Why are there so many different types of bridles?
Horses are living beings with different individual needs. Our main goal as riders is to form a harmonious unit with our beloved four-legged friend and to celebrate successes together. It doesn’t matter whether the success is in competitive sports or a harmonious leisure ride. The bridle is part of the basic equipment – whether it should be a bridle with a bit or a bitless bridle is up to you. The most important thing is that you work well together as a team. Of course, there are different requirements depending on the discipline, and it is important to understand the effects as well as the advantages and disadvantages of the various bridles.
The different types of bridles
1. The Micklem
The Micklem is a real all-rounder. Micklems can be used as a bridle with a bit, a cavesson, or a bitless bridle. They are especially popular for training young horses because they offer several adjustment options. The Micklem 2 Multi Bridle from Horseware Ireland, for example, is a perfect everyday companion and allows an optimal fit for every horse and rider type. The Micklem scores with its anatomically shaped features. The curved shape of the crownpiece and chin strap is designed to reduce pressure on sensitive nerves and allow a more comfortable position of the bit. Additionally, the innovative bit clips can stabilize the bit further. This is especially suitable for restless hands or young horses.
If you want to use the Multi Bridle as a cavesson, you can easily attach your lunge line to the ring on the noseband.
For the bitless bridle, you can unbuckle the bit and then attach the reins to the side rings. With two additional straps, you can adjust and intensify the effect of the bitless bridle.
2. The Kandare
In dressage training, you eventually reach the point: Kandare, yes or no? Primarily, it is used to support higher-level movements and should only be handled by experienced, calm hands. It can have a stronger effect on the horse’s mouth, allowing finer communication between horse and rider. The basic structure resembles a normal bridle with a bit. The difference is that an additional Kandare bit is required, so there are four cheekpieces. You need an underlay bridle, a Kandare bit, and two pairs of reins for the respective aids through the two bits. The underlay bridle should be about 1 cm longer than the Kandare and protrude slightly from the mouth.
The Kandare is very controversial in the riding world due to its sharp effect. If you want to compete in higher dressage classes, you will eventually have to use the Kandare. It is important to carefully consider whether you and your horse are ready for the Kandare. It is best to seek support from a trainer or instructor here.
3. Bitless bridles
Bridles, bits, and bitless riding are topics in the riding world that often lead to heated discussions. Whether a bit belongs in the horse’s mouth remains controversial. Here, too, it is important to assess this debate individually. Think about what feels right for you and your horse. For example, if your horse does not accept a bit and shows dissatisfaction with the bit in its mouth, it may be sensible to consider a bitless bridle. There are many different variants here as well, such as hackamores, mechanical hackamores, and sidepulls. If you are interested in the topic, feel free to check out our story “Bitless and happy: Why more and more riders are switching”.
Now you should have a good overview of the different bridle models. If you haven’t found the perfect bridle yet, we hope we could help you with some tips and information. Feel free to visit our shop – you will surely find something suitable for you and your four-legged friend. Good luck!
