Variety in Western Horse Tack
Western bridles, bits, and other headgear cover a wide spectrum, ranging from affordable options with simple snaffle or curb bits to elegant silver show bridles featuring intricately engraved silver bits. This vast array of equipment includes specific gear designed to address various training challenges that may arise.
Regional and Event-Based Variations
The bits and headgear chosen often vary based on the region in the United States and the specific event in which horses are participating. Western horses are utilized in a diverse array of activities, such as:
- Cutting (cattle)
- Rodeo events
- Horse shows
- Gymkhana games
- Cowboy polo
- Pleasure and competitive trail riding
- Everyday ranch work
Understanding these regional and event differences helps ensure the selection of appropriate Western bridles and bits for each unique situation, enhancing the performance and comfort of both horse and rider.
Ring Snaffle
The ring snaffle, including variants like the D-ring and eggbutt, is the standard snaffle bit in America. It is frequently employed on racehorses, which has earned it the nickname of the D-ring or D-cheek race snaffle.
Popular Types of Ring Snaffles
When examining the wide selection of ring snaffle bits, two types in particular are known for their prevalence and effectiveness:
- D-Ring: This snaffle features a bit ring shaped like a “D.” It helps to provide lateral control, making it an excellent choice for horses in training or those requiring slightly more guidance.
- Eggbutt: The eggbutt snaffle is characterized by its oval-shaped bit rings. It’s appreciated for its gentle and stable nature since it reduces the risk of pinching the horse’s mouth.
Both types of ring snaffle bits are perfect for various equestrian settings and can be tailored to suit the needs of individual horses and riders.
Shank Snaffle
In the world of horse bits, the shank snaffle stands out as a bit that combines a snaffle mouthpiece with elongated shanks (the side parts or “cheeks” of the bit). These shanks provide additional leverage to the rider. This type of bit is commonly used along with a curb strap, which is also known as a curb chain.
Popular Varieties of Shank Snaffles
Argentine Shank Snaffle
Among shank snaffles, the Argentine variant is particularly popular. It is characterized by its flat cheeks, which extend long and feature rings for reins located at the same level as the mouthpiece. The Argentine shank snaffle operates based on the same leverage principle as a curb bit. However, its jointed mouthpiece, often referred to as “broken,” introduces the nutcracker effect typical of a traditional snaffle.
Tom Thumb Shank Snaffle
Another well-known type of shank snaffle is the Tom Thumb, named for its shorter and rounded shanks in contrast to the flatter, longer shanks of the Argentine variant. Despite operating on the same principles as the Argentine shank snaffle, the Tom Thumb provides the rider with less leverage due to its shorter shanks, resulting in a milder bit overall.
Defining the Shank Snaffle
The term “shank snaffle” has led to some debate among equine enthusiasts, as some argue that it’s not a true snaffle due to its incorporation of shanks that add leverage. Despite this, the “shank” prefix is used primarily to distinguish it from a conventional snaffle. While it shares functional similarities with the curb bit, the shank snaffle always incorporates the snaffle mouthpiece.
Curb Bit
The curb bit is a form of leverage bit designed with shanks and a solid-bar mouthpiece instead of a jointed one. Shanks in curb bits can greatly vary in length and design, with some being quite minimalistic and others adorned with ornate silver mountings.
Shanks and Leverage
The shanks play a pivotal role in the functionality of a curb bit as their length directly correlates with the amount of leverage exerted on a horse’s mouth and poll (the part of a horse’s head between the ears). This variability in shank length allows riders to tailor the degree of control to the unique needs of their horse.
Mouthpiece Designs
Just as shanks can vary in a curb bit, so too can the designs of the mouthpieces. They can range from straightforward, straight-bar varieties to those encompassing a high port, which is an upward curve that provides extra room for the horse’s tongue. This diversity in design accommodates a range of horse sensitivities, making it easier for riders to find an optimal fit for their equine companion.
Spade Bit
The spade bit is a unique type of horse bit, distinguished by the spade (also known as a spoon or port) that extends from its mouthpiece. As a true spade bit features braces, or sidebars, connecting the cheekpieces to the base of the spoon on either side, it prevents a horse from moving its tongue over the bit.
Spade Mouthpieces and Braces
A spade bit’s mouthpiece is consistently designed as a straight-bar, and its braces can begin either at the cheekpieces or halfway along the mouthpiece. The spade, or spoon, may be rounded or flat at the top and often includes a central roller, commonly referred to as a cricket, which functions as a pacifier.
Additional Features and Designs
Copper rollers can sometimes be found on spade mouthpieces, serving to increase moisture within the horse’s mouth even further. Additionally, the bit cheeks of the spade bit are often adorned with silver-mounted designs, showcasing intricate craftsmanship.
Spade Bit Use and Reputation
Today, the use of spade bits is relatively uncommon due to the extensive training required for a horse to become proficient in their use. Unjustly, some view the spade bit as cruel. However, it is essential to recognize that the severity of any bit – including the spade – ultimately depends on the skill and sensitivity of the rider using it.
Half-Breed Bits
Half-breed bits bear significant resemblance to spade bits, but with key differences that give them their unique name. Specifically, half-breed bits lack the side braces and spoon that are characteristic of spade bits, setting them apart from the latter.
Design of Half-Breed Bits
In a true half-breed bit, the mouthpiece is always a straight-bar design, accompanied by a narrow port. This port typically measures around 38 to 45mm (1.5 to 1.75 in.) in width and about 38mm in height, frequently featuring a roller.
Decorative Elements
As with spade bits, the cheeks of half-breed bits are typically adorned with intricate silver-mounted designs, adding an element of opulence to their practical application.
Loose-Jawed Feature
Half-breed bits are known for their loose-jawed characteristic, also referred to as slide-cheek or loose-cheek. This trait implies that the bit cheeks fasten loosely to the mouthpiece, rather than being fixed, adding an additional facet of adaptability to this type of horse bit.
Training Bits and Headgear
Training bits and headgear significantly influence the process of training colts, facilitating control and teaching lateral flexion. Different parts of the country have preferred training methods and equipment which often correspond to the specific style of riding popular in the region.
Ring Snaffle for Colt Training
In the south west and along the west coast, many trainers prefer to break colts using a ring snaffle. This preference stems from the easier control that the bit provides and its ability to effectively teach lateral flexion. In essence, the colt learns quickly to “follow his head.”
From Snaffle to Hackamore
After the initial training with a ring snaffle, the colt is generally transitioned to a hackamore, especially if he is being trained for reining and cow-horse work. Young horses are frequently shown in the hackamore through their five-year-old year in classes for this type of work. The use of hackamore is instrumental in teaching Western movements, such as figure-eight, slide and spin, and cow handling, without risking damage to the colt’s mouth.
Snaffle for Schooling
Despite a young horse being shown in a hackamore, many trainers stick to using a snaffle bit during schooling. This is because, regardless of the horse’s age, many trainers find that the snaffle is second to none for schooling and training purposes.
Transition to Bridle
From the hackamore, the horse is then trained using a bridle, commonly referred to as ‘straight up in the bridle’. This typically involves using a bridle fitted with a curb or a half-breed, which are the most common bits used in these regions. Yet, even when the horse is used to the curb or half-breed, trainers often continue schooling the horse in the snaffle, sometimes in conjunction with a running martingale.
Alternative Training Methods
Other parts of the country have their own preferences. In some regions, trainers often start breaking a colt with a hackamore, then transition to a snaffle or shank snaffle for all schooling. Shank snaffles like the Tom Thumb and Argentine are particularly popular for this purpose.
Bits for Showing and Competing
In the world of equine competition, the type of bit and headgear used can vary greatly, depending on the event, the horse’s age, and even specific rules put in place by organizing bodies. From major shows to specialized events, differing rules apply, and choosing the right equipment can have a significant impact on performance.
Standard Bits in Major Shows
Major shows in the United States, such as those governed by the rules of the American Horse Shows Association (AHSA) or the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA), have specific guidelines for bits and headgear. According to AHSA rules, young horses can be shown in some events using a hackamore until they reach six years old, while the AQHA allows it until the horses are five. After this age, horses partaking in judged events—including reining and pleasure—must be shown using standard bits like curbs, half-breeds, or spades.
Rise of Snaffle Bit Futurities
In recent times, specialized events termed ‘Snaffle Bit Futurities’ have been gaining immense popularity. These futurities follow their own set of rules and are reserved for three-year old horses of any breed, which are shown using snaffle bits. The showcase includes both a reining pattern and cattle work.
Variety in Pleasure Futurities
Pleasure futurities designed for two-or-three-year-old horses are also gaining popularity. Depending on the particular futurity rules, horses can be shown in curbs, snaffles, or hackamores.
Headgear Choices in Timed Events
Timed events such as barrel racing, pole bending, and calf roping, which are a common part of horse shows, rodeos, and gymkhanas, allow for a wide variety in headgear. Hackamores are popular equipment for these events, as they offer excellent control and free up the rider to focus on achieving the best possible time without risking harm to the horse’s mouth.
Using Hackamores with Tie-Downs
Generally, in timed events, hackamores are often used in conjunction with a tie-down to maintain the horse’s head position. These tie-downs—whether it’s a strap, rope, or wire—work similarly to a standing martingale but are attached either to a breastgirth or the cinch (girth). This setup allows the rider to concentrate on timing without worrying about the horse’s head movement. These measures might seem extraneous to some, but considering the significant prize money often at stake in timed events, they can play a critical role.
Understanding Bridles
In the world of equestrian sports, bridles are an integral part of horse-tack. They play a significant role during judged events and vary in design, material and purpose. Let’s delve into more details about this essential piece of horse-riding equipment.
Silver-Mounted Bridles in Judged Events
Silver-mounted or silver-trimmed bridles, known as headstalls, are highly sought after in the American show ring, particularly for judged events such as pleasure, trail horse, equitation, and reining. There are two types of leather constructions for these show bridles: round and flat. The latter is often chosen over the former for its practicality, especially when it comes to repair and maintenance.
Disadvantages of Rawhide-Lined Bridles
While some heavy-duty bridles are lined with rawhide, this isn’t a practical solution in the long run. The rawhide tends to soften due to sweat and dry out, becoming hard and inflexible, which is not ideal for proper control and comfort of the horse.
Western Bridle Styles
There are two popular styles of Western bridles: the browband and the one-ear (split-ear).
Browband Bridles
The browband bridle, fitted with a headpiece, cheekpieces, browband, and throatlatch, is the more popular type. It offers a double-sewn design, with the headpiece and the throatlatch constructed separately and joined by three double loops for a secure fit.
One-Ear Bridles
The one-ear bridle features a split on one side of the headpiece, through which the horse’s ear passes. This design secures the bridle, eliminating the need for a browband or throatlatch. This pattern is frequently used on working stock horses.
Use of Nosebands and Halters
Nosebands, primarily used for decoration or by Argentine gauchos, are rarely seen. But it’s not uncommon to see a halter fitted over or under the bridle to easily tether the horse. However, in judged events, nosebands, including cavessons (cavasons), are not permitted. Curb chains, on the other hand, are accepted.
Riding with Reins and Romal
Riders on the west coast often prefer using closed reins attached to a romal, a long leather strap. The romal is frequently held by the rider when working with cattle, enabling them to ride single-handedly by using neck-reining to direct the horse.
Split Reins in Other Regions
In other parts of the country, split reins are quite popular. These are individual reins, not joined along their length. This design allows for a unique method of control where, when dropped, they hang down in front of the horse, the horse is trained to halt when the reins are in this position, eliminating the need for traditional tying up.
Exploring Other American Bridles and Bits
In American equestrian culture, many different types of bridles and bits are used depending on the breed of the horse and the specific activities they engage in. Let’s take a closer look at those used for American Saddlebreds, Arab and Morgan breeds, and particular bits like the Californian Elevator Bit or those designed specifically for Tennessee Walking Horses.
American Saddlebred, Arab, and Morgan Bridles and Bits
The bridles used for American Saddlebreds, Arabs, and Morgans tend to be far more ornate than typical English bridles. The browbands and nosebands, while made of leather, are usually coated in vibrant, eye-catching colors. This color coordination often extends to match not just the rider’s attire, but also the horse’s coat.
For Saddlebreds, the schooling process typically involves some type of snaffle with a running martingale. A potential five-gaited horse gets all of his training in a snaffle until he masters all five gaits: walk, trot, slow gait, rack and canter. Only then is he upgraded to a full double bridle. Double bridles used in both three-gaited and five-gaited Saddlebred showings often feature curb bits with particularly long cheeks, ranging between 178 and 203mm (7 to 8 inches). The mouthpieces may have either low or high ports— some square and others fitted with internal rollers to help the horse mouth.
Features of American Race Bridles
American race bridles, also referred to as the ‘English’ pattern, incorporate a distinct American style with a separate throat latch that passes over the poll. These bridles are generally made of high-quality leather no more than 16mm (approximately ¾ inch) thick, primarily brown, although some are crafted in white leather.
Californian Elevator Bit
Invented by Jimmy A. Williams of California, the Elevator Bit is a relatively new addition to the world of horse-tack. It is a smooth, broken snaffle with an extended shank, utilized alongside a snaffle rein and a curb rein, much like a Pelham. However, it offers significantly greater leverage. The bit is designed to lift the horse’s head using the snaffle rein and gain flexion with the curb rein.
Tennessee Walking Horse Bridles and Bits
Tennessee Walking Horses have a bit specifically designed for them, aptly named the Walking Horse Bit. This curb bit boasts exceedingly long cheeks, ranging between 203 and 254mm (8 to 10 inches), offering the rider enough leverage to manage the horse during the showy running walk and rocking-horse canter. Mouthpieces of Walking Horse Bits include medium height ports.
Bridles for Tennessee Walking horses invariably include a cavesson noseband and curb chain to operate in unison with the bit. The use of tie-downs and martingales is avoided in this particular setup.
Frequently Asked Questions About Western Bridles and Bits
Q: What is a Western Bridle?
A: A Western bridle, often used in Western riding disciplines, is a type of horse headset without a noseband. It typically includes a bit, reins, and a headstall which holds the bit in place. This bridle style is known for allowing good communication between horse and rider with very light pressure.
Q: What are Western Bits?
A: Western bits are a vital element of the Western bridle, sitting inside the horse’s mouth to aid in communication and control. They usually have a shank, or arm, that extends below the horse’s mouth, which allows for more leverage and control, important in various Western disciplines.
Q: How do I know which Western Bit is best for my horse?
A: The choice of a Western bit largely depends on your horse’s training level, mouth sensitivity, and the discipline you’re riding. Consulting with a professional trainer or experienced equestrian can provide specific guidance. Always ensure that your horse is comfortable with the bit type you choose.
Q: How do the designs of Western Bridles differ?
A: Western bridles come in various designs, but most commonly fall into two categories: browband and one-ear (or split-ear) bridles. Browband bridles have a band that goes over the horse’s forehead and are often used for trail riding. One-ear bridles feature a hole for one of the horse’s ears, offering less material and a sleeker look.
Q: Are Western Bridles and Bits used in races?
A: Western bridles and bits are not commonly used in horse racing. Racing bridles usually are of the English variety, with thinner bits and leather, allowing for lighter contact and faster responses which are essential for racing.
Q: What materials are Western Bridles made of?
A: Western bridles are typically made from leather, due to its long-lasting and comfortable properties. However, you may also find them in synthetic materials like nylon, which can be more durable and easier to clean.
Q: Can all horses use a Western Bridle and Bit?
A: While any horse can technically be ridden with a Western bridle and bit, the choice should be determined more by the discipline you’re riding and the training your horse has received. If your horse is trained in Western riding, then a Western bridle and bit would be appropriate.
Q: What’s the difference between a snaffle bit and a curb bit?
A: Snaffle bits operate with direct pressure and are considered more gentle, making them ideal for young or inexperienced horses. Curb bits, on the other hand, work on a leverage system, meaning they exert more pressure and are typically used for horses with more advanced training.
Q: How should a Western Bridle fit on my horse?
A: A properly fitted Western bridle should allow for a few fingers’ space between the cheek of the horse and the headstall, while the bit should sit comfortably in the horse’s mouth without causing discomfort. The browband or ear piece (depending on your bridle type) shouldn’t be too tight or loose, but fit snugly without pinching or rubbing.
Q: How do I clean and maintain my Western Bridle and Bit?
A: Cleaning your Western bridle and bit is key to prolonging their lifespan. Regularly remove dirt and sweat with a damp cloth, and condition the leather components frequently to maintain their flexibility and strength. The bit should be rinsed after each use to keep it clean for your horse. Always store in a dry, cool place.
