First, the Basics
Why do we even use bits? Couldn’t we just do without them? Basically, it is possible to ride without a bit – #staytuned, we’ll cover that in our next blog post. Still, the bit is an important tool to give your horse subtle signals and enable precise communication. Different types of bits have different effects and offer you a wide range of options, tailored to the needs and training level of your horse. However, it’s important to emphasize that the correct use of bits requires some experience and sensitivity. If bits are used improperly or don’t fit well, they can cause discomfort for your horse. For this reason, it’s important to inform yourself thoroughly before buying. So feel free to read on and discover the multifaceted world of bits with us!
Trust equestrian – “choose the power of innovation”
Trust equestrian constantly works on new and innovative bit designs for you and your horse. Developed and made in the Netherlands, Trust focuses on the best materials and highest quality. The brand relies on anatomically shaped bits that adapt to the horse’s mouth and distribute pressure better. A special feature and unique selling point of the manufacturer are the Sweet-Iron Bits. They are made of iron and colored blue. When they come into contact with moisture, surface rust forms that tastes sweet and naturally stimulates your horse’s saliva production and chewing activity.
The Agony of Choice: Which Bit Suits You and Your Horse?
Single-jointed or double-jointed?
A single-jointed bit consists of the side rings and two shanks that are flexibly connected in the middle. With rein aids on both sides, it acts on the bars and the tongue of your horse; with rein aids on one side only, it acts on the respective bar. This allows you to give very precise aids. Your horse can briefly counteract the pressure by pressing the bit with its tongue against the palate. You don’t have to worry about the feared “nutcracker effect,” where the bit lifts, presses against the palate, and pinches the bars. This has long been disproven by studies. This effect can only occur if the bit doesn’t fit, for example, if it’s too large or too thick.
A double-jointed bit differs from the single-jointed by an olive-shaped piece in the middle. It also acts on the tongue and bars of your horse. Thanks to the two joints, it adapts better to the horse’s mouth and surrounds the tongue. This means it lies more quietly in the mouth but can pinch the tongue under strong rein pressure. Your horse has no way to relieve the pressure of the bit here.
Loose Ring Snaffle
One of the best-known bits is the Loose Ring Snaffle. It has continuous rings and therefore only applies pressure to the tongue and lower jaw when the rein is pulled. The movable rings absorb an unsteady or inexperienced rider’s hand, and your horse can escape the bit’s pressure by lifting its tongue. Thus, Loose Ring Snaffles are generally very versatile and suitable for most horses and all training levels.
Eggbutt Bit
The bit rings on the Eggbutt Bit are fixed firmly to the mouthpiece, which additionally frames your horse. Because of the direct attachment of the rings, this bit lies especially quietly in the horse’s mouth, and rein aids are transmitted immediately. If your horse tends to break out over the shoulder or plays a lot with a Loose Ring Snaffle, feel free to try an Eggbutt Bit! If you also want to stimulate your horse’s chewing activity, combined with the advantages of an Eggbutt Bit, Trust equestrian offers the “Eggbutt Snaffle Sweet Iron Brass Rings” with movable rings on the mouthpiece, which can also help with tongue problems.
Mullen Mouth Bits
Mullen Mouth Bits come in various shapes and materials. They apply even pressure on your horse’s tongue. Due to the straight shape, less pressure is applied to the edges of the tongue than with the previously presented bits. Working on flexion and bending, as well as one-sided rein aids, are not possible with Mullen Mouth Bits, which is why they belong only in experienced rider hands. If you have a rather strong horse that, for example, resists your aids when approaching a jump, the Mullen Mouth Bit might be the right choice for you.
Three-Ring Bit
Three-Ring Bits are extremely versatile and flexible thanks to the various options for rein attachment. The special feature is that the mouthpiece can move freely within the ring, allowing independent increase of pressure on the poll without increasing pressure on the tongue. This property is especially advantageous if you have a spirited or strong horse. With a Three-Ring Bit, you have more options to find the optimal setting for your horse and thus achieve better communication while riding.
Pelham and Underlay Snaffle
The Pelham bridle consists of a Pelham bit and an underlay snaffle. The underlay snaffle should correspond to the standard snaffle and be fastened the same way. The Pelham bit lies slightly lower in your horse’s mouth. Since the mouth is narrower there, you should choose the Pelham about half to a whole centimeter smaller than the underlay snaffle.
Make sure that the side parts of the Pelham end at the corners of the mouth to avoid blockages or twisting, and choose a Pelham that allows space for the tongue and does not press into the palate area. The Pelham acts on the tongue, lower bars, poll, and lower jaw. It is therefore one of the bits with greater effect and belongs only in experienced hands.
Ready, Set, Go!
As you can see, if you decide to use a bit, there are many different models to choose from. Feel free to check out the various Trust bits in our shop and find the perfect #gamechanger for you and your horse!
