Horse Bits

Learns more about horse bits...

The bit is a crucial element of your tack. It is through the bit that you communicate with your horse and so it is important to make the right choice. There are a daunting array of options and finding the right bit can be a matter of trial and error. Eventually you will get to know your horse better and this will narrow down the number of styles that you need to consider. Your choice of bit will also depend on the riding discipline that you favour.

At Equi Supermarket we have chosen an extensive range of bits from the impressive Shires Equestrian collection. The Shires range features high quality pieces which are reasonably priced and so these bits represent outstanding value for money.

Snaffle bits

We offer Pelham bits, snaffle bits, eggbutt snaffles and Dutch gags. We also feature French link snaffle bits and French link hanging cheek bits and much more. Our range includes bits for both horses and ponies and so we are sure to feature the perfect bit for your mount. You should also consider investing in the excellent Gold Label Bit Butter which softens the corners of your horse’s mouth after a long sessions with the bit.

What are Snaffle Bits and How do they Work?

Many of us will learn to ride with a snaffle bit, whether we ride English or Western style. It is the most common type of bit, consisting of a bit mouthpiece with a ring on either side. There are various sorts of snaffles, however, the structure is basically the same for all. The action in the horse's mouth is very similar. Snaffle bits are relatively mild bits, in comparison to those that have additional wire wrapping and other variations that are that can be harsher on the horse's mouth.

Two loose ring snaffle bits and an eggbutt snaffle bit

Most horses go pretty comfortably in a jointed hollow mouth snaffle. It is used with bit guards so that his lips aren't pinched whilst you are riding. Even if you don't begin using snaffles, there's a very good chance that you will do at some point during your riding education. Snaffles are usually the very first bit that a horse will carry. Many will be ridden throughout their whole lives with a snaffle bit.

The Action of Snaffle Bits

It can be useful to know how snaffle bits work so that you can learn how to hold the reins correctly and avoid being either too hard or too ineffectual on your horse's mouth. Whilst it's true that the basic action of these bits is the same, you may need to try a few in order to find one that your loyal companion is most comfortable with. Don't be surprised if the task of choosing the right bits takes longer than you expected.

When you pull the reins, pressure is applied to the bars of your horse's mouth (the area of the gums without teeth). The bit should sit comfortably here, just forward of the grinding teeth. Sometimes, if a horse has trouble carrying a bit, its small teeth (referred to as ) may need to be extracted, or a bit seat created.

How the Horse Reacts

The snaffle bits apply pressure to the bars of your horse's mouth. No pressure is felt anywhere else on their head, and no leverage occurs, as it does with curb bits. When you pull the reins back in a straight manner, the horse will understand that equal pressure on the sides of their mouth means to come to a halt. Similarly, if you pull the reins to the right, and pressure is applied to the right bar, they are to turn right. Of course, a pull to the left means they are to turn left.

A Variety of Snaffles

There are a wide variety of snaffles on the market. They can be hollow (great for reducing the weight that the horse must bear), flexible, twisted, jointed with links, have rollers or keys, be oval or squared, or have a combination of joints and shapes. Different metals and materials are used in order to encourage a horse to produce saliva. Synthetics such as copper, vulcanite and sweet iron are frequently used. Some bits, which are often used for teaching a young horse how to hold the bit properly, are flavoured.

Are Pelham Bits Harsh?

If your horse is strong and you find that you are struggling to exert sufficient control, then using Pelham bits could be your solution. This type of bit gives riders a mechanical advantage as it is possible to exert more pressure. However, this bit is suited only to experienced riders its lever action means that in the wrong hands too much pressure is applied, and it would become harsh on the horse’s mouth.

What are Pelham Bits?

Pelham bits are designed to function in a similar way to a double bridle but with the Pelham, the horse will only have one mouthpiece in its mouth. The Pelham combines the action of a snaffle bit and the curb action of a Weymouth and comes as straight bars and jointed. It exerts pressure on the horse’s mouth and its chin. Some horses react well to a Pelham, others dislike them intensely!

This type of bit features two sets of rings and so is used with two sets of reins. The lever action means that the reins attached to the lower or curb ring exert more force on the horse’s mouth than the reins attached to the upper or snaffle rings. Riders should be aware that the forces exerted on the horse here are up to three times stronger than they can feel in their hands. For this reason it is best to ride with the snaffle reigns below the curb reins in your hands so that you primarily use the less forceful reins.

How to Use a Pelham with a Single Rein

If your horse performs well in Pelham bits but you do not wish to ride using two reins then there is another option. You can use roundings to bridge the snaffle rings and curb rings. Roundings are basically leather loops to which you attach a single rein. Using a single rein in this way largely negates the extra control you can achieve with this bit but is a good solution if your horse happens to be comfortable with the bit.

The Curb Chain

Pelham bits also feature a curb chain which sits under the horse’s chin when the bit is in place. When you pull back on the reins attached to the curb rings, this chain applies pressure to the chin. Care should be taken when fitting the bit to ensure that this chain is unwound and lies flat against the horse. When at rest the chain should appear slack. It should only apply pressure to the horse when you pull on the reins.

Pelham bits can be used in most riding disciplines but is not permitted for use in dressage. It gives the experienced rider the control they need if their horse is headstrong. It effectively gives rider’s more powerful brakes! But it is all too easy to exert too much pressure on the horse’s mouth. For this reason the Pelham is a bit for experienced riders who can use the double reins with the necessary finesse.

More than just a horse bit shop

Don’t forget to take a look at our excellent range of bridles too. We also offer an outstanding collection of equestrian clothing, safety gear and horse feeds and supplements your horse needs to stay happy and healthy. With our extensive range and low prices you should make Equi Supermarket your first port of call for all of your equestrian needs.