials. The traditional material and patterns also look exceptionally good on our horses.
Doug Krause makes a high-quality line of mane-hair mecates for the everyday horseman and also makes his superior-quality line of 100X mecates described below. 

Krause 100X mane hair mecates are known to horsemen and collectors alike to be among the best made hair ropes available today.  Now in an exclusive offering, Ricotti Saddle Company of Clements, California is proud to introduce the Krause 100X mecates. These new 100X mecates have been designed with the true hackamore horseman in mind.

Beginning with the huge inventory of mane hair at Krause's, only the very finest hair is hand-picked for use in making these superior mecate ropes. The selected hair is put through processes of cleaning and treating, then it is sorted into the numerous hues of color that are used to make the distinctive color patterns and combinations in this exceptional line.

The actual twisting of the 100X mecates is done to Doug's exacting specifications. This ensures a mecate that has a firm twist, good body and yet a very soft hand. These fine mecates are produced in the sizes most preferred by horsemen, which are a 5/8” and a 1/2" diameter made of six strands.  Designed to meet the requirements of refined feel for even the most discriminating hackamore reinsman, the Krause 100X mecate is the ultimate hair rope.

Krause 100X mecates are made today in our Clements, California shop and available in limited supply exclusively through Ricotti Saddle Company. 

Krause Mohair Mecates

Today's modern horseman also appreciates the look and feel of mohair mecates made by Doug Krause.  These excellent 100% twisted mohair ropes are made in the same sizes and colors as horsehair ropes.  They are made with a traditional look, feel, and pattern.  Color selection is slightly different and some of the colors result in crisper patterns.  These mecates are particularly attractive in the show arena. 

Call Doug today at 1-800-742-6884 for your ideal mecate.

Wholesale or special-order mecate orders or inquiries can be made directly to Doug by e-mailing mecates@aol.com .
 

About Doug Krause

Doug Krause is a native of Idaho who has also lived in northern Colorado, southern Wyoming, and now lives in Clements in central California.

In 1973 Doug began braiding, which he incorporates into much of his work today.  In 1981, Doug began a four-year saddle apprenticeship under master saddlemaker T. J. Holmes. Doug purchased T. J. Holmes’ Cheyenne, Wyoming shop in 1985.  In 1990 Doug moved to Eaton, Colorado.  And in 2005, Doug moved to Clements where he lives today.  In 1995, Doug purchased the mane hair rope factory belonging to Bob Mills, better known as "Blind Bob," and continues producing high quality rope products.

Doug has been awarded Best of Show at the Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko, Nevada in 1998 and the Will Rogers Award--Hitcher/Braider of the Year, Academy of Western Artists, 2001.

Ricotti Saddle Company is proud to have Doug as one of our saddlemakers.  He brings his own background and flavor to blend into the Ricotti tradition of fine quality.  Doug has made the move to California to become involved in the California Vaquero tradition that is exemplified by Rick Ricotti's high-quality California-Made saddles and gear. He is most inspired by the work of fellow makers and enjoys being able to discuss trends, problems, and solutions with other craftsman. He finds that the best leather workers are always willing to share ideas and improvements.