FINDING THE BEST BIT FOR YOUR HORSE

[@matt_harnacke]

To everyone asking me to try bit less on Emporio... it’s coming very soon 🙈 I hope this video can help anyone who uses bits to make sure their horses are as comfortable as possible. I think the argument Bit vs Bit less shouldn’t be as relevant as to what is actually BETTER for YOUR horse. Everyone should do what works best for their horse as long as it’s not abusive. Weather it’s a bit less bridle, a bit or even riding on neck rope if you are able to train correctly none of these methods should be causing pain, but that’s always up to us as riders. I have ridden my horses with a bit and also with the Nalanta bit less bridle... I find that both work well in their own way!

[@samanthamoseley9450]

Matt Harnacke totally agree and thanks for this helpful video

[@adelainesinclair2062]

Definitely! Thank you for the education; this video is very helpful🙌🏼

[@islacassells7332]

Anyone who thinks they need a bit for their horse obviously can’t ride well or their horse isn’t trained well. No well trained horse should ever need a piece of metal in their mouth in order to control them. Bits can’t be used without causing some sort of discomfort as that is their purpose. They are meant to apply pressure to the gums which is obviously going to cause some degree of discomfort

[@charlimcc3445]

Isla Cassells I understand that’s your opinion but there is so much false information😂 who taught you this?

[@lillerella]

Isla Cassells what level dressage are you riding to have this opinion? Matt is a dressage trained rider I’m sure he plans on competing at some stage for competition he is going to possibly have to move to a double bridle if he levels up , It is a ruled requirement no exceptions . Matt here is finding a bit that works for his dressage training , maybe your method works for playing around on an older horse but not for dressage

[@biancac.9975]

10:51 "Bits aren't to fix training problems or to force anything, the bits should be fitted to be the most comfortable and suitable for the horse (...). There's no fixing things with bits" I love this statement

[@hillockfarm8404]

Correct, but an uncomfortable bit can distract the horse to the point of falling on his face at the first bit of uneven ground. Mine hated jointed bits, went happily in snaffle with shank and unbroken or billy allen. The more mobile the bit the more unpredictable it is. Some horses love that, some can't find a way to have it sit comfortably (and those will chew/mess with it untill the bridle comes off). Chewing on it is not always a good sign.

[@savannahjensen7702]

But why even use bits then?

[@mazikeen5147]

Bella Rós To communicate - which is also said in the video.

[@valerie1223]

storytimeee: i was so sad when i visited my old stable a few months ago when i saw that the stableowner put a giant, strong bit in a “bigger/stronger” haflinger. When i rode him weeks before that he was actually really nice to ride and responded really well on just a normal bit. I’m not anti bit but i am against bits that are just so wrong for the horse. People easily think that it’s the horse or the equipment that has to change for the horse to respond better but it’s really just the rider in most of these cases. For example: i got to take care of a super sweet pony for the entire winter of 2018, he’s literally the sweetest and kindest horse i’ve ever met and he always responded perfectly. Even the owners said he’s progressed a lot and was much nicer to ride since he came back. But recently i’ve heard stories that he bucks children off and runs out of the riding arena, which he has never done in the 7 months he’s been with me. Of course, every horse has their moments of excitement and eveything, but he absolutely never did this to me. The tack never changed and neither did his food or anything else. It’s really just the rider!

[@charlieprice1469]

@@reesew4614 most horses can't be ridden bitless, because they dislike the pressure of a bitless bridle.

[@nadia1573]

It would be nice if you also filmed when/if you get a saddle fitter the next time. We need to spread awareness of back pain caused by non-fitted saddles. 😄

[@ClassicalPianoisMyJam]

Nadia yes! I’d find this super helpful.

[@gregory3588]

Love this idea!

[@TheMaisiewoofwoof]

1000 percent yes to this suggestion 👏

[@loiteringspy8063]

the gal who helped you did such a wonderful job explaining and talking about all the different bits and she made some really interesting points. she is lovely and well spoken. thanks for sharing this with us, great learning experience for lots of us who wouldn't have the opportunity to have this chat with a qualified person personally

[@TheMaisiewoofwoof]

She was brilliant!

[@bellafitzpatrick9714]

It’s so cool to watch Matt get so many subscribers and become one of the biggest equestrian influencers on KZbin! Matt you really deserve it, you’re such a role model for young riders like myself

[@Robsav-yx6vi]

roxanne : well said Roxanne , it’s his continuous improvement Mentally that he demonstrates. Best wishes

[@ssomeoneyouknoww]

You know you have watched many of Matt’s videos when you know the song in the background. 😂

[@matildaellison4369]

I was thinking the same thing lol.

[@mariestorsletten]

Yees

[@nlbhaduri]

I have been riding for 50 years and have never had such a thorough/simple explanation of bits before this video!! Thank you for pointing out you errors too, because it makes the rest of us realize we can make mistakes at any level of riding and one must always be humble and self reflective of decisions regarding our horsemanship! Matt, you are such a gentleman in your interviews. You are kind, grateful and polite to everyone you deal with. Keep making videos Matt and Jesse, I am still learning!!

[@mikemathieson3700]

I love how Matt is so concerned with the happiness and wellbeing of his horses.

[@klaudia711]

Do you think you’ll ever try bitless? Nothing against bits I just think it would be interesting to see how your horse/s react.

[@charlieprice1469]

If he does it would probably be a lot of hassle, because he would have to record clips for a few weeks possibly months, because it takes serious adjustment for the horse. And between Emporio and Chase, Matt would probably chose Chase to try it with.

[@majorica_pearls2526]

My best guess is that he will not go bitless, strictly on the grounds that bitless bridles aren’t legal for dressage competition yet.

[@bg588]

The Motherland I rode all my horses bitless for 55 years.

[@klaudia711]

Majorica_Pearls I’m not thinking about fully going bitless, but just trying it out to see how the horse/s react

[@tashakline2182]

@@charlieprice1469 I bought my horse 3 years ago and rode with a bit for maybe 3 months. One day i just took it off and we never looked back. Its not that major of an adjustment for the horse as it is for the person. Esp if you already have a strong bond with your horse.

[@ginnyferguson3772]

People seem to think bit less causes no discomfort but you must have very light hands with bit less as it's very unforgiving on the pressure inflicted on the nose!! Very informative Matt! Thank you!

[@TheOldandslow]

Yes, I have found damaged polls from rough hands (because theres no bit, right?) on a bitless bridle, especially the cross-under type. Effectively pulling the poll from the nose and sometimes w little regard to the anatomy being impacted. So heavy hands are heavy independent of the equipment being used.

[@NeemaAndGame]

Sadly the biggest problem with bitless is people thinking if there's no bit then it won't cause any harm. And they use it way to rough because of that.

[@reesew4614]

Bit or bitless, if you’re not careful you can ALWAYS hurt the horse. If you have hard hands either bit or bitless, it might/will hurt the horse. I think that bitless is better since your tool isn’t inside the horses mouth jerking around. Bitless may cause a different type of damage, but both do. However, bitless is probably more comfortable depending upon the type of bridle too.

[@TheTeenese]

Woooah, thank you. I always struggle with fitting the bit and the bridle. Now I know what I should look out for 😊Fitting the saddle is one and obvious thing, but it’s the first time I see a specialist fitting bits.. I guess it’s still a phenomenon in Poland

[@joannesanford7845]

Matt is confident in what he knows but ready to admit what he still needs to learn. Perfect!

[@alezmcc]

Fun and educational video! I´ve worked in a horse shop and taken courses for fitting horse equipment. It would be fun to see a video about your saddle, specialy since he´s so young and gaining muscles. Thanks for a great channel!

[@karole6130]

Since nearly 8 years now i only use bits from sprenger. They’re not cheap, but worth every penny, since they’re the only ones i found that have solutions for every horse and size! 🙏🏻🤗

[@stellacarter9499]

I just bought a PRE mare today, I'm so happy 😍

[@matt_harnacke]

Congratulations you are very lucky!

[@eviemay298]

Stella Carter are they andalusians? If so I loveeee them 😍😍

[@sarahryder3096]

I use that very KK bit for everything, including simple hacks to dressage to eventing. My OTTBs love it.

[@reesew4614]

Sarah Ryder, PhD. Ummm How do you know?

[@charlieprice1469]

@@reesew4614 same way you know how horses like anything, they accept it readily and are happy to ride in it.

[@sarahryder3096]

Good question, @@reesew4614. No more fuss. No more head toss. No more resistance. No more ill attitudes. For a specific example, it was an immediate game changer for my normally rank mare. She is now soft in the bridle and eager to work. All were vetted for issues and the only conclusion drawn was the need for a bit change. I swear by it.

[@nomnomni]

A very informative video. I like it and can use the information I learnd. Moore of those plz! Like saddle or horse rug

[@emb8144]

I completely agree with what you’ve said in your comment. Not all bits are bad, and not all bitless bridles are good! Its up to the horse, and what they suit best! Very educational video, thanks Matt :)

[@jaydalton97]

Emporio trying to get treats from the lady every time she touches his mouth is my life. He’s such a sweetheart 😍

[@amandasoren5918]

Only me who prefers straight bits? They are much more still in the horse’s mouth and my trotter prefers that! I really try to listen to my horse when it comes to bits. I myself ride with a Pelham bit at the moment just to help my horse since he is a trotter and he’s never been on a paddock! 😊 love your videos! This is a great and educational video it’s really good for everyone who doesn’t really know much about bits!❤️

[@janinaadriana5934]

I love them :)

[@alejandrasegura8411]

yes Matt try bitless, I know its a process, it can be hard and scary and as you said everyone should do what works best for the horse . Love seeing how much you care for your horses!

[@TheMaisiewoofwoof]

I'm so pleased he did this video. I've lost count of how many ill fitting uncomfortable bits I've seen on horses over the years and all it takes is education and the will to do better by your horse. This was great!

[@SephirothWaifu]

A bit's purpose to to cause pain and pressure in the mouth. No matter what type. Its all about the severity of pressure each bit educes. Its amazing that there are equine riders that can communicate to a horse in direction and performance by a bit less bridle man! I know the horses appreciate it. But with bits soft hands as much as possible. I think people, hell me too should put a bit in their mouth made for people to better understand how uncomfortable or painful each can be. Learning about horse behavior first I've learned it truly the way to know your horse and anticipate them in their own body language. No different with other animals. Labeling it "horse whispering" is a front or bull sh**t. Anyone can do it. I love animal behavior I want to learn as much as I can to better myself and therefore communicate with horses through riding or not riding.

[@freezer7790]

A bit was made for pressure, not pain. Bitless bridles also work on pressure, any type of riding works on pressure, but there is a big difference between good and bad pressure. Bitless can be worse and is easier to use for pain than with a bit. The nose can't handle as much pressure as the tongue can, meaning a horse going bitless will feel pain quicker than a horse on a bit. Comparing a human mouth to a horse mouth is ridiculous, they're built differently, and people who have actually put bits in their mouth and pulled back even said there was no pain. Use what's best for your horse, every horse is different, some don't like bits or some don't like bitless. I myself prefer bits but have rode in a bitless bridle.

[@rapizuly5552]

freezer it still causes a tremendous amount of pain to the horse

[@1942rita]

I am amazed at the education needed for bits! We had the smooth round bits-but they were picked by the original trainers-not my family. I like thinking they May have been anatomically sound. If I were still riding I’d have liked to ride bitless unless doing Eventing.

[@sarahlash8449]

Im planning on buying a horse again after I get out of nursing school. I have been out of the horse world for about five years and sold my dear horse to be able to go to school. these videos are helping me gain some education about important things like this that I may have forgotten. great vid

[@mackenziewood2586]

My gelding is in a 5 inch Waterford full cheek snaffle. He’s got quite a thin tongue, and doesn’t take up much space so the Waterford bubbles arent Pressing him all the time. He fights any pressure on the roof of his mouth, but is fine with tongue and bar pressure. He leaned in a single jointed, and now is amazing. We are working very nice now’

[@rustymcnitt5508]

You never disappoint me always trying g to do the right thing for your horse. Emporio is being such a patient and good boy. He is so beautiful. Thank you for sharing this experience.

[@jacquelinellewellyn85]

Hi Matt, I live in American and it is our 4th of July today. Our Independence from the British - 1776. Lots of fire works down at the White House in Washington DC this evening. "Just Saying" I want to say again that I have really enjoy watching your videos and for you to take the time to share with all of us the information and the details on bits for Emporio, but that women was making him unhappy even though he was trying to be good. I think these horse videos are educational and important for all who have horses.

[@aleishamckinley935]

I was extremely happy to see this video title! I'm very happy with the information. It is definitely going to help me find a good fit for my 4 year old I'm just starting. ❤️🤗🐎 Thank you for your channel. You are so amazing to watch. 🦄 ❤️😉

[@lorimitchell9025]

Aleisha Mckinley I would go bitless bits are abusive

[@charlieprice1469]

@@lorimitchell9025 no actually, I think you'll find bitless can actually do far more damage than bits. Also, starting a horse off bitless is a very stupid thing to do, unless they absolutely cannot stand a bit. Because A. It's quite confusing for young horses, never mind green ones. B. If your horse is prone to bolting or being strong it can cause serious injuries, and C. Your opinion shouldn't matter, the horse's history concerning their dental work and veterinary work and their own comfort matters. Many horses will choose bits over bitless any day.

[@sarcasmismyname8794]

Great job starting your horse at 4 years old! Unfortunately, too many people start them at 2 or 3 and their bones aren't even finished growing until they're 5! It's nice to see people putting their horses first and waiting until they are ready to be ridden. Good luck with your horse!

[@venla4699]

@@charlieprice1469 bits are designed to cause pain! They are so abusive no matter how you put it!

[@charlieprice1469]

@@venla4699 I don't know who taught you, but you've been taught wrong. The only bits created to cause pain are bike chain bits, thorn bits, long shanked bits, American Tom Thumbs or Saw Mouth bits, and I'm pretty sure almost all of them are American. Bitless bridles months other hand, we're created to work through pain avoidance, think of that next time you be a keyboard warrior.

[@mashley444]

Best equine videos! It’s all about the comfort of the horse. I can’t say enough about Matts knowledge of horses and and his caring nature.

[@lindanowak1502]

Matt‘s face when the lady Said: it is important to know how to messure a bit. 😂😂👍🏻

[@noralinbo7584]

Oh my gosh! What a sweet boy. I am so impressed that such a young horse and a stallion was so patient. Kudo's to you Matt! You are doing a fabulous job with him.

[@dominicweber]

Bitting is such an important and interesting theme. I personally prefer bits to bit less as chewing has direct control of the relaxation of the horse, and I can therefore influence it extremely efficiently over the bit. But finding the right bit is so important. A well-schooled horse should still always be able to go in a snaffle (the thickness may vary). But I have to admit that I love riding in a double as you can be extremely fine and precise in your aids. It also allows you more variety in your classical flexions, which are fundamental to me.

[@Robsav-yx6vi]

What a Stunning Horse . His coat is amazing. He’s so sweet loves His human. So happy to see that he has THIS human.

[@thatshot5895]

This video came in really handy since I’m looking for a new bit for my horse too! Thanks a lot for that :) If you will ever be looking for a new bridle could you please make a video about how to fit or choose the correct bridle for your horse? And again thanks a lot for your great content 🤪

[@kenzaturner4212]

Kiki and Powniess check out PS of Sweden for bridles! They are expensive but if you can’t get one they have some interesting descriptions on which type of horse suits which bridle...

[@thatshot5895]

Kenza Turner Thankyou so much! I will go check it out 😉

[@louisecassidy5991]

Bridles are easier than bits. Plenty of room for the ears, a few holes left for the cheeks, and a neat fitting throat latch. A really nice bridle that is a bit big, you can always get the buckles shifted.

[@thatshot5895]

Louise Cassidy Thankyou 💕

[@jeannereed-neidigh1192]

I was a little late in getting to this video, I'm so glad I didn't miss it entirely. This was so interesting and the young lady was so easily understandable. I wish I'd had access to her knowledge 45 years ago when I had a Cross Country Race horse of my own and Gymkhana and Trails horses for my kids. I tried hard to make life for my animals comfortable and fun. Finding a proper bit would have been so much easier with better info from the tack and equipment places I frequented. A little late for me, I know, but it's never to late to learn. Thanks for this video, for all your videos actually. Tell Jesse hello too. GB

[@colormaker9212]

Good training and teaching the horse to give easily to pressure makes bits easier to use. Bits are a communication piece and should not be used for harsh control. In my humble opinion and training experience if you have to use a harsh long shank bit with your horse, you should go back to the ground and teach your horse to give to pressure then try a softer bit again. Doing Lateral flex correctly on the ground with a halter and then vertical flex on the ground first and correctly WILL help with your horses reaction to any bit. If you are unsure what correct lateral or vertical flex is please ask for help. It is important to release pressure at the correct time in order for horses to learn. Thanks Matt for this video it confirmed the technical side that I have tested on my own. I always like to watch you and your friends in all the videos you do. Bye the way, I bought a trick training book because of you and your silly friends. I know it will be very fun to try extra fun stuff with the horses too young yet to ride and the older ones that already know it all plus I have a pony that I think will like the extra.

[@larinvermont3271]

Compared to Chase, Emporio always looks small! By the end, Emporio was thoroughly over the whole procedure.

[@tamboaniscenko6979]

Very interesting and useful! Love your videos very educational would like a video about fitting a saddle will be interesting!

[@rosiemae3436]

🤪🤩

[@rosiemae3436]

🤔😻👻

[@louisecassidy5991]

Tambo Aniscenko ....my old Aussie stock saddle seems to fit everything!

[@louisecassidy5991]

Matt, I think this is one of the best videos you have done. I have a "thing" about bits, and hands. I do like a D bit, which this new one is. and also a real egg butt, with the rings egg shaped and not round. The bit then hangs in the mouth more horizontally. But we can do even better. Remember the FM? With little tabs which held the mouthpiece horizontal? An ordinary ring snaffle hangs vertically, encouraging the horse to try his tongue over it. Remember the Spanish snaffle or Kimblewick? I preferred these, would take the curb hooks off a jointed one, and use it as a snaffle, same thing really as the FM, mouth piece horizontal. Now there is a new one, the Baucher, with various mouth pieces, ordinary jointed, double like this new one of yours, and also one with a roller, sort of loose-ish but it cannot fold up and pinch. No idea if it is dressage-approved, but it is a snaffle. I use one, it solved a lot of (someone else's) issues. The strap on the (is it Hanoverian?) noseband is to prevent the mouth opening, the tongue going over, and those sorts of avoidance habits some horses develop. We used to see the "dropped noseband" but I've never had to use either, gets back to the right bit and light hands. I'd rather see them gone. Congratulations. Emporio has a lovely temperament. Sorry to hear he has been sore. If you can ride out, take him for some long slow walk and jog rides so he can relax and you can enjoy each-other. Thank you for this video.

[@thesoulfulequine9308]

I use a D bit of most my horses! Never had a problem with them!

[@kmil1967]

Enjoying your videos as always, and it was nice to see Emporio is so relaxed with you and he looks so beautiful! Yes, I immediately thought that the 2nd bit was more ideal for him and had a better fit than the first one.Thanks, Matt & Jesse for sharing all these videos of your life's journey with us!!

[@rosiemae3436]

I rode bareback today (4/7/2019) It was so much fun love this video btw

[@saradenhollander3768]

If you decide going bit less I highly recommend making your own bit less bridle. The commercial ones are very painful for horses or give confusing aides. At least that is the way it is here in Canada. All you do is take the cavesson (bridle nose band and head piece) and attach the reins to the noseband and head piece joint. Fit the nose band snuggly so it doesn’t rub the nose raw or cover the nose section with halter fleece. You now have a bit less bridle from tack in your tack room.

[@0fluu0]

I did 2 bit fittings for my own horse, twice. The size of their lips also influence the size of the bit. My horse has BIG lips so a big bit left no room for him. We tried many on, and the horse then shows which he likes best. Most people assume that smaller bits are sharper, but that doesnt have to be true if the horse doesnt have the SPACE in the mouth to fit a bigger one. It really depends on the shape of the mouth, as well as the rider. For my horse, he loved a tiny double jointed bit but a year later I did another fitting where he chose one of those white rubbery sticks if you know what I mean. Now I just looked at it and every few weeks if he were to let me know that he didnt like it anymore, I'd change depending on how he reacted to it. Moral of the story is: get a KNOWLEDGABLE bit fitter, and TRY them out while riding, switch them a few times within the same ride so you can feel the difference and your horse can help you pick. Also: Do not believe descriptions off informational sites on their face value, not every small bit has to be a sharp bit. If it doesn't fit your horses mouth, it's fine to go with a less thick but without it then instantly being "omg what a sharp bit". ♥ I hope everyone takes this into consideration. Happy riding, everyone!!!

[@HannaFardew]

Emporio: Lady, will you stop messing with my mouth? I've been taught not to bite but if you keep doing that, I will

[@jaydalton97]

Hanna Fardew For a stallion he seems to well mannered I’m jealous af

[@louisecassidy5991]

I thought he took the whole thing extremely well. When you change a bit, the horse crunches and gets to know it. The double linked ones are much softer, he was testing it out, see what he could do with it.

[@HannaFardew]

@@louisecassidy5991 he was also moving his head away, meaning he did not like it. He is well mannered for a horse, but all horses have their limit

[@MrDarcy-OlMan]

I learnt so much from this video; thank you! Excellent 👍🏼👍🏼❤️

[@josephhall1641]

you impress me because you care so much for the good of the horse.keep up the good work.

[@DelilahZoe]

I kinda am interested in the "rubber" bits -- no metal banging on the teeth or gums sounds divine!

[@freezer7790]

properly fitted bits shouldnt bang against teeth unless there is interference or misuse.

[@lillerella]

Maybe an FEI disclaimer on bits for dressage for the non dressage riders might move the fairyfolk along?

[@luguy8347]

I love Emporio. I always wonder what a horse is thinking/taking in, in any given situation. The minute details makes such a huge difference. Wonderfully interesting.

[@goldendressage237]

Excellent choice!! I have ended up using a Sprenger Dynamic RS on both my PRE Stallions, and KK on my Lusitano and Warmblood.... Really interesting to see such an experienced fitter!

[@Wolfswind003]

If you use a bit that can’t bend the pressure distributes easier and more evenly on the horses tongue. You can do the test bu taking one of the bits you have, put it over your flat hand and try to hold around 2Kg hanging from said bit (which is about the weight a rider puts on the horses mouth, by keeping contact). You will realize those pits are more painful than ones that can’t bend.

[@Doryplory]

Emporio is such a beautiful horse 🥰😍

[@jessicabella5762]

Love sprenger bits. My favorite, also really like Myler bits

[@cassidyb195]

This was great! I've always wanted to get a horse when i'm older :D!

[@tschaytschay4555]

Me too, but I can't afford one :'(

[@Annikasmummy]

same but i would never put a bit in my horses mouth.. thats why i have a bitless bridle for my lease horse

[@tamaradeklein1017]

@@Annikasmummy you would never? Not even if your horse benefits from it more then without bit? That would be selfish, every horse reacts different.

[@venla4699]

@@tamaradeklein1017 why would you put something in horses mouth that is designed do cause pain?

[@synnesilentweb]

Me too! But I AM older now haha. Hopefully I’ll be able to be near horses when I start university

[@user-yz7ds7rn9b]

Matt, excellent video! Anxious to hear how bit works for you and Emporio! Bet you can tell a difference in horse response to aids.

[@aremedyproject9569]

I like the old original Myler bits. (Before they started making them in Asia. The quality and original shape was better.;) Bits made from sweet iron are nice for the horses because they taste good. Yes, I have tasted many bits lol. If you taste stainless steel it’s very bitter. When you compare the taste of bits it can be surprising. Aluminum in a bit is drying. Iron is wetting. Sorry, but I’m not a fan of flash nose bands. It just looks to me like someone needs to clamp the mouth shut (even more?). I dunno. They can affect how the nostrils function too. I have seen horse’s breathing (ability to inhale and exhale through the nose) affected. Watch some as they work harder. I think horses like to blow sometimes too. I just imagine my nostrils being restricted in any way and I feel constricted or congested. Maybe that’s just me though? As well, I find some horses prefer to carry their bits lower or higher than other horses. This can depend on the length of their bars. And/or the length of their bars ether in relation or proportion to the rest of their head or just with the length and thickness of just their lips. It can be enlightening to experiment on your horse with the bit’s height placement and see the effect on his feeling and carriage in response to your cues. This is just my personal experience mind you:) Cheers. 😊

[@leak1755]

I always ride bitless, so I habe absolutely no idea about bits but the video is very informative so I learned a lot 😂

[@pattyinsandiego8573]

Thank you Matt. This was a very good video, she pointed out some very interesting information regarding the the ergo shape of the bits and I've yet to see anyone explain it so simply. Keep up the good work.

[@anneschneider7988]

Hey Matt, i really enjoyed this Video. It is very informative and you can learn something new. I use the Sprenger KK Ultra bit and almost every horse likes it. Kind regards from germany

[@reesew4614]

Anne Schneider.....nice

[@MissJody100]

Emporio was so over it, still chill for a young stallion but seemed slightly agitated. Guess I'd be too if someone kept put things in mouth. The rep from Sprenger was excellent.

[@vickycaldicott945]

Thats why I ride bitless 🙃

[@Chloe-eu1ts]

@@vickycaldicott945 same xx

[@thesoulfulequine9308]

he was not uncomfortable because of the bits. He is a young horse, and young horses find it hard to stand very still with no entertainment for long periods of time. He was not in pain from the bit, nor uncomfortable.

[@sarahrusseii4166]

Fun fact: Bit-less can also agitate a horse

[@RunOnBarbaro]

@@sarahrusseii4166 definitely! especially if not used properly or fitted right!!

[@mirkatu3249]

Emporio was so patient during this process.

[@Neusix062]

Thank you! For bring up the importance of a relaxed happy mouth..

[@debrab2219]

That horse has such a nice nature and so chill. Keep up the good work with your horses. I love watching your videos.

[@freyawainwright7364]

I had my bit and bridle professionally fitted and it was the best thing I did for my mare she's so much happier.

[@Summerbe550]

Very helpful information and well explained. I love the Sprenger turnado bit for my horses. They fit perfectly and there is a good connection to horses‘ mouth.

[@TheWatanna]

I sat here chuckling to myself. I love the way young girls look at Matt as if they are going to melt.lol. I really enjoyed learning about the different bits for horses. Thank you for posting.

[@fellie_may]

Thank you! It was very interesting and informative Would be great to see, how to fit the perfect bridle to your horse c:

[@DM-is4wr]

Great mix of fun and educational vids Matt 😊

[@littlegreymtz118]

Hello another great video I will confess I don't have a horse but I love watching your videos I would love to have one but can't but I get to see you and Jesse and all of your horses and the way you take good care of them . Wish more people would do the same but you I think are making a difference

[@lizsurbanroost3624]

Thank you for this very informative video, I usually rode in what we call a Beetle Hackamore here, basically a hackamore created for barrel racing and the like. It is nice to have a great easy to understand video for fitting a bit because there is no guarantee that my next horse will work well with the hackamore I have, or the bit I have, so I am saving this video to help me if I should ever need it :) Also, Good gracious Emporio is so beautiful, he's such a calm stallion too, I do hope he never loses that gentleness

[@healingsprings11]

Interesting and very nice to see Emporeo . He was pretty chill and as always Handsome !! 🐴

[@fionajane56]

It’s so good to see Emporio. He is such a lovely horse. Th information is very helpful too.

[@scheheherazadem.3802]

I would love to see you ride bearback! It's so much fun and very interesting to see others do it. Especially if it's their first time.

[@shannongiles2186]

I used to have a horse who was terribly abused (by previous owners before me) where they left a halter on as a foal and never took it off...as she grew the halter got embedded into her skin and fur and everything grew over the top. Due to this as an older horse when she was removed and we owned her, she would NOT allow anything on her nose. No halter, no bitless bridle, no hackmore. So because of this, the only way to ride her was in a Bit. Some horses need a bit for certain reasons. Not saying bits are great at all, but some (like my old horse) needed it.

[@lclarke7280]

I LOVE Sprenger bits!! I use KK Ultra, B cheek piece ( boucher)

[@danielasmale8835]

Thank you. The measuring explanation was helpful.

[@cameron.d1560]

I love this channel need more uploads

[@riawon9626]

I really like this kind of content. Looking forward to see more.

[@Open2OpenUT]

What a great video! Very informative and interesting. Emporio is looking very majestic, that neck curve is really showing now, he is growing into a wonderful young Stallion.

[@gregory3588]

Please keep these educational videos coming👍🏻👍🏻

[@sandybradley4218]

Great video Matt, learned alot and having been riding since 1974, sadly no more, never learnt any of that at Pony club or at my local riding schools so thank you so much

[@LeslieNikulka]

Wow! Very educational. Thank you for sharing. 🐎

[@Pferdeclique]

I'm also with the argument that everyone should decide individually whats the best bit for the own horse. I personally only use straight bits because they spread the pressure evenly over the tungue. Two-part or three-part bits causing the most pressure at the right and left side of the tungue and kind of squeeze it and unfortunately the connecting part presses into the palate.. You can test it on yourself if you hold your own bit in your hand...You should always keep in mind that riding with a bit always ALWAYS has something to do with causing pressure and pain. Its depending on how much and in what kind of way. If you want to absolutly produce no pressure you have to go bitless. And thats the point of responsibility.

[@SpottedLeafy]

Bitless relies on pressure too though... Just on pressure points on the face, rather than in the mouth.

[@s-9889]

Pressure is not the same as pain. When you use it properly your horse doesn't feel pain.

[@Pferdeclique]

Yes of course but you have also to admit that sometimes pressurse and pain are close together

[@James_Benn1031]

Not a fan of bits, but I'm glad that this video has educated me on different types of bit and how they aren't all as invasive and 'Abusive' as some equestrians make them out to be. Awesome video.

[@Horsein]

Here's a bit of information, when a horse works the same routine day in day out, his joint will suffer. Very much like humans carpel tunnel. So work them different every other day. Go for a trail ride.

[@ClassicalPianoisMyJam]

Horsein that and the horse was two when he was started to be ridden with full adult weight.

[@louisecassidy5991]

I would trail ride him all the time, and do about 10 minutes of flat work about once a week, at the end of a trail ride. Depends whether you want a HORSE or a carousel horse.

[@AntimonyxAngel]

Emporio is the most beautiful horse I've ever seen ❤❤❤ after mine of course 😂 Thanks for this video it was very informative!

[@thesoulfulequine9308]

Bitless is not at all better. First the pressure is on the hard tissue and not evened out over the face. More pressure too. That can easily mean more pain than with a bit. Not to mention far more nerves are in the face compared to the mouth. Its also harder to get the horse to frame bitless, and that’s bad for the back and neck when they get older. I can go on for hours about this. Both can be bad. There is no difference, but I personally recommend a snaffle to my clients, And I have never met a horse that dislikes bits. I have seen ones that hate bitless thought. It’s the personal preference for the horse. So if you know nothing about other people’s horses, don’t recommend bitless. It is sad how much I have had to copy and paste this. Bitless is not always better. Both have flaws. In my years of being a horse trainer, I have literally encountered people using bitless coming to me to ask why the horse was acting up. I chucked a snaffle in the mouth, and he was fine. Because people don’t realise how much pressure in one part of the face bitless enforces. I actually own that horse now. (Long story) and he loves being ridden. In a KK bit. 😱🤯 I have never met a horse that dislikes bits if you have soft/medium hands. With bitless there is no such thing as soft hands.

[@Dixiwonderlandyoutube]

Emporio is so beautiful ❤️ Love videos that we get to learn so much.

[@kmatt7854]

Fantastic video! Thanks Matt!

[@saffa_vanessa]

I wish I could have a bit fitted for my green Percheron gelding. He needs either a 6.5 inch or 7 inch... 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@saffa_vanessa]

rachel wright maybe for others it’s easy to have done. But for me it’s not. The only bit fitters are the other side of the country. One is like 8 hours away and the other is close to 16 hours away. Both expensive flights. Try living in a 3rd world country where everything is hellishly expensive.

[@randomstranger6577]

Jeez, my pony only has 4.5 inch

[@saffa_vanessa]

Random Stranger lol. I’ve gone from average 5 inch horse mouths to a 4.5 inch for my mare and the big ones for my new boy. I spent my last cent just getting him to my stable yard so yeah 😅 trying to save up for a bit fitter. Luckily I know what shape he needs, but the size needs to be perfect. If it’s too big he’s grumpy, if it’s too small and pinches then he rears. So yeah, atm he’s going in a hackamore (even though he’s not happy with it).

[@daggidina3446]

Emporio is so calm oh my goodness o.o I love his personality ^.^

[@theIdamay]

This was great! Learned so much! More learning please!

[@emmasvensson1756]

I absolutely think everyone doing the best for their horse of course but i still have a comment to this because I really like to talk about this and learn more. But no horse is really built for have a bit in the mouth and the good thing is that she is aware of that the horse doesn’t have much space in the mouth. But even though you don’t think the bit hurt the horse because the horse doesn’t show any pain but it’s more like inside the horse and you can’t always see that and especially when you actually ride rough with you’re hand it can become more problem in the horses mouth. And I think if you don’t want to stop with bit you can use both because that’s better then just using bit all the time, and yes bitless can hurt the horse but not as much as bit. And people that says that you can break the nose bone, you actually need to kin of smash and smash if you want it to break.

[@emmasvensson1756]

uhm. uhm. But if you look at facts and research it the bit that’s bad and the bitless is good it isn’t any research that says bits are good. And There are many videos that show how a bitless bridle work and if you are heavy handed it can cause problem with bit and bitless. But the mouth is in the horses face? And that mouth is actually very sensitive and the place where the bit is placed there it is a sharp bone that is used for when they eating and if the bit has pressure against that it can be harder for the horse to eat. And that trainer was probably very harsh and not everyone is that and you don’t should have to even use your hands that much because you can also control you’re horse with seat and not the bridle. An who says the horse likes a bit, if you test yourself it isn’t so nice to have a metal pice in you’re mouth and so it feels for the horse to. And ppl actually think with a pice of metal you can have contact, no the best way would be just to ride without bridle because then it isn’t any pressure and the horse can Choose how they want to go with their neck.

[@emmasvensson1756]

uhm. I agree on the first part but still they both cause pain but would you want more or less pain? Less... so bitless gives pain to but not in the same level as bitt.🤷🏽‍♀️

[@fionasomoreau3230]

Very interesting! Thank you for sharing information that will help horses to feel comfortable 💜

[@Gushara]

This was just the information I needed....thank you!

[@adreanasherman9693]

I love your videos Matt and grateful for what I have learned being a new horse owner for a 2nd time(years ago was the 1st time) and also for how entertaining they have been. However, this one was misleading for me. The title was The best bit for your horse(or something like that). Yet it really focused on your horse. Am I old school stating snaffle bit, vs curb bit? I want to change to a snaffle bit like those shown, but am leary. My horse has a thick tongue and have only owned him for 6 months and have ridden him with a curb bit (he is sensitive 5 yr old) and with a no bit bridle in central america. I wanted to know if maybe a bit like those shown in your video might be better. I am afraid to change things because he is quite spunky and is a dancer so I need to be able to control him, yet noticed he is not fond of the bit, but is more controlable with the bit and I feel safer vs the bitless bridle. However would a snaffle type bit as shown be more comfortable for my horse? Also I have seen some snaffle bits with a roller thingy that might be more interesting for him as he is smart and quite independent and might keep him interested or occupied with it in his mouth? And lastly, having never changed the bit from curb type which he has to this snaffle type...Is it hard for them to get used to, and still just as controlable? With his thick tongue I was also thinking of changing to a snaffle type bit before watching this video. Loved the safari vids and brought back beautiful memories having done so alone with a guide. Thanking you and Yessie and all who have helped inform us. Btw you could not be more spot on about the connection you develop with your horse.❤

[@EXROBOWIDOW]

Now that Emporio has his new bit, where's the video clip showing how he reacts when he's worked with it?

[@sorrynotsorry8098]

All I knew about fitting bits before this is a pinky width should be on each side of the mouth and the cheek piece on the bridle should be tight enough so there is two wrinkles in the corner of the mouth

[@cindynoble2037]

Thank you Matt and Dieke🐴🐴🐴