Horse Bridle Types
The different equestrian riding styles utilize different types of bridles, just as they use different saddles. An integral part of horse tack, a bridle is used to direct the horse’ movement. A headstall, bit and a set of reins are the basic components of a bridle. bitless bridle The most complicated of bridles is the double bridle which has both two bits and two sets of reins. Still others known as bitless bridles or hackamores use no bit, instead relying on a noseband to control the horse.
A metal rod that fits into the horse’s mouth, a bit is used to steer the horse. Attached to either end of the bit, the reins are dual leather straps held in the rider’s hands. The headstall is the assortment of connected leather straps and buckles that secure it to the horse’s head and keep the bit in its mouth.
Horseback riding styles are separated into two main categories: the English style and the western style. The English style employs three basic types of bridle. The simplest, with one bit and one set of reins is the snaffle bridle. safety stirrups This is the most used type of bridle in the English style. More involved is the Pelham bridle. The Pelham bit is a singular device, but there are two sets of reins – one for the snaffle end and one for the curb end. The most complicated type in the English style is the double or Weymouth bridle. This type uses two bits. The two bits are known variously as the small snaffle and curb or the bradoon and Weymouth bit. horse nutrition Two sets of reins are used – one for each bit.
Most western bridles with bits have no noseband, nor do they have a browband. A small strap of leather that wraps around one or both ears of the horse is used to secure the headstall. Likewise, only one set of reins is used to control western bridles. Bitless bridles or hackamores do, however, use a noseband. Instead of using a bit to steer the horse, the noseband puts pressure on the animal’s face which in turn gives the rider directional control.
Using Twisteez™ Wire to make a horse bridle brow band.