Bridles

Choosing a horse bridle: headpiece, noseband, size

The headpiece carries the weight of the bridle on the poll, just behind the ears. On an anatomic model, such as the HKM Anatomic or the Dyon, it is cut away around the base of the ears and spreads the pressure over a wider area. It is the first bridle to try on a horse that is sensitive at the poll or does not like being bridled.

Which noseband?

The cavesson noseband, a simple leather band above the bit, suits most horses. The flash adds a lower strap that passes under the bit and limits how far the mouth opens. As for the grackle, or Mexican, noseband, it crosses over the nose and steadies the bit on a horse that crosses his jaw. If the bridle you like does not have the right one, change it: the nosebands sold separately have their own headpiece and fit most bridles.

Size and adjustment

Bridles are generally sold in Pony, Cob and Full, sometimes X-Full. Sizing varies from one brand to another: the most reliable approach is to measure your horse's current bridle, if it fits well. Note the length of the headpiece and cheekpieces, from one bit ring to the other over the poll, the width of the browband and the circumference of the noseband.

Once fitted, the bit forms one or two wrinkles at the corners of the lips. Two fingers fit between the noseband and the nose, a fist between the throatlash and the jaw. The browband does not pull the headpiece against the ears.

Care and spare parts

Rinse the bit after every session. The leather is cleaned with a barely damp sponge and glycerine soap, then conditioned from time to time, especially at the buckles and keepers, where it breaks first.

A buckle that gives way or a split cheekpiece can be replaced individually: see our bridle accessories. Reins are not always supplied with the bridle. Check the product page and, if needed, choose a pair from our leather or rubber reins.