A Pelham bit is a type of bit that includes a curb chain and combines influences from both snaffle and curb bits, providing control via direct pressure and leverage.
Horse riding is an art that requires precise control and communication with the horse. For equestrians who find a double bridle setup inconvenient, yet deem a simple snaffle bit inadequate, Pelham bits can come as a unique and efficient alternative.
An Innovative Hybrid Design: The Genesis of Pelham Bits
Pelham bits have originated from the fusion of a snaffle and a curb bit, forming one single mouthpiece that attempts to deliver the action of both. This hybrid bit is engineered to offer dual functionality, although the exact impression of a snaffle or a curb may not be definitively felt.
A Unique Fusion: Features of Pelham Bits
The architecture of a Pelham bit bears notable similarity to a curb bit. It retains all the cheeks and features of a curb, along with an added variety of mouthpieces analogous to those found in snaffles. The core distinction between a conventional curb and the Pelham lies in the presence of an extra D-cheek affixed on each side of the mouthpiece – a feature that attributes to the inherent snaffle element in the Pelham.
The Art of Maneuvering Pelham Bits
Ideally, handling a Pelham bit entails using the top (or snaffle) rein initially to hoist the horse’s head, followed by manipulating the curb through a downward, inward twist of the wrist. However, due to the moderate length of the cheeks, both reins tend to become operative concurrently. This may lead the horse into a state of confusion, prompting an unnatural lifting of its head and causing it to hollow its neck between the poll and withers.
Such displacement can alter the horse’s physiology by shortening the top line (which should ideally be lengthened) and elongating the lower line (which should be shortened). This often results in a “ewe neck” condition that complicates control and proper flexion.
Horses and Pelham Bits: A Matter of Individual Preference
Despite the complexities, it is essential to remember that horses, akin to us, have unique personalities. There are instances where a horse not only favours a Pelham bit but also performs more efficiently with it than any other bit. In such scenarios, there’s little room for argument against the Pelham’s use as the horse’s comfort and performance are paramount.
Pelham Cheeks and Mouthpieces: A Diverse Landscape
Pelham cheeks and mouthpieces come in an extensive variety of designs, all tailor-made to accommodate various equestrian needs. Some of the popular types of Pelham mouthpieces include mullen, straight-bar, jointed, eggbutt, loose-ring, fixed-cheek, slide-cheek, and angled patterns. Additionally, there are mouthpieces with innovative features like rollers, ports, double joints, and links that further accentuate their versatility.
Materials and Choices: Finding the Right Fit for Your Horse
While a majority of Pelham bits are designed with metal mouths, alternative mouthpiece materials such as nylon, rubber, and vulcanite are also sought after. These non-metal options have gained popularity for their gentle effects on horses, especially those that dislike the cold touch of metal bits. Thick, soft mouthpieces provide comfort to the horse, making Pelham bits a valuable asset for equestrians aiming to deliver a pleasant, seamless experience to their equine companions.
The Mullen-Mouth Pelham: A Common and Versatile Choice
A particularly popular variant within the world of Pelham bits is the Mullen-Mouth Pelham, commonly referred to as the half-moon Pelham. This favorite among equestrians is known for its adaptability and wide range of material choices.
Materials and Design: Meeting Diverse Preferences
Mullen-Mouth Pelhams exhibit a range of materials in their construction, including metal (such as copper), rubber, nylon, and vulcanite mouthpieces. This diverse choice in materials allows equestrians to pick the one that best suits their horse’s comfort and preferences. In addition to material variety, these Pelhams also come with different lengths of cheek, catering to various riding requirements.
Cheek Options: Tom Thumb, Eggbutt, and Turning Cheeks
The Tom Thumb Mullen-Mouth Pelham is particularly notable for its short cheek design, while other variants can have cheeks measuring up to 180mm (7 inches) in length. Moreover, some Mullen-Mouth Pelhams boast eggbutt sides, which offer stability and protection against pinching. Another interesting design feature involves turning cheeks that can be adjusted to face either forwards or backwards but will remain fixed vertically, without sliding up or down. This flexibility in design accommodates specific preferences and diverse riding styles, enhancing the Mullen-Mouth Pelham’s appeal among equestrians.
The Rugby Pelham: A Double Mimic with Precise Action
The Rugby Pelham is a distinctive design that stands out for its unique construction, which gives the appearance of a double bridle when fitted on a horse. This design not only ensures a visually appealing look but also provides a well-defined action upon the horse’s anatomy.
Fixed Cheek and Bridoon Ring: A Double Illusion
A key characteristic of the Rugby Pelham is its fixed cheek, accompanied by a bridoon ring connected to the cheek. This combination creates a double bridle-like appearance when the bit is fitted onto the horse, providing equestrians with the desired aesthetics coupled with the practicality of a single bit.
Well-defined Action: Poll and Curb Groove Impact
Beyond its visual appeal, the Rugby Pelham is known for its precise action on the horse’s poll and curb groove. This targeted impact ensures effective communication with the horse, allowing riders to guide their equine companions with ease while ensuring optimal control and responsiveness. The Rugby Pelham serves as an ideal choice for riders seeking a bit that combines aesthetics with functionality.
The Berkley Pelham: A Rugby Relative with Unique Features
The Berkley Pelham, a close relative of the Rugby Pelham, is another popular choice among equestrians, offering them an alternative while retaining the essence of the classic Rugby design.
Ring Attachments and Mullen Mouth: Key Characteristics
One distinguishing feature of the Berkley Pelham is the presence of rings attached to the existing top ring. This unique addition further extends the functionality and adaptability of the bit. Moreover, the Berkley Pelham comes with a mullen mouth, ensuring gentle yet decisive contact with the horse’s mouth while providing them with comfort during rides.
A Preferred Choice for Riders
The Berkley Pelham, with its additional rings and mullen-mouthed design, caters to riders who prefer a slightly altered version of the Rugby Pelham. This bit adapts seamlessly to the needs of equestrians and their horses, offering the perfect balance between comfort, communication, and precision.
Understanding the Kimblewick Pelham: A Valuable and Versatile Bit
The Kimblewick Pelham, also known as the Kimbelwicke or Kimberwick, is among the most valuable Pelhams featuring a Cambridge, or ported, mouthpiece. This unique bit strikes the perfect balance between strength and severity, making it a useful tool for equine control and communication.
Unique Design and Functionality: Single-Rein and Dual Action
What sets the Kimblewick apart from ordinary Pelhams is its single-rein design. When the reins are held normally, the bit functions as a snaffle with a Cambridge mouth, providing the horse with mild pressure and control. However, when the rider’s hands are lowered or a running martingale is used, the bit operates as a curb, creating increased pressure. One notable feature of the Kimblewick is that the snaffle and curb actions cannot occur simultaneously—an aspect that largely contributes to the bit’s success.
Patterns of the Kimblewick: Exploring Variations
There are five unique patterns of Kimblewick available, each catering to specific rider preferences.
The True Kimblewick: Square Eye and D-ring
The true Kimblewick boasts a square eye and a D-ring that runs the full length of the short cheek. This pattern can be found with metal or rubber-type mouths, offering choices in materials to best suit the horse’s comfort.
The Uxeter Kimblewick: Flat D-rings and Two Slots
In contrast, the Uxeter Kimblewick features flat D-rings with two slots that allow the reins to be fixed either by the mouthpiece or lower down the cheek. This design provides the rider with more options and flexibility in controlling their horse, further exemplifying the versatile nature of the Kimblewick Pelham.
Kimblewick Pelham: A Blend of Strength and Gentleness
The Kimblewick Pelham, also known as Kimbelwicke or Kimberwick, is a standout among Pelhams designed with a Cambridge, or ported, mouthpiece. Especially valuable for horses requiring a bit that is firm, yet not overly harsh. It’s the one-rein design that sets it apart from other Pelhams, offering a dual-action feature that makes this bit notably effective.
One Rein, Two Actions: Distinguishing the Kimblewick
In most situations, the Kimblewick acts as a snaffle with a Cambridge mouth, providing a mild form of control. But when reins are lowered or combined with a running martingale, it operates as a curb bit, applying greater pressure on the horse’s mouth. Of major importance is that the snaffle and curb functions don’t work together, a quality contributing quite significantly to the bit’s overall effectiveness.
| Kimblewick Patterns | Description | Properties |
|---|---|---|
| Genuine Kimblewick | The true Kimblewick design features a distinguishing square eye and a D-ring running the full length of the short cheek. | With options for metal or rubber-type mouths, it gives riders flexibility in choosing the material best suited for their horse. |
| Uxeter Kimblewick | The Uxeter Kimblewick comes with flat D-rings that have two slots. | It allows the reins to be adjusted near the mouthpiece or further down the cheek, providing greater control options. |
| Whitmore Kimblewick | The Whitmore design is akin to the true Kimblewick but with an added curb ring directly below the large D-ring. | This design may complicate things if two reins are used and can result in the simultaneous action of two curb bits through one mouthpiece. Generally, a true Kimblewick uses only one rein, preventing this confusion. |
| Other Patterns: Mullen Mouth | The fourth Kimblewick pattern features a mullen mouth. | The impact of the curb chain is often reduced as the cheeks to move back, sliding the chain out of the curb groove. |
| Other Patterns: Single-Jointed | The fifth Kimblewick pattern incorporates a single joint. | Same as Mullen Mouth. |
Jointed Pelhams
Ordinary Pelham bits can sometimes feature a jointed mouthpiece, adding functionality and diversity to their design. These bits are generally referred to as jointed Pelhams or Dexter mouths, but it’s important not to mix up these with the Dexter ring bit.
Understanding the Terminology: Jointed Pelhams vs Dexter Mouths
Jointed Pelhams and Dexter mouths are unique in their individual attributes. The primary distinctions between these two styles lie in the D-ring’s size and the mouthpiece’s shape.
Size of the D-ring
Jointed Pelham and Dexter mouth may look similar at first glance but pay attention to the size of the D-ring. Dexter mouth types showcase a notably smaller D-ring, creating a key differential from the jointed Pelham.
Shape of the Mouthpiece
The shape of the mouthpiece also plays a significant role in distinguishing between these two types of bits. A Dexter mouth is specifically characterized by a more tapered mouthpiece than what you would find in your typical jointed Pelham.
However, the term “Dexter” can also refer to another type of bit, distinct from the jointed Pelhams and the Dexter mouths: the Dexter ring bit. The Dexter ring bit is a sort of snaffle bit featuring a single large ring attached to each cheek, marking a clear difference from the other two.
The Hartwell Pelham
Often, you’ll come across various types of Pelham bits designed for distinct effects and control levels. Among these, the Hartwell stands out for its resemblance to the Weymouth curb, attributed to its unique features like the slide cheek and standard port.
Comparing Hartwell and Weymouth Curb: Shared Features
Not all Pelhams are created equally, and the Hartwell is a testament to this. Made to mirror the Weymouth curb, the Hartwell possesses unique qualities that allow it to emulate the performance of its counterpart.
Slide Cheek
One of the distinguishing features of the Hartwell is its slide cheek. This component gives the bit flexibility, enabling it to move smoothly along the cheekpieces of the bridle. Similar to how the Weymouth curb functions, this unique feature accentuates the effect of rein aids on the horse’s mouth.
Standard Port
Complementing the slide cheek is the Hartwell’s standard port. This part of the bit lies directly on the bars of the horse’s mouth, just like the Weymouth curb. The design allows for an effective indirect rein effect while ensuring the horse’s comfort.
Loose-Ring Pelham
Among the different types of Pelham bits used in bridles, the loose-ring Pelham showcases its design distinction through its rings fixed directly to the cheeks, in addition to its Cambridge mouth property.
Identifying the Characteristics of a Loose-Ring Pelham
To gain a better understanding of the loose-ring Pelham, it’s essential to recognize its specific characteristics, which set it apart from other variants of Pelham bits.
Directly Attached Rings
The loose-ring Pelham’s defining design feature lies in its rings, securely fastened to the bit’s cheeks. This method of attachment grants additional flexibility and reduces the leverage effect, making it ideal for horses tha require gentler control.
Cambridge Mouth
Another notable aspect of the loose-ring Pelham is its Cambridge mouth. This specific type of mouthpiece comes with a slightly curved shape, designed to distribute pressure evenly across the horse’s tongue. The end result is a comfortable, effective communication tool between the rider and the horse.
Globe-Cheek Pelham: A Unique Design in Horse Bits
When it comes to the diversity of Pelham bits in the equestrian world, the globe-cheek Pelham stands apart in its design and functionality. This variant usually comes with shorter cheeks and offers the possibility of a high port or a jointed mouthpiece. One of the most effective versions of the globe-cheek Pelham is the fixed curb version with a Cambridge mouth, which uses only one rein.
Harnessing the Power of Short Cheeks in Globe-Cheek Pelham
Delving deeper into the specifics of the globe-cheek Pelham, it becomes apparent that the short cheeks play a vital role in its utility.
Short Cheeks for Effective Control
Globe-cheek Pelhams are typically designed with short cheeks, a feature that aids in assertive yet gentle control over the horse. Contrary to long cheeks, which tend to create a stronger leverage effect, short cheeks deliver a less severe action, ideal for more sensitive horses or those in the training phase.
The High Port or Jointed Mouthpiece Option
Another customizable feature available with the globe-cheek Pelhams is the option of a high port or a jointed mouthpiece. These variations can further adjust the bit’s impact, targeting specific areas of the horse’s mouth based on the chosen design.
The Ideal Design: A Fixed Globe-Cheek Curb
Perhaps the most efficient globe-cheek Pelham design is the fixed curb with a Cambridge mouth. Due to the short cheek structure, this version utilizes a single rein. The use of two reins might lead to them nullifying each other’s effects, making the single-rein strategy the optimal one for this bit type.
Scamperdale Pelham
In the world of equestrianism, the Scamperdale Pelham distinguishes itself through its uniquely designed straight-bar mouthpiece and the careful consideration it offers to horses with sensitive mouths. This bit, originating from Sam Marsh’s old equestrian establishment at Edenbridge in Kent, England, is known for being gentler on horses’ mouths than other bits and is well-suited for use as a snaffle without a curb chain.
Unique Design of Scamperdale Pelham
The Scamperdale Pelham has some distinctive features that make it a notable choice amongst various types of bits available in the market.
Straight-Bar Mouthpiece with Angled Ends
The Scamperdale Pelham’s most striking feature is its straight-bar mouthpiece with ends that are angled back. This design serves a specific aim – to keep the cheeks of the bit away from the horse’s face, minimizing discomfort and possible irritation.
Gentle on Sensitive Mouths
If a horse has a sore or sensitive mouth, the Scamperdale Pelham acts as a more compassionate option. Its design ensures it won’t aggravate the soreness as severely as other types of bits might, offering a more comfortable experience for the horse.
Using the Scamperdale Pelham as a Snaffle
Though the Scamperdale Pelham is equipped for curb chain use, it doesn’t always function as expected, given that the curb chain seldom acts in the correct place. As a result, this bit finds its usefulness enhanced when used as a snaffle without a curb chain, offering an alternative application to accommodate the needs of different horses and riding styles.
Arch-Mouth Pelham: A Traditional and Moderate Approach to Horse Bits
The arch-mouth Pelham is a leading design in the world of horse bits, recognisable for its traditional pattern. This moderate bit offers an upward curve that grants ample space for the horse’s tongue. Ultimately, this design lets the bit rest comfortably on the bars, accounting for the needs of the horse while still achieving effective communication between horse and rider.
Understanding the Arch-Mouth Pelham Design
The arch-mouth Pelham design isn’t just popular because of its enduring presence in riding history, but also due to its reasonable and considerate structure providing comfort and functionality.
Moderate Bit: Arch-Mouth Pelham
The arch-mouth Pelham is identified as a moderate bit. This classification means that it delivers sufficient control over the horse without being overly harsh or restrictive. It strikes a balance that can be ideal for many riders and horses, particularly those looking for a harmonious blend of direction and comfort.
Upward Curve: Room for the Tongue
One of the key elements of the arch-mouth Pelham is its distinctive upward curve. This is not just a visual feature but a functional one. It allows enough room for the horse’s tongue, ensuring the bit lays across the bars effectively. This design minimises discomfort and prevents excessive pressure on the horse’s mouth, making the bit a more agreeable choice for sensitive horses.
Reverse Arch-Mouth Pelham
The reverse arch-mouth Pelham stands out in the horse bit world due to its unique design and impactful function. It’s a known design which is admittedly severe in its impact, pressing into the horse’s tongue. However, it does possess an often appreciated feature — leaving the bars of the horse’s mouth relatively undisturbed.
Exploring the Reverse Arch-Mouth Pelham Design
Delving into the details of the reverse arch-mouth Pelham, the reasons behind its popularity, stringent approach, and notable feature, become apparent.
Severe Bit: Reverse Arch-Mouth Pelham
Recognized as a severe bit, the reverse arch-mouth Pelham is designed for strong, impactful control. Unlike moderate or mild bits, its function can be intense, pressing into the horse’s tongue, providing a higher level of direction and command for the rider.
Unique Feature: Minimal Impact on Mouth Bars
While the reverse arch-mouth Pelham is indeed a hard bit, it does have one redeeming feature that underscores its appeal. Unlike many bits which exert pressure across multiple parts of the mouth, this bit tends to leave the bars of the mouth alone to a certain extent. This unique characteristic provides an interesting balance to its severe nature and can be appreciated by riders seeking a robust control mechanism that minimizes impact on certain areas of the horse’s mouth.
Ramsey Pelham
An interesting option amongst horse bits, the Ramsey Pelham features a unique construction, with a mouthpiece that hinges onto the bit cheek playfully named Ramsey after its inventor. The design includes a small D-ring housed within a larger bridoon ring, which sets it apart from traditional designs by providing a specific bit structure that riders might prefer.
Breaking Down the Ramsey Pelham Design
The Ramsey Pelham’s innovative design provides unique characteristics that make it a distinct choice among various horse bits available in the market.
Hinged Mouthpiece
One of the primary distinctions of the Ramsey Pelham is the mouthpiece that hinges onto the bit cheek. This design choice allows for a certain degree of movement and flexibility that other horse bits might not provide. As a result, it can cater to specific preferences, training styles, and horse temperaments, giving riders more control over the reins.
Small D-Ring Inside a Bridoon Ring
Another intriguing feature of the Ramsey Pelham is the incorporation of a tiny D-ring within the larger bridoon ring. This configuration lends an added layer of complexity and options to the bit. The D-ring provides a more secure and controlled attachment to the bridle while the bridoon ring adds versatility, making it easier for the rider to achieve the desired level of direction for their horse.
SM Pelham: A Stable and Reliable Horse Bit Design
The SM Pelham, named after its creator, Sam Marsh, is a fairly well-known pattern in the horse bit world. The bit features a wide plate mouthpiece bent into an arch at the center, similar to a port in design. The mouthpiece doesn’t change position due to its swivel mechanism, providing stability to the horse while ensuring a wide bearing on the bars of the mouth.
Delving into the SM Pelham’s Design Features
The SM Pelham showcases unique design elements that set it apart from traditional horse bits and contribute to its stable and reliable nature when used in equestrian sports and training.
Wide Plate Mouthpiece with Center Arch
One of the defining characteristics of the SM Pelham is its wide plate mouthpiece, which is bent into an arch in the center. This design resembles a port, with the added advantage of providing a comfortable and secure fit for the horse’s mouth. The arch allows for optimal distribution of pressure on the tongue and bars of the mouth, making it a more comfortable option for sensitive horses.
Swivel Mechanism: Mouth Stability
Another stand-out feature of the SM Pelham is its swivel mechanism. The mouthpiece doesn’t shift position, ensuring consistent interaction between the bit and the horse’s mouth. This stability grants the rider greater control and precise communication with the horse, leading to a better understanding and a harmonious connection during riding sessions.
Wide Bearing on Mouth Bars
The SM Pelham’s design also offers a wide bearing on the bars of the mouth. This aspect minimizes the potential for discomfort or injury to the horse by spreading pressure over a larger surface area. As a result, the horse can respond more comfortably to the rider’s cues, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable riding experience for both horse and rider.
Banbury Pelham
The Banbury Pelham stands as an integral counterpart to the Banbury curb, offering distinct advantages in horse control and communication. Its design encourages the horse to mouth and discourages the horse from catching hold of the bit, making it one of the preferred military bits used by professionals. It can feature either plain or fancy cheeks, offering variety to suit different needs and aesthetics.
Exploring the Banbury Pelham’s Unique Characteristics
The Banbury Pelham presents features designed to facilitate effective communication between the horse and the rider, which has led to it becoming a popular choice, particularly within the military sector.
Encouraging Mouthing: An Essential Design Feature
One of the highlighted aspects of the Banbury Pelham is how it encourages the horse to mouth. By promoting this natural behavior, it helps to keep the horse relaxed and attentive, which is crucial for maintaining harmony and understanding between rider and horse.
Discouraging Bit Catching: Safeguarding the Horse
Another notable characteristic of the Banbury Pelham is the way it discourages a horse from catching hold of the bit. This feature is important for the horse’s oral health and comfort, and allows for smoother communication between the horse and rider, making it an all-around safer choice.
Variable Cheek Designs: Plain or Fancy
The Banbury Pelham offers the option of either plain or fancy cheeks, providing a touch of customization to cater to individual preferences. Whether the rider values a simple, unadorned look or more decorative design, this flexibility allows the bit to align with distinct styles and functional needs.
One of The Main Military Bits
The Banbury Pelham has earned its status as one of the two main military bits, owing to its effective design and the control it offers to the rider. Such endorsement by professional riders speaks volumes about its overall reliability and functionality in high-stakes environments.
Angle-Cheek Reversible Pelham: Versatile Military Horse Bit
The angle-cheek reversible Pelham is the other main military bit, prized for its versatility and adaptability to accommodate varying horse and rider preferences. The bit features a Cambridge or arch-mouth, rough on one side and plain on the other, and two slots for the high or low curb rein placement. This design ensures it can suit a wide range of horses and riders, generally utilized with the smooth side of the mouthpiece in contact with the horse’s tongue and bars.
Key Features of the Angle-Cheek Reversible Pelham
Offering an array of unique attributes, this bit has solidified its place as one of the top choices for military applications.
Cambridge or Arch-Mouth Dual Texture
One noteworthy attribute of the angle-cheek reversible Pelham is its unique mouthpiece, consisting of a Cambridge or arch-mouth with dual textures. One side is rough, providing additional grip and control when necessary, while the other is smooth, leading to more gentle interaction with the horse. The reversible nature of this bit allows for adjustments according to each horse’s needs and sensitivities.
High or Low Curb Rein Options
The inclusion of two slots on the angle-cheek reversible Pelham makes it possible to position the curb rein either high or low. This element further enhances the bit’s versatility, enabling customization in response to varying horse temperaments and rider preferences, ultimately providing personalized control and comfort.
Adaptability for Various Horse Types and Riders
Due to its versatile design and the customizable nature of its features, the angle-cheek reversible Pelham is expected to suit horses and riders of many types. This adaptability makes the bit an ideal choice for military and professional riders who require a reliable and adjustable tool for effective communication and control when working with their horses.
Preferred Mouthpiece Orientation
While the angle-cheek reversible Pelham can be adjusted according to individual requirements, riders generally use it with the smooth side of the mouthpiece in contact with the horse’s tongue and bars. This orientation provides a gentle, comfortable, and functional interface between the horse and rider, creating a harmonious partnership during riding activities.
IX Lancer Pelham: Traditional Polo Bit for Strong Control
The IX Lancer Pelham is a traditional polo bit renowned for its strong control principles. It operates on the Wilson principle, incorporating two flat Wilson rings around a Cambridge mouth. This configuration causes the rings to press together, granting the bit considerable leverage. This is a distinctive structure, as the bit is not suspended in the horse’s mouth in the typical manner.
Exploring the Functionality of the IX Lancer Pelham
The IX Lancer Pelham, with its unique and highly functional design, has secured its place as a preferred option in polo, one of the most demanding equestrian sports.
The Wilson Principle: Adding Leverage
The IX Lancer Pelham employs the Wilson principle, a design featuring two flat Wilson rings around a Cambridge mouthpiece. This configuration allows the rings to press together as the rider manipulates the reins, providing significant leverage. The increased leverage effectively enhances the rider’s control, particularly beneficial in the fast-paced world of polo where swift responses are essential.
Unique Suspension: Ordaining Control
Contrary to many conventional horse bits, the IX Lancer Pelham does not suspend in the horse’s mouth in the usual way. This distinctive trait adds another element of control, as the bit positioning relies heavily on the pressure and communication variables from the rider. This characteristic helps to foster precise and direct interaction between the horse and rider, encouraging clean and crisp exchanges of commands.
A Favorite for Polo
Considering its distinct construction that enhances control and responsiveness, the IX Lancer Pelham has marked its identity as a traditional favorite in polo. The fast-moving nature of the game necessitates quick reflexes from both horse and player, making the efficient communication facilitated by the IX Lancer Pelham vital for success on the polo field.
Swales 3-in-1 Pelham: Powerful Control for Polo Players
The Swales 3-in-1 Pelham is another prominent polo Pelham renowned for its strong control features. Designed with wire rings around the mouthpiece in the Wilson style, this bit also has unique “pigs’ tail” checks in place of curb hooks for the chain. This modification leads to a notably severe curb action. Although the Swales 3-in-1 Pelham has minimal poll pressure, its rings produce a powerful squeezing action similar to that of the IX Lancer Pelham.
Key Components of the Swales 3-in-1 Pelham
The Swales 3-in-1 Pelham boasts several distinct characteristics that contribute to its proficiency in facilitating control and communication between rider and horse.
Wire Rings: Control Inspired by the Wilson Style
The Swales 3-in-1 Pelham features wire rings wrapped around the mouthpiece, following the Wilson style design. These rings stimulate a strong squeezing action comparable to that of the IX Lancer, granting the rider leverage and control, especially crucial in the high-intensity sport of polo.
“Pigs’ Tail” Checks: Amplifying Curb Action
Instead of conventional curb hooks for the chain, the Swales 3-in-1 Pelham employs unique “pigs’ tail” checks. This design choice results in an extremely severe curb action, enhancing the rider’s ability to manage the horse’s behavior and respond to changing conditions on the polo field.
Minimal Poll Pressure: A Distinct Feature
While the Swales 3-in-1 Pelham displays minimal poll pressure, it’s important to recognize this as a design feature rather than a disadvantage. The concentrated control comes chiefly from the bit’s squeezing action and severe curb action, offsetting the lack of poll pressure and maintaining optimal horse-rider communication.
Effective Squeezing Action: Similar to the IX Lancer
The powerful squeezing action of the Swales 3-in-1 Pelham, facilitated by its wire rings, closely resembles that of the IX Lancer Pelham. This attribute provides riders with robust control as they maneuver and communicate with their horses, accelerating their performance and reaction times during intense polo matches.
Segundo Pelham
The Segundo mouthpiece is a distinctive element that can also be found in Pelham bits, although its usage is not as widespread today. Occasionally spotted, the Segundo Pelham relies primarily on bar pressure, and its diverse port shapes cater to different tongue formations.
Understanding the Segundo Pelham’s Features and Actions
The Segundo Pelham has unique characteristics and performs specific actions, making it a versatile and adaptable bit for those who choose to utilize it.
Bar Pressure: A Focused Control Mechanism
The primary action of the Segundo Pelham is based on bar pressure, which targets the bars of the horse’s mouth to instigate control and communication. This concentrated approach allows the rider to efficiently manage the horse’s movements, while also considering the horse’s comfort.
Diverse Port Shapes: Accommodating Different Tongue Sizes
One remarkable attribute of the Segundo Pelham is its assortment of differently-shaped ports, which have been designed to accommodate various tongue sizes and shapes. This unique feature ensures that the bit can be adjusted to deliver optimal comfort for the horse, while still providing the rider with the necessary control to steer and communicate.
Limited Usage Today: A Niche Bit for Specific Needs
Though the Segundo Pelham is not as prevalent in today’s equestrian world, it still holds a niche status for those who appreciate its specific control mechanisms and its adaptability to different tongue configurations. As a specialized bit, it can provide tailored solutions for riders seeking a unique way of connecting with their horses.
While not as common as other Pelham bits, the Segundo Pelham offers valuable features for those looking to explore alternative horse control options. With a focus on bar pressure and the versatility to adapt to varying tongue shapes, this bit can be a beneficial addition to a rider’s repertoire.
Hanoverian Pelham
The Hanoverian Pelham, recognized for its long cheeks and high, hinged port, is a well-established bit often used for ponies and polo ponies. Unique to this Pelham are cherry rollers, which are positioned on both sides of the port.
Elements and Applications of the Hanoverian Pelham
The Hanoverian Pelham, with its distinctive features and long history of usage in equestrian practices, offers a unique method of establishing control and communication between rider and pony.
Long Cheeks: Providing Control and Stability
The Hanoverian Pelham stands out with its long cheeks, which offer an important advantage in controlling and stabilizing the bit position in the pony’s mouth. This ensures clear, consistent communication from the rider, while providing comfort for the pony.
High, Hinged Port: Ensuring Comfort and Compatibility
Another distinct attribute of the Hanoverian Pelham is its high, hinged port. This feature facilitates the bit’s adaptability to the pony’s mouth configuration, enhancing the comfort level of the pony while ensuring effective communication and control.
Cherry Rollers: Adding a Unique Touch
Set on both sides of the port are cherry rollers – a unique element of the Hanoverian Pelham. In addition to adding a vibrant aesthetic touch, these cherry rollers encourage the pony to play with the bit, reducing stress and promoting oral wellness.
Used for Ponies and Polo Ponies: A Legacy of Trust
The Hanoverian Pelham has a legacy of being used for ponies, including polo ponies, providing reliable control and communication during equestrian activities. Its design and functionality make it a reliable choice for ponies, and it continues to hold a respectable place in today’s world of equestrian sports.
Pelham Bit Attachments: Enhancing Rider Control and Comfort
Pelham bit attachments, such as Pelham roundings and the Mohawk, are designed to enhance the rider’s control and simplify bit handling. These accessories either modify the original function of the bit or provide additional functionality to suit the rider’s preference.
Pelham Roundings: Handling Two Reins with Ease
Pelham roundings are handy accessories designed for riders who prefer using a Pelham but find managing two reins challenging.
Simplifying Bit Handling
These ingenious attachments are loops of rounded leather that attach to both the curb and snaffle rings on one side of the bit, effectively consolidating two reins into one. This makes handling the reins less cumbersome for the rider and simplifies the overall riding process.
Modifying Curb Action
One important aspect to consider is that Pelham roundings greatly reduce the effect of the curb. This may be beneficial for riders who find the curb action of a Pelham bit too strong and are looking to lessen its overall impact.
Mohawk Pelham Attachment: An Addition for Greater Pressure
The Mohawk is another Pelham bit attachment that enhances the function of the bit by exerting a more severe effect.
Design and Function
The Mohawk comprises a straight bar adorned with rubber ball washers. It clips onto the eyes of the bit above the mouthpiece and is secured in the center with a figure-of-eight rubber ring.
Enhancing Bit Effect
With the Mohawk attachment, the bearing surface of the bit doubles, allowing for increased pressure on the bars. While this results in a more severe effect, for some riders, this may provide the added control they desire during their equestrian activities.
