Saddlery & Tack
Bridles explained
A bridle is the piece of headgear which allows you to control your horse. Typically consisting of buckled straps, to which a headpiece, bit and reins are then attached, a horse bridle is the means by which a rider communicates with the horse.
Our bridles and reins are suitable for all sizes of horses and ponies. We stock a wide range of reputable brands such as Celtic Equine and Schockemohle, and Tally Ho Farm always delivers quality horse riding equipment.
What types of bridles are there?
Bridles come in a range of colours, types and sizes. As well as brown and black bridles, we have snaffle bridles, in-hand bridles, flash bridles, competition bridles and double bridles. There are cheek pieces and nosebands, bitless bridles and grackle bridles. With such a huge range to choose from, you may find it all a bit overwhelming. Our friendly team is always on hand to help you find the right bridle for the right occasion, be it competition or otherwise.
What is a cob bridle?
A cob bridle is a small bridle for a smaller horse. There are five bridles sizes - small pony, pony, cob, full-size and oversize. It is very important that the bridle fits the size of your horse because if it is too big or too small, it can cause irritation and in the worst case, pain to the horse.
Using a Snaffle Bridle
A Snaffle Bridle is the most common type of horse bridle used for general riding. Its name comes from the type of bit that is used, which applies direct pressure to the horses’ mouth whilst the rider is giving direction using the reins, which are attached on either side via two rings.
How are Dressage and show bridles different?
The most common type of bridle used for dressage events, as well as shows, is the Double Bridle. Requiring more skill than a snaffle bridle, it is generally used by riders with an advanced skill level because it can damage a horses’ mouth, if used incorrectly. Show bridles are made up of two bits and two sets of reins, a small bit called a Bridoon (which turns the horse left or right) and a curb (which tells the horse to move its head up or down).
What bridles are allowed in dressage?
The bridle your horse can wear depends on the level. According to national rules an ordinary snaffle bridle must be worn for Preliminary and Novice levels, while a double bridle or snaffle bridle can be used at Elementary to Grand Prix dressage competitions. Under FEI rules a double bridle must be worn at Prix St Georges and Grand Prix dressage levels.
Most bridles would have a noseband and this can be a cavesson, drop, flash or grackle noseband with a snaffle bridle. Double bridles must have a cavesson noseband.