Bridles

Bridle Use The function of the bridle is to hold the bit in the correct place of the horse’s mouth so that the rider has control without irritating the horse’s mouth. Proper fit of the bridle is important to the comfort of the horse and the effectiveness of the bridle for control of the animal.

Types of English Bridles Snaffle Bridle Weymouth Bridle Pelham Bridle

Snaffle Bridle Simplest form Uses snaffle bit (discussed later)

English Bridles

Weymouth Bridle or Double Bridle The full or Weymouth bridle is also known as a double bridle. Literally has 2 bridles (1 snaffle, 1 curb) The Weymouth bridle includes a snaffle bit, reins, cheek pieces and crownpiece with an additional headstall with brow band, curb bit, curb chain, lip strap and reins placed on top. Should only be used by experienced riders- The curb bit can be very painful if applied with too much pressure or to suddenly (horse can flip over with shock)

Pelham Bridle The Pelham bridle is similar to a snaffle bridle, except that: A Pelham bridle has two sets of reins which attach to the Pelham bit (A combination of a snaffle and curb bit) The Pelham bridle includes a curb chain and lip strap.

Western Typically used with a curb type bit

Western Bridle

Some western bridles do not have a brow band, but instead have an ear band

Hackamore A bitless bridle Can be used to Use pressure on the nose, face, and chin as a way of communicating Can be used to start a green horse on older horses with dental/mouth issues On horses that have become tough mouthed Can be an ineffective tool when not used correctly Frustration for rider because horse doesn’t listen,

Different types of hackamores Bosal (pictured right) Basic hackamore that applies light pressure Mechanical hackamore Uses leverage of a curb chain or shanks for increased pressure on the face (8lbs of pressure on reins= 160lbs pressure on the face) Cannot direct rein, can be difficult to turn a hose, are mostly used when need stopping power

Bridle Selection The type of bridle to use will depend on the style of riding, temperament and training of the horse, and the sensitivity of the horse’s mouth. A stock horse requires a Western bridle. Well trained English horses with sensitive mouth require snaffle bridles. Polo ponies generally require a Pelham bridle.