Understanding Horse Bits: Types, Uses, and Best Options

Understanding the function of different designs of horse bits is essential for any horse owner. Horse bits are a crucial part of horse tack, providing enhanced communication between the rider and the horse. The right bit in horses can greatly impact the horse's comfort and responsiveness to the rider, improving the horse and rider relationship.

Common Types of Horse Bits

Snaffle Bits

• Horse Snaffle Bit: One of the most commonly used designs of bits, snaffle bits can be either a loose ring snaffle bit of a fixed cheek snaffle bit. Snaffle bits use direct pressure and are usually seen as gentle. They are often the first bit used when training horses.  Loose ring bits can improve the horse's self-carriage whilst a fixed cheek snaffle can teach the horse to develop a more consistent feel.

Pelham Bits

• Pelham Horse Bit: Combining elements of a snaffle and a curb bit in one, the pelham offers more leverage and control. It’s often used in show jumping and eventing. Pelham bits are considered to be strong and are frequently used for horses who are strong in a snaffle bit.

Kimblewick Bits

• Kimblewick Horse Bit (sometimes called Kimberwick Horse Bit): These bits provide a moderate amount of leverage and are great for horses that need a bit more control than a snaffle offers but less than a pelham. Kimblewick bits are quite popular in ponies who need more control than a snaffle but not quite as much as a pelham horse bit.

Tom Thumb Bits

• Tom Thumb Horse Bit: A popular gag bit often used for faster work where the horse is adrenaline-fuelled, this bit provides more leverage and control, ideal for established horses that are well-trained but need greater control than a snaffle bit.  Tom Thumb bits are quite neat in the mouth so can be an option for horses who are quite petite in their build but need a strong bit.

Waterford Bits

• Waterford Bits for Horses: Waterford horse bits feature a broken mouthpiece which can help prevent horses from grabbing the bit and hanging on the rider's hands. The broken mouthpiece of a Waterford teaches the horse self-carriage and makes the horse lighter in the rider's hands.

Chifney Bits

• Chifney Horse Bit: This anti-rearing bit is used for in-hand training and handling, especially useful for strong or unruly horses. The Chifney horse bit is frequently used for racehorses and stallions.  Some handlers will load their horses using a Chifney bit.

Wilkie Bits

• Wilkie Bit for Horses: Offers more control with less severe action, making it a versatile choice for many horses. Wilkie bits are often the first step up from a snaffle for young riders before moving into gag bits.

Brands of Horse Bits

Sprenger Bits

Sprenger offers a range of handmade, quality bits, manufactured in Germany. Sprenger has designed their horse bits for optimum fit and performance, working with leading riders to develop new designs and materials for improved functionality. Sprenger offers a range of horsebits made from Stainless Steel but also a range made from Sensogan. Sensogan has been developed as an improvement to traditional bit materials and offers:

• Enhanced Oxidation and Taste thanks to a higher copper content compared to traditional materials, which encourages increased salivation in horses. This results in a more responsive and comfortable mouth, aiding better communication between the rider and horse.
• Manganese Inclusion: The addition of manganese helps prevent the oxidation of the copper, maintaining the bit’s appearance and functionality for a longer period. Manganese also plays a crucial role in muscle function and energy metabolism, which can benefit the horse’s overall relaxation and acceptance of the bit.
• The inclusion of zinc in Sensogan enhances its strength and durability. Bits made from Sensogan are less likely to wear out quickly, ensuring a longer lifespan and maintaining their effectiveness over time.

Neue Schule Bits

Neue Schule bits are renowned for their innovative design and exceptional quality, crafted to enhance communication between horse and rider. Made with advanced materials like Salox Gold, these bits ensure optimal comfort and responsiveness.  Salox Gold is an innovative alloy that combines high thermal conductivity with a warm, soft feel, ensuring the bit quickly reaches mouth temperature for enhanced comfort. Its unique composition encourages salivation, promoting a more responsive and relaxed horse.  The Neue Schule bit range offers a wide variety of snaffle bits and gag bits for all disciplines.

Understanding Horse Bits and Their Uses

Choosing the right bit for a horse takes time and experience. Bits for horses vary not only in type but also in their specific uses. Whether you’re dealing with a young horse, an established competition horse, or a strong hunt horse, understanding which bit will be most effective for getting the best out of your horse is crucial. It’s important to consult with knowledgeable sources and consider the horse's comfort and training level.