Which piece of equipment is commonly associated with controlling and guiding horses?

The halter is commonly used for controlling and guiding horses, making it the correct choice in this context. A halter is a piece of equipment that fits around a horse's head and is attached to a lead rope, allowing a handler to direct the horse's movements, whether on the ground or while training. It is primarily designed for handling and leading horses safely and effectively, serving as a fundamental tool in various equine activities, including grooming, loading the horse into a trailer, and managing it in various situations.

While the bridle, saddle, and rider's hat can all play important roles in horseback riding and handling, their primary uses differ. The bridle is used for riding, allowing the rider to communicate with the horse through the bit in the horse’s mouth. The saddle provides support and comfort for both the rider and the horse during rides, while the rider's hat is primarily a safety accessory without any direct functional role in controlling a horse.