Bridles Bridle Use The function of the bridle

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 � The only be used by experienced riders- 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 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 � Uses hackamore leverage of a curb chain or shanks for increased pressure on the face (8 lbs of pressure on reins= 160 lbs 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.