Eight Clydesdales are hitched together to pull the wagon. Two horses travel as alternates. The physical ability of each horse determines its position in the hitch. Each set of harnesses weighs 130 lb. There are several major components to the harness.
Blinders prevent the horse from becoming visually distracted.
The bridle consists of the headpiece, browband, cheek straps, noseband, bit and reins. These allow the driver to direct the team. The reins alone for the eight horses on the hitch can weigh over 40 lb. A martingale prevents the horse from raising its head to avoid the action of the bit and bridle. Collars are individually fitted to each horse.