While managing and keeping the horse in control, there is specific equipment that you’ll need for that. Similarly, the bridle is a part of a horse’s headgear that fits the reins and helps control the animal. However, a bitless horse bridle can be a different element alternatively, and before applying it to its use, you must learn more about the piece!
A bitless bridle is a lot different from traditional bridles. More so, it’s becoming quite a thing among new riders in the present time. The primary reason for its popularity is that it does not force the animal to wear a metal piece that goes into the mouth. In addition, bitless bridles have been accepted in Olympics for jumping, and eventing shows in the game.
What’s the purpose of Bitless Bridle?
As the name suggests, a bitless bridle does not include that mouthpiece that goes in every traditional bridle. In simple words, a bitless bridle is a type of headgear that allows the rider to have command over the animal. More so, instead of putting pressure on the mouth, a bitless bridle puts pressure on the horse’s head.
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To state the difference, a bitless bridle looks the same as a regular bridle. The only way to differentiate between a traditional bridle and a bitless bridle is that the latter does not include a bit. For the animal’s safety, it’s advisable not to use a bitless bridle in a harsh manner. Moreover, using it correctly will not pressure the horse in any way.
Benefits of Bitless Horse Bridle
A bitless bridle is one that doesn’t include any bit that further exhibits pain to the horse’s mouth. Likewise, there are many other benefits of a bitless bridle for the rider and the horse as well. In addition, you just need to be sure that the bridle sits in the correct manner. Moreover, wearing the proper headgear for the riding discipline is essential.
Here are a few of the benefits of using a bitless bridle –
1. Helps Improve Horse’s Physical & Behavioral Issues:
Numerous reports have shown how using a bitless bridle can enhance specific attributes in a horse. When applied to the correct technique of using a bitless bridle, it can improve the following issues in a horse – head shaking, napping, rearing and other behavioural problems.
It’s not essential that every horse requires a bitless bridle; however, most of them feel comfortable without it. Moreover, a bitless bridle was used mainly for horses with physical injury in their mouth. Therefore, it’s comfortable for the horses, and they can be in good mental and physical health with its usage.
2. Horse Becomes Calm:
It is obvious to know that the intense action of a bit can hurt and cause injury inside the horse’s mouth. Furthermore, it will make them irritable and angry over a period of time. However, switching to a bitless bridle will disallow the hurt and pain and relieve the horse’s anxiety and stress.
Likewise, within a few days, you can see your horse getting calmer and happier with the use of a bitless bridle. You can take guidelines from a horse expert or a professional vet for more information on this.
3. Horses become Expressive:
As per the suggestion, using a bitless bridle will make the horse move freely and without any pain. They’ll generally become more expressive towards their rider for proper communication. On the other hand, it’s quite obvious that using a bit interferes with the horse’s balance and movement.
Also, depending upon the type of bitless bridle you are using, it’s easier to conclude the horse’s riding discipline. Thus, there will rarely be any miscommunication once you learn how to use a bitless bridle properly.
4. Pressure is Equally Distributed:
As you may know, using a traditional bridle that consist of a bit will be more painful for the horse. In addition, it doesn’t distribute the pressure from the reins and ends up inside the horse’s mouth. Therefore, the mechanism of a bitless bridle will be softer and more effective for the horse’s riding style.
In short, when a horse feels too much pressure on one area, they do not perform well in the field. Therefore, it will somehow interfere with the rider’s safety and other aspects of horse riding.
Important Note:
“There can be some bitless bridles that may exert more pressure on the horse’s head. Therefore, you must be sure about purchasing the right type of bitless bridle for your horse.”
How does Bitless Bridle work?
If it’s the first time you read about a bitless bridle, know that they are much more feasible than a regular bridle. Now, coming to the actual working of a bitless bridle, here are a few points that’ll give you an exact layout –
- The actual functioning of a bitless bridle is to control the speed and direction of the horse by applying pressure on its head. Furthermore, the harness is in close contact with the horse’s – nose, jaw, chin, and cheeks.
- When using a bitless bridle, the rider must note that the animal will not be able to tolerate intense commands on the bridle. Thus, keep your hand movements a little light and always carry some aid in your saddle bag.
- Please do not put too much pressure on the horse as it may seem that there’s no use for a bit. More so, just put the right amount of force, and it will be efficient for the horse.
- We would advise the riders to use the normal force as they do while riding a horse.
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If you are still using a traditional harness, don’t worry, there’s no change in command while riding the horse. However, unlike conventional bridles, you do not have to release the pressure in the case of a bitless bridle.
Types of Bitless Bridle
Now, coming back to the variety of bitless bridles, you can assume they all work similarly. On a general note, there are four types of bitless bridle. You can go through the details as –
- Hackamore – It is the most convenient form of bitless horse bridle. Moreover, it’s mainly for those riders whose horses can’t bear the pressure of a bit in their mouth. Thus, it’s specific in providing excellent control over speed while also allowing the rider to slow down. In short, hackamore bridles have excellent brakes for sudden changes in action.
- Side-Pull – While talking in terms of giving a mild effect on the horse’s headgear. The side-pull bridle is popular for not causing any discomfort to the horse. While using this bridle, the main force goes onto the horse’s muzzle and does not involve leverage action. Hence, it helps the rider to change directions easily without pulling the rein.
- Bosal – Now, this one directly relates to the noseband as what’s necessary for the horse bridle. It, too, allows the rider to go in speed and make changes without any stoppage. Also, it’s convenient for the horse and the rider.
- Halter – If you are using a halter bridle, it’s also a must to have confidence in your horse. Moreover, it’s the perfect bridle you can use during horse riding. Generally, riding with a halter bridle is quite familiar with a side-pull bridle. You only have to attach the reins to the side rings and just begin your ride!
Final Thoughts:
If you require slight movement, make sure you buy the correct bridle that’s also suitable for the horse. Likewise, there are various options, and they are all perfectly fine. You just have to be sure of what will work for you and keep your horse free from the pressure a bit.
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