With the European Championships well underway, we look at some popular bits you may see in the different riding disciplines:
Popular bits for cross country
This bit – also known as the Ringed Continental or Bubble Gag - is available with three or four cheek rings, in most of the commonly seen mouthpieces, and in several materials. It us often chosen by riders of horses that can be heavy in the hand, as it emulates the effect of draw reins; Dutch gags are best described as a cross between a traditional gag and a Pelham. They aim to help to keep the horse between hand and leg, and in a nicely rounded outline.
The Waterford is a type of mouthpiece consisting of a series of balls across the main part of the bit, designed to encourage the horse to ‘mouth’ the bit and encourage better perception of the rider's aids. It is recommended by many riders whose horses are sensitive, yet strong, and hang on the bit or go on the forehand. It is available with several cheek piece styles, including a hanging cheek. It is also popular as a Nelson Gag (with full cheeks), Balding Gag (with loose ring cheeks) and the Cheltenham Gag (with eggbutt cheeks).
Popular bits for Dressage
This bit was developed in America and has a unique roller in the centre section. The roller provides gentle stimulation to the tongue, which encourages salivation, allowing the acceptance of the bit, therefore the relaxation of the jaw. The roller gives the horses a greater feeling of freedom with the tongue and is often chosen by riders of horses that have a tendency to put their tongue over the bit, or those that have a ‘busy’ mouth.
This bit by Sprenger is double jointed, and features a lozenge link; it is favoured by many dressage riders. It is made from the specialist material Aurigan, and is renowned to offer the rider a soft connection with the horse. Aurigan contains silicon and is nickle free, so it combines the oxidation advantages of copper with maximum strength and durability. The KK Ultra is said to encourage a soft, relaxed jaw, and quick acceptance of the bit and aids.
Popular bits for show jumping
Butterfly Flip
The Butterfly Flip features bit rings in a ‘D’ shape for multiple rein positions; it looks similar to a Kimblewick once in the mouth. The Butterfly Flip gives varying degrees of control, depending on the positioning. It is said to be ideal for horses with sensitive mouths that are still strong and inclined to lean on the bit in the exiting show jumping environment. It has a small amount of leverage.
Wide Port Segundo
The Segundo has a leverage action and works on several of points of control on the horse's head, and also within the mouth. This bit is unusual in that it does not use tongue pressure, as it features a large port, through which the tongue lies. It is said to be good for horses that are strong in mouth, as the horse can’t lean on the bit or get their tongue over it; it is popular with very experienced riders. It is also good for horses with a narrow jaw, or those that find it difficult to lie their tongue down comfortably when a bit is in their mouth.
The Saddlery Shop offers a wide range of bits suitable for all horses and ponies and every discipline. For free bitting advice, email advice@thesaddleryshop.co.uk.
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