HOW TO FIT A BRIDLE | MY FAVOURITE BITS AND BRIDLES

[@sparklesandmagic]

A few minutes in & chuckling. “I personally try not to fly off my horse” 🤣🥰 I recently had a bit & bridle specialist out very much for the reasons at the beginning. So pleased as my bridle is mix and matched from the horsemanship saddlery & my horse was instantly and visibly happier when we found the right combination. Fab video & important topic 👍🏻👍🏻

[@sandraobenchain8274]

OMG, what a wonderful vlog about bridles... I learned so much... We have had our off the track retired thoroughbred racehorse for 8 months now and he has been grinding his teeth and started throwing his head and recently has become horrible about his ears. We have had the vet out to do his teeth and check his ears and now I have a new Avenue to explore... He is like no other horse I have had... I had my daughter riding him bareback with a halter and lead shanks with no problem and our trainer said all of his equipment was “fine “. I have never seen bridles like the ones you have shown, we are in the USA and I hope we have bridles like that here !!!

[@mdee860]

Thinking your trainer is wrong. Does s/he have training/ experience worth race horses??? They prefer sniffles. Hmmm

[@sophiebull6478]

I find it quite difficult to get good information about correct bridle and bit fit so this was incredibly useful! Thank you so much Miri, you are making fantastic videos, I am so glad to have found you :)

[@kateseery8842]

Amazing video! This is such an interesting and important topic and is definitely not talked about enough!

[@mdee860]

So true Kate! Just as important as a proper fitting saddle. America is far behind the times w/ both saddle & bridle fitting education.

[@RedMareDiva]

LOVE this! My husband and I have had so many conversations about bridle fit and why it isn't talked about more. Thank you for making this video!

[@chloel7224]

Thank you for doing this video. 💜 So important to keep our horses comfortable x

[@benitascott3533]

Lovely video! Well articulated & interesting. I like your thoughtful perspective & lovely looking horses in a couple of videos I've now watched! Thankyou 🐴🐎🐴🙏

[@mdee860]

Really great video Miri 👏👏👏 This, and your saddle fitting video are so important. I'm thrilled that the tack industry has moved away from focusing solely on rider comfort to a horse-centric approach. About time & yaaaay for the horses! ♥️🐴🥕 Great job & so educational. Many thanks 👍

[@ctadventures7064]

Very interesting. I got a new bridle for my daughters pony. He wasn't happy with it shaking his head. So we have gone back to his old bridle that he's more comfortable with.

[@jorio1006]

Best video on the subject I have seen for a long time….you have a wonderful sense and clarity and flow to your explorations and because you demonstrate things visually and practically …. The information is easier to absorb (and remember). Just subscribed …..glad to have found you 😀

[@lizroberts1569]

Thanks I’ve just changed both of my horses bridles, I too have the micklem and I’ve also bought another two neue schule bits as my previous boy went so well in his. Great to have a bit of confirmation I’m on the right track.

[@LucyLoom]

Such a helpful video and important topic to talk about, i learned a lot! Thank you so much!

[@halletansley]

Very helpful video, I've just started full loaning a new horses and never really understood the differences in bridles but this has helped a lot to find one that suits him and myself, thank you :)

[@DaisyDunn18]

So glad you got round to making this video 😁 happy I'm already looking at the correct things for my girl, super interesting to see the different bridles needed for different horses though! Great vid 👍🏻

[@lauren_duclos]

When you mentioned on instagram that you were filming this video I definitely thought you were doing a “bridal” fitting video where you tried on wedding dresses 😂😂🤦🏽‍♀️

[@meganhallequestrian1541]

My horse Obi is so sensitive in his head we had Celina come out and the difference in him is amazing. I love my horsemanship orbit bit and bridle and it’s so important the bridle fits just as well as any other piece of tack or equipment! Xx

[@buckleyboy0999]

Please do noseband sand the different types and what they used for! Loved this so informative! Thank you keep it up😘

[@frank9345]

I’m in the market for a new bridle so remembered your video! It’s great to watch this when I’m actually wanting to buy a bridle

[@paolopiccirillo6760]

Thanks a lot for your explanation Very interesting,you love snaffle

[@mdee860]

Snaffles are the kindest. It should be a goal to get there. If you have to have a stronger bit, either the horse's mouth has been damaged or need more ground training. Except dressage still mandates double rein bridles 🤯

[@user-zc9gw8gj1h]

I bought a bridle for my horse that I hate but couldn't figure out what it was I didn't like about it (he just seems uncomfortable). This video was really helpful for me trying to find a better fitting piece of tack for him! Thanks for breaking the information down in a way that's easy to understand-now I have a few ideas for what to look for in his next bridle.

[@CourtneyBlythe]

Its been a year but I'm wondering how did it go for you? 🥰

[@tuuli4117]

Great video! Definitely gonna check my horses bridle. One note I would also mention is to measure horses mouth while looking for bits. My horse used 14,5cm bit but I didn't feel like it fitted well and when he got to dentist (vet) we measured his mouth. Yeppp his mouth was about 16,2cm which means needing 16,5cm bit... I was using way too small bit even though it looked ok on him. Also with three link bits it is very important that the middle link doesn't put pressure on horses lower jaw. My horse got a big mouth but his jaw bones were narrow about 3cm and guess what my three link snaffles middle part was also 3cm which is a no no cause it will sit right on those delicate jaw bones and put too much pressure when used. It should be over 3cm or under for him. Good thing is that I was wise enough to take measurements and not go by the hunch or look only. Still testing bits since finding that big of a bit is quite hard. He goes with normal snaffle now (instead of three link) but I'm not sure he likes it but maybe we can test our bridle fit if the problem is there instead of the bit now. Also there is a study about bits which suggest to change the bits frequently so the pressure wouldn't target always on the same place and cause damage. (Like I find it hard to find normal snaffle in size 16,5cm and I should have multiple more bits for change of pressure points.. if you aren't fitting and spending money on saddles then it is bits!) Thank you for this vid! It was much needed!

[@mdee860]

Tuuli - interesting study you found & it makes sense. Thx for sharing. Maybe try the rubber bit like they have for Tilly? Miri said he has a huge head & a very sensitive mouth. Just a thought, good luck & t/you (from your horse) for caring! 😁♥️🐴🥕👍♥️🐎

[@according2her]

This is amazing, thank you so much for sharing all your knowledge. I am far away from working with horses not to mention owning one, but I want to one day and seeking to learn as much as I can. This helps a lot, so thank you :)

[@SmazticCrab]

Loved this video, Miri. Thanks so much.

[@margiesmith8912]

Loved this! Im currently working out bits for my horse. This was so helpful!!

[@sophiaredlen7489]

Been waiting very patiently for this video!

[@juliajulesiscool684]

Loved this video I’m just about to purchase one for my Connemara so perfect timing 👌🏼

[@katharinastumpf1258]

Thank you for this super infomative video :) I was looking for an eplaination about a well fitting bridle for so long especially how it looks on horses! Looking forward to more great videos like this

[@glitterpuss1]

Great video :) I’ve got a my youngster in a horsemanship saddlery bridle with a full cheek snaffle and he loves it! Have just gone bitless with my veteran as he’s 30 and had all his front teeth removed and he’s finding that really comfortable too.

[@hackettequine2059]

Well done for listening xx

[@hackettequine2059]

To your horses I mean not me 😆

[@lisasarson6660]

Wow so helpful thank you> Having a few questions with my horse at the moment so this has really helpedand I will definitely follow you from now.

[@droneshorses]

Great advices! Thank you! 🙂

[@lizgarland2241]

So so informative. Thank you. Love smd Light 🍀💚🍀

[@TarynAnnTibble]

You come as if called! I’ve just bought my old man a new bridle, he’s started shaking his off, so I’m trying something with a more ergonomic poll piece. Of course now I’m terrified I’ve made a purchase not 100% in line with his needs, but time will tell! Will definitely be referring back here when it arrives in the week.

[@mdee860]

Taryn - can you exchange if it's uncomfortable for your horse?

[@TarynAnnTibble]

@@mdee860 no, but I rode him in it on Saturday and for the first time had him on the contact, and really moving, so I think we have a winner!

[@mdee860]

@@TarynAnnTibble - wow, so happy for you... & your 🐴. So glad you're both much happier now!

[@TarynAnnTibble]

@@mdee860 Thank you! I am now in the process of having a new bit fitted. Even if he's old, and seen it all, done it all, doesn't mean he can't do it in style and comfort.

[@mdee860]

@@TarynAnnTibble - so happyvyou care so much! 🥰 You're a great horse Mom!!! 👏👏👏

[@fionabrennan1052]

Wonderful video! I’m now going to go apply this information to my mare so I can get a new bridle that works for her!

[@lu6176]

Can you do a similar video with boots ? X

[@hackettequine2059]

Yes sure x

[@anabeljarvis2195]

Informative video brilliant love your channel ❤️

[@karenb.9281]

Loved this, super informative thx😊👍

[@jacquiepitfield9805]

Interesting video. It is important the bridle fits the horse comfortably, as you say there are so many pressure points, nerves and blood vessels and horses come in all shapes and sizes. I'm constantly surprised by how some riders are so strong/rough with their reins. Sawing away to try to steady or stop their horses with little though for the pain element. The whole body is supposed to work in harmony. Definitely a good fitting and overall kinder bridle is a much nicer way to ride. Bitless isn't for everyone but love them.

[@daniellereekie9191]

Great video 😊 Can I ask, do you use cheek keepers when breaking a youngster in the double jointed fulmer snaffle?

[@furrymonsters4337]

Love this video, thank you! I’m not happy with how my Cob’s bridle fits, there’s a lot going on and I don’t think she likes her but very much. She’s new, I have her 3 weeks now and she does this weird thing with her mouth. Anyway, this might be why. Thanks again ❤️

[@mdee860]

I bet you're right - but, it could also be a combo of issues. Trust your instincts, if you "think" she's not happy, you're most likely correct. Start at the top ( pole area) and move down from there with this video on. Once you've checked all of the outside leather & if they're correctly fitted, then you'll know it's the bit! Good luck & thank you for caring about your horse's comfort. Like Miri said - once you find the proper bridle & bit you will see good changes in horse, & your horse will ♥️ you for trying to make it as comfortable as possible for her. 👍

[@hattiemartin751]

Hey could you make a video of your horses routines, how you organise everything etc love your vids

[@briiigiiijaureguiii]

THANK YOU!!!! I started riding again months ago after decades of absence. Also when younger I ride western and now I'm riding English. I memorized all tack as a girl but am less familiar with these bridles. While they aren't rocket science to put on, I have been feeling a slight pang every time I latch them up. I appreciate your presentation very much and the detail you provide. I'm especially enjoying your horse thoughtfulness as you are the first person I've seen to mention the horse's anatomy and sensitivity. Most other videos I've watched have been performance focused and did not mention the head shape individuality or the nerves of the horse. I have a question I've not found an answer to yet. When leading a bridled horse with a lead rope(when children are first learning) I've seen the lead attached to the bridle. To me, this seems like a lot of pressure and conflicting pressure at that. Do you have any thoughts? Should there be a halter on over the bridle to attach the lead or under? Am I overthinking this perhaps? Thank you.

[@rowanstaden-coats8157]

Loved this video, super informative. More like this please! Saddle fitting?

[@celinebnnelykke629]

Thanks so much for this, was so useful!! I see you've got more bits added to your collection, would you do a new video of your new bits? Love to hear and learn more!

[@warmbloodsx2129]

Thank you for doing this video, there really should be more bridle fitters not just saddle fitters, too many horses uncomfortable/in pain in their mouths

[@TamaraHesselman]

Very informative! My mare is extremely fussy with her bit and bridle. It took me years to find something she tolerates but I haven’t found the perfect fit yet. I have the schockemohle equitus beta that fits really nice but she hates the flash. Maybe one day we will get there.

[@lisajames4150]

Thank you so much. Incredibly informative 😀

[@donnajeffery8267]

Thank you for this very informative vlog when I started with horses it was a case of yes get your saddle fitted but you just brought a bridle of the shelf so to speak then just brought different nose bands and brow bands etc and as for getting a bit that your horse likes and goes better in etc non of that it was have you got enough brakes for what your doing does it fit in there mouth then your ok so thank you to opening my eyes to the kinder way of tack for your horse shall we say

[@janniw.7068]

Loved this video. My horse is a Norwegian Fjordhorse and they often have small but broad heads and since I changed to a micklem she is so much more comfortable. It’s now been 3 years (I think) and it’s still our best choice. I wish you would have shown yours on Obi - maybe you have a perspective on fitting it that I haven’t thought about 😊

[@hackettequine2059]

Sorry I will be sure to do that over on my Instagram xx

[@michellebainbridge1823]

Very informative video. Thankyou for doing it

[@scarletragevintage4353]

Super video!! I wondered - where did you get the clip pieces to swap the bits easily? Been looking for ages and none the wiser. Thank you

[@shannonsteven808]

Really informative! Thanks!

[@daughterandprincess]

Super interesting!!

[@Lietjesmarket]

Lovely video I have been tweeking things with my horse over the years. Changed the bit recently and this is what she needs now. Went from a d trens to a eggbutt from sprenger the sengogan material she seems to like. I have her in a low German nose strap seem te be the only one she likes it has been handmade for her. 🙈 I often get comments on that but hey if she wants that then fine. Good fit and not to tight is very important. I also ride bitless do you have experience with that?

[@francesca2003]

Hi, do the quick clip cheek pieces come from horsemanship saddlery? If not, where did you get them from as I'd like a horsemanship bridle with those cheek pieces. Thanks

[@hannahwolstenholme3996]

Thanks this was really interesting! So I heard you explaining why the straight cheekpiece bits and eggbutts are useful for steering and giving more consistent contact, but what are the benefits to the loose ring bits? I love watching your videos, I learn so much every time 😊

[@hackettequine2059]

The movement they create can help mouthing and acceptance of the bit. It’s a fine line between too much movement for the young horses and not enough. This is why I like the variety of bits that then suit lots of different horses x

[@giselleedge826]

super video very informative!!

[@angelfoodcake1979]

What sparkly browband did you put on your Micklem?

[@patchyxx]

I have been assuming that the bit clips (instead of leather loops) would bother a horse more because they are metal and may make an unpleasant sound. The addition of the leather tab for the clip to rest on is really nice, though! Many western bridles I see have clips, but the metal clip also touches the horse's face.

[@NoThankUBeQuiet]

My horse wouldn't like it because it would be more inconsistent. Much like snaps on the reins

[@kippen64]

If you are not in the UK, check with your national organisation as to which bridles are legal for competition. In Australia, Equestrian Australia insists on throatlatches. Thanks for this video. Headshaking is a condition that can happen when the horse doesn't have anything on their head. So if your horse headshakes when ridden, it might not be the bridle. Your horse might be a headshaker. It's a terrible and frustrating condition to deal with. My horse is a photic headshaker.

[@matthewparsons28]

Is there a bridle that you recommend for trail riding

[@alexa.equestrian]

What brand is the brown jumper bridle?

[@lisajames4150]

I like the Micklem but would prefer it it had a cavesson rather than the drop noseband.

[@hackettequine2059]

Have a look at the schockemohl gamma bridle that’s the one similar to the Miklem x

[@riseagain0130]

The nose band puts no pressure on the poll because it is free to move upwards.

[@naunettemartin7450]

Can I ask you want kind of bit can use win ride ing my horse thank you Nannette

[@alyssaequestrian3465]

Just a question my horse throws her head in the air and has a mini temper tantrum is it because of her bridle or my riding it’s a western bridle btw so I don’t really know any other styles of western bridle

[@naunettemartin7450]

I like your video and I like you video that you and can I ask you can you ride your horse and can you do a video how to counter to a horse thank you Nannette

[@qalab_abbas]

Which breed is that?

[@warmbloods8260]

Irrelevant but your hair is lovely 🙂

[@dinawolyniec5160]

Enjoy the video but for some reason the sound was quiter than normal. I had to raise my sound volume up to 70..which is not normal. I never had this with any of your other videos.

[@hackettequine2059]

Thanks for the tip I’ll be sure to make my next video louder xx

[@AvalancheCleo]

I will say that the Micklem doesn't work for every horse, my last mare absolutely hated it. She got really pissed off at it.

[@loredelore7286]

The bit sits on the bars inside the mouth between the teeth spacing and have nothing to do with one or two wrinkles. This is different on every horse.

[@Benicetoyourparents]

Love this video! Thank you. Got my horse a year ago, using a cheap old school bridle. Have been researching bridles, and now waiting delivery of my ergonomic and padded bridle! Fingers crossed it fits her, but I know I’ll have more of an opinion now! Thanks again!!