Why do most ponies wear snaffles?

Most ponies wear snaffles because they are versatile, comfortable, and effective in clearly communicating the rider’s aids during training.

Snaffle bits are the most commonly seen bits at riding schools and livery yards. They are popular due to their versatility, comfort, and compatibility with a variety of horses and ponies.

Reasons for Snaffle Bit Popularity

• Versatility: Snaffle bits can fit most mouths and are suitable for various training levels in horses and ponies.
• Comfort: When used correctly by the rider, snaffles are gentle and do not cause discomfort to the pony.
• Communication: Snaffles allow rider’s aids to be communicated clearly during training and encourage the animal to hold its head in the right position.

If a rider is uncertain about which bit to use, a snaffle is a safe and reliable choice.

Types of Snaffles

There are three basic designs of snaffle bits – straight-bar and mullen-mouth, single-jointed, and double-jointed – with numerous variations within each design.

Single-Jointed Snaffles

Below are four examples of single-jointed snaffles, highlighting different ways the rings are connected to the mouthpiece:

1. Eggbutt – In this design, the rings join the mouthpiece at a fixed T-junction, which prevents the lips from getting pinched and keeps the bit stable in the pony’s mouth.
2. Cheeked – Also known as “eggbutt cheeked,” this design features cheek bars above and below the ring, or just above it. These bars aid in steering and hold the bit at the correct angle through leather keepers, giving the bit a stronger action.
3. Loose-ring – This design allows the bit rings to move through a hole in the mouthpiece. This can help the animal relax its jaw but requires careful sizing and maintenance to prevent rubbing or nicking the lips. Rubber bit guards can prevent these issues.
4. D-ring – This design has straight edges, helping with steering and keeping the ring from slipping into the animal’s mouth during tight turns. Racing bits often use D-ring snaffles.

By understanding the various types of snaffles and their functions, riders can make informed decisions on which snaffle bit best suits their horse or pony’s needs.

Varieties of Double-Jointed Snaffle Bits

Double-jointed snaffle bits come in various designs, each with unique features that impact their use and the way they interact with the pony’s mouth. Here, we cover two main types, the French-link and the Dr Bristol, along with other unique snaffle bit designs available on the market.

French-Link Snaffle

The French-link snaffle design features:

• Design: A figure of eight-shaped plate in the centre, which sits comfortably on the pony’s tongue.
• Impression: Ponies usually respond well to this bit, finding it comfortable and gentle.

Dr Bristol Snaffle

The second example is the Dr Bristol snaffle:

• Unique Feature: A flat plate set at an angle, requiring precise positioning for optimal effect.
• Proper Usage: The optimal position for this bit is with the lower edge pointing backwards, effectively digging down and back into the tongue when the rein is pulled.

Correct positioning is critical to avoid creating a harsher impact than intended with this bit.

Other Snaffles Types

In addition to the standard designs, you may encounter other interesting and varied snaffle designs in a tack shop. These can have:

• Multiple Joints: More than one or two joints in the bit’s design.
• Rollers: Movable rollers positioned in the mouthpiece, which can prevent the pony from grabbing and pulling onto the bit.
• Twisted or Grooved Mouthpieces: This design concentrates pressure onto a sharp, narrow area on the pony’s tongue.

While these designs might be intriguing, they are often too severe for most ponies and riders. Many of these bits date back to a time when horses were less trained and lacked effective braking mechanisms. Given their harsh nature, it’s advised to consider their use carefully, recognizing they might not be suitable for most pony riders.

Remember, the right choice of snaffle bit enhances both the comfort of the pony and the effectiveness of the rider’s commands. Understanding these elements helps to make an informed selection that is suitable for both the pony’s comfort and training needs.

Bit Design and Its Impact on Pony

A bit’s design plays a significant part in its effect on the pony. The number of joints in the bit, how the rings attach to the mouthpiece, and the thickness of the mouthpiece are all key factors in determining this impact.

Influence of Joint Number

The number of joints in a bit contributes to its overall effect:

• Single joint: Applies pressure on the pony’s tongue and the bars of the mouth, producing a “nutcracker” action.
• Double joint: Distributes pressure more evenly across the tongue and bars, reducing the “nutcracker” effect.

Influence of Ring Attachments

How the rings attach to the mouthpiece affects the bit’s function:

• Loose Ring: Allows the bit to move around more, activating salivation and chewing, which can be comforting to the pony.
• Fixed Ring: Limits movement of the bit, offering more direct communication between the rider and the pony.

Influence of Mouthpiece Thickness

The thickness of the mouthpiece changes the impact of the bit:

• Thin Mouthpiece: Offers the rider more control as pressure from the reins concentrates on a narrower area of the tongue and lips.
• Thick Mouthpiece: Usually suited for young horses and novice riders, as the pressure is spread out more evenly.

Please note – it’s crucial to consider your pony’s mouth size when choosing a bit. One must not expect a pony with a small jaw or mouth to accommodate a large, thick bit. The comfort of the pony is paramount and goes hand in hand with successful training and riding.