I TRIED RIDING MY DRAFT HORSE BITLESS AND…

Hey Horse Lovers! 🦄🤩💖GASTON is my 11 YO, 16hh, Canadian Draft Horse. He is super forward, fun, yet very gentle. In today's video I'm going to try riding him BITLESS for the first time ever! I have no idea how he will respond. We will see how he likes the bridle and if he understands cues. The best part is I will be riding him in a Bitless Side Pull that I designed! Follow along to see what happens during our session. Enjoy the ride!
IF YOU ENJOY MY CONTENT SUBSCRIBE!
EMAIL: [e-mail]
HEATED VEST: ORORO (20% OFF using this link)
ororo.refr.cc/shaemanning91
AMAZON WISH LIST:
www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls...
THE SPIRITED HORSE-AN EQUESTRIAN THEMED BOUTIQUE:
thespiritedhorseboutique.com/
CHECK OUT MORE FREE SPIRIT EQUESTRIAN:
freespiritequestrian.carrd.co/
FREE SPIRIT EQUESTRIAN MERCH! 🦄🤩💖 Link Below:
free-spirit-equestrian.myspre...
Website: freespiritfarm.info/
TikTok: vm.tiktok.com/ZMRED8joM/

[@rodandjudibowen5665]

Shae, Gaston is marvelous and is getting to be a Star in his own right! I just love his canter. No wonder he doesn't want to stop -- He knows how great he looks! Bright red is definitely his best color. Wahoo! 🤠🐎❣

[@freespiritequestrian]

HA I like the way you think!!!! ❤️

[@candicerunyon2762]

Can't help but think that all horse's need and deserve bitless . Very nice that the primary focus is on comfort and appearance and style secondary. Go Shae!

[@nancyj.8203]

yes! bitless! Its so much kinder than the pain/pressure/discomfort bits accomplish. Well done on your own design. Love also how you bond with them, its so important for the trust factor. Horses need a leader with love! ❤️😉🐴 from S. NH

[@seanmueller556]

I love the padded crown! Such a nice touch--he did great bit-less. Makes one wonder why we use bits on horses that are willing partners.....

[@freespiritequestrian]

Thank you!

[@rosemary702001]

Sometimes your horses nod or shake their heads as if they’re listening and understand what your conversation is saying! They know their commands and they agree with your teaching content!! I love seeing their personalities shine as they stand beside you.

[@g3ponyqueen]

As a Canadian, Gaston is definitely one of my favourites (don't tell the others, haha). Great ride, he did so well in the new bridle :)

[@freespiritequestrian]

Ha!!! Love it. Thanks 😊

[@junebyrne4491]

I just adore him. But I confess I love which ever one I am watching.

[@ninakaiser2930]

First of all - the bridle is really beautiful! And Gaston did so good! He is a gorgeous horse.

[@freespiritequestrian]

Thank you so much! ✨💖

[@cathyann1601]

I have always felt that a bitless bridle is the way to go, and I'm so glad to see someone using them.👍

[@deborahrich2666]

I love bitless. I went to a hunt and some of the young people had bitless bridals on their OTTB s.

[@freespiritequestrian]

That’s fantastic!

[@evieeqestrian]

I love Gaston in red he looks so cute

[@freespiritequestrian]

Thanks!

[@mandyb1320]

Koa your a beautiful boy, I love you too! Gaston your so gorgeous and gentle, when you canter you look like your floating through the air. The touch was so cute, he's truly amazing.

[@mamamiabenjamia]

this looks like so much fun! you clearly love what you do and it's great just to tag along.

[@freespiritequestrian]

It really is fun. Thank you 😊

[@elizabethsakurai3628]

I love that you tried Gaston without a bit. He's awesome! You have patience and the ability to work on his areas that need work! LOVE HIM IN RED!!

[@freespiritequestrian]

Yes! Thank you!

[@alissiagage1654]

I am so proud of my favorite boy

[@freespiritequestrian]

❤️❤️🐎🐎

[@Equestrianedits977]

Big fan need a horse asap

[@freespiritequestrian]

💖

[@muffassa6739]

Gaston loves you very much. He always tries to make you proud of him ❤

[@joannesmartens9442]

I think brideless is very nice and horsefriendly .🥰

[@freespiritequestrian]

It really is!

[@BrendaHaltom-cs6ck]

is such Aa big beautiful boy!❤️🐎

[@dressageponi]

I would love a video of your ground pole exercises! Gaston is such a good boy ❤

[@freespiritequestrian]

Will do!

[@BrendaHaltom-cs6ck]

Wow I love Gaston! He’s so gorgeous! I love his floail!❤️😀🐗

[@emilybailey4457]

Shae, that is a "friendly" comfy bridle! ❤ Gaston is gorgeous ❤

[@nikkirutland9814]

Gaston the great....what a lovely well schooled boy he is....he done good....🐎

[@freespiritequestrian]

I appreciate that, thanks!

[@ritaschultz6859]

I'm in horse bliss every time you post Your so talented

[@freespiritequestrian]

Thank you!!!

[@ginaheath8164]

Wow! What a beautiful mover he is, with your coaching/training of course. He did so well!

[@freespiritequestrian]

Thank you!!!

[@Martina_eq]

Amazing!

[@freespiritequestrian]

Thanks!

[@jenifereddings6190]

It's beautiful on him!!! Perfect color!❤

[@beckybakalyar4498]

He looks great in 🍒 red, definitely needs more red accents. ❤

[@francescafaull1253]

Sweet boy! He looks so willing and like he's trying for you.🥰

[@freespiritequestrian]

He’s a good one 💖

[@cynthiashields1982]

Love the bridle you designed! Gaston is great, and so are all of your ponies.

[@freespiritequestrian]

Thank you! 😊

[@daldog09]

Gaston is a lovely boy!

[@PattiNoe-qv5nv]

He's more than Gorgeous gorgeous...... Magnificently awesomely gorgeous❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@freespiritequestrian]

Thank you!

[@TrishCanyon8]

It's really fun going with you on your rides, and training. I can no longer ride so I'm enjoying through you. God bless you all.

[@freespiritequestrian]

Thanks so much ❤️

[@xdeliteace109]

OMG IM SUCH A BIG FAN by the way THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR resonding to me on a few vids ago

[@freespiritequestrian]

No problem!!

[@xdeliteace109]

​@@freespiritequestrian AHHHHHHHHH im so happy

[@wilmapascha2996]

He looks nice in that bridle.

[@que2h.690]

Great session! Terrific horse. Terrific horsemanship.

[@virtualselfie6899]

❣💯 Aww, the canter queen and big boy from Canada! Really love your emphasis on the brow band snap and head crown cushion. Gaston liked following your rein pulls left and right. He didn't snort, chortle or blow, so his lungs were really in sync with the exercise. Thanks, Shae, for the details on going bitless which I was interested in, in your last video. Most don't go bitless and I've never really understood why. To win competitions? Gaston's head is so handsome. If it is "big," then it fits his "drafty" body very well. Glad it's only 42 degrees there. Cali. got slammed with powerful 70 mph winds; you must be really glad you're not here. Keep on smiling for us. Your shows are uplifting!

[@virtualselfie6899]

Thumbs up to Shae❣💯! to The Best in the West, yes!

[@freespiritequestrian]

Thank you so much!

[@mechrissybradley9569]

I love all of your horse shae & your dog & pig ❤❤❤

[@ellenwheat3608]

I loved this session. I learned so much, as usual. Youre so cute with your animals. Very dear relationships.

[@freespiritequestrian]

I’m so glad!

[@georgiagonzales3769]

Awesome video. Thanks Shea 🤠 I admire you so much and how you are with your horses. Wish I lived a little closer. Yes I bet he would look beautiful in red ❤️

[@freespiritequestrian]

Thank you so much!

[@Groundedsquirrel]

I'm going to say one more thing in my sleep deprived state before I go ;) Hoping the extra comments help you somehow. It must be very rewarding and an interesting process to design the bridle with an individual or company. The snap off browband blew my mind a little. Ok goodnight! Hope you get tons of views and subs ;)

[@freespiritequestrian]

Yes it’s amazing!!!! It’s very time consuming and not easy but I am happy!

[@nicholemanning7165]

Red is definitely fabulous on Gaston! He’s so beautiful and bold color works for him. ❤

[@freespiritequestrian]

I think so too! ❤️

[@kalina663]

Gaston is Beautiful❗️Enjoyed this video👍

[@juliederry3719]

Oh Shae Gaston looks stunning in the red halter, and l love the ew bridle too, you’ve done an amazing job designing it, oh most definitely yes l would love to see him in more red, tfs x Julie 🇬🇧

[@freespiritequestrian]

Thank you so much!

[@diamondlambillotte9304]

Gaston looks so handsome in his red halter he needs a charm imagina terminix bridal when he moves its wings

[@freespiritequestrian]

Yesssss!

[@lesliebisset1318]

Your design seemed perfect for him good for you You have many talents

[@freespiritequestrian]

Thanks!!! You’re so kind.

[@Thatoneblonde78]

Love this ❤

[@freespiritequestrian]

❤️

[@marthafluharty]

Red yes! My favorite color. Looks beautiful on Gaston.

[@freespiritequestrian]

Mine too! ❤️

[@rachelmerz2122]

What a beautiful big ole boy!!! Loved this!

[@darlenestassen977]

Thanks for sharing this party🎉 so sweet❤

[@kristyfowler1974]

Shae it was wonderful watching Gaston doing his training he did a good job .... keep up the good work girl ..

[@freespiritequestrian]

Thank you!!!

[@kellywalsh6735]

Yes REDDDD!!!!

[@Carter_Cam.]

don't let him go!! :( i love him (by the way he looks relly good in red!) pls i love him!!! :( no! he is the best! :(

[@Alison-ow7cm]

Love the video Gaston looks great in is bitless bridle and he looks awesome in is red halter your doing a fantastic job with all your horses 😊😊

[@Happyhorses180]

At our barn, we rarely use bit bridles 😮

[@freespiritequestrian]

Nice 👍 🐴❤️

[@bonnieplattner3094]

That is so encouraging. Good for you.

[@junebyrne4491]

So awesome. I love watching.

[@freespiritequestrian]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@brendabirkenbach8533]

Yes RED!

[@freespiritequestrian]

I’m kind of obsessed 😍

[@justjanice8373]

Bitless 🐴 happier 🐎 👍

[@freespiritequestrian]

❤️🐎

[@loribroxson1134]

Yes for red!!! ❤️

[@freespiritequestrian]

Yay!

[@Grimes60]

Love that bridle😃

[@freespiritequestrian]

Thank you!

[@jess.06]

He suits that red head collar

[@sherylmarsh5533]

Such a lovely boy! Gaston had me smiling the entire video.. he looks so good going through the exercises… good job!❤

[@freespiritequestrian]

Yes! Thank you!

[@juliewaye7024]

Lovly work today I love the bit less bridle much kinder on the horse and his response to you is fab to watch. Good work out 🥰

[@freespiritequestrian]

Thanks so much! 😊

[@carriekruse9016]

love him

[@freespiritequestrian]

💖

[@izzytorres6176]

Yay he is so fun

[@freespiritequestrian]

❤️🐎

[@fleetskipper1810]

That is one classy bridle. Very good design and very nice materials. One question: does the jaw strap hold the bridle on better than a throatlatch does? It’s too bad that most competitions don’t allow riders to compete with bitless bridles.

[@freespiritequestrian]

It’s about the same. Yeah, I don’t get it honestly, but I don’t care to compete so oh well haha. I only take horses to shows to expose them to new environments or for my students to have that experience. Otherwise I could care less. However, endurance competitions are bitless! ❤️

[@LocalEquestrian1]

GASTON IS MY FAVORITE ❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@freespiritequestrian]

Awwww yay!

[@rottiegirl0077]

I like the way he moves.

[@freespiritequestrian]

Thanks!

[@HealingDisclosures22]

I love Gaston, love big breeds!! Bit less is beautiful 🤩 I said “ Oohh Shae is Way UP there on Gaston!! Lol much respect and 💕

[@freespiritequestrian]

Yes he seems so big since he’s thick hahaha!

[@bernadettepierce8020]

Gaston is wonderful horse to watch. He is very handsome. A good size for me 😮. Is he the one who is 30? Enjoyed this

[@freespiritequestrian]

No he’s 12

[@Lavender_Paws238]

he is so beautiful!

[@freespiritequestrian]

Thank you!

[@shirleyparent1873]

Enjoyed your video 💙✌️

[@freespiritequestrian]

Glad you enjoyed 🐴

[@Groundedsquirrel]

Lol'ed with you with that expression he greeted you with in contrast to Bagheera! Hysterical. Also his lips flapping as you slowed him from the trot to walk with his head down. Sometime the look in his eye is more intelligent seeming than I see coming, it's sort of breathtaking. Am I weird? Is the back of this saddle higher than usual? Or about the same as other dressage saddles? It looks comfortable, or at least supportive. How amazing how he mostly just figures out the bitless bridle right away. I wonder if he is conscious of there not being a bit in his mouth, thinking 'oh, good. Not that thing, I could get used to this!' I remember when I was first learning about switching leads, I was so confused.... took a while to get my then teenage head in the game. I'd never noticed which feet were moving where and when! The horse didn't know yet either so what a challenge and great learning experience. The excitement when we started figuring it out! ok one more question. I don't expect you to answer any of these and thank you for all the times you've responded to my comments, it's exciting and fun when I see a response from you! ! ! The question is - those little bars on each rein closest to the face - to keep them from twisting? OK I'll stop now. Not only your horses are a joy to watch but your riding too.

[@freespiritequestrian]

I know exactly what you’re talking about! Yes their expressions were different hahaha. Love them. Thank you for watching!

[@niwa1945]

Hey Shae, watching your channel became my life routine. Thank you for sending us such a positive equestrian heart. Gaston also is peaceful horse. Make me so comfy to watch. I have reminded what you been looking for any question from us. If you have a chance, would like to hear a your favorite book about horse(Riding instruction, Masterpiece of literature, Biography, and so on). Cheer!

[@Groundedsquirrel]

wow, I was thinking that exact same question last evening as I was putting books on my reading list and checking ebooks out of the library. Yes Shae would love to know any recommendations!

[@freespiritequestrian]

Thank you so very much! I really like Jec Ballou books, along with suffering in silence, and Think Like a Horse. ❤

[@maryward3060]

He is so beautiful

[@freespiritequestrian]

Thank you!

[@pamelaturner29]

You are an amazing horse owner. I love watching your video! The relationship you have developed with each one is beautiful! I do have a question for you. I don't know what you mean when you say Gaston is forward. I had a horse for a short time but never knew all that I see you doing. Sadly my horse died during Christmas when I was in 8th grade. I look for your videos every day even though I know you don't post every day but one can hope! 😁

[@Groundedsquirrel]

so very sorry about how you lost your horse. Must have been so hard. Hope you had special times together.

[@freespiritequestrian]

So sorry for your loss. Forward means a willingness to move forward without much aid from the rider, simple terms, fast. Lol 😆

[@BrendaHaltom-cs6ck]

Flowy

[@slaphappyKat]

When did you get the draft horse? He's gorgeous. He has a big everything! I wish you were closer.

[@freespiritequestrian]

About 3 years ago. ❤️

[@shortymcfox2251]

Looking good! Love the bitless design and such a handsome mister in red ❤ it’s nice you mentioned about keeping the correct leg position. So many people flop around and I remember my old instructor was brutal during lessons😬 I really like how well he responded with his new head gear and him backing up easily. The individual riding/training session videos you’re doing is so nice to watch. Get to really see the differences in them but also their gentle similarities. What size saddle pad are you looking for him?

[@freespiritequestrian]

Thank you! I still need to tweak the bridle and make some changes (this is my prototype) but I’m overall happy! My instructors were plain mean LOL. Gaston takes up a lot of my leg and pushes it out slightly, plus my butt was sliding under my jacket hahaha 🤣. Thank you for all of your kindness! You have done so much for us and I am completely grateful and thankful for you!

[@TutuEqBelts]

I recommend heading over to Sugarcreek auctions! That’s where I got my little gurly goose!!! I love your videos

[@freespiritequestrian]

Already been.

[@TutuEqBelts]

Omggggg no way I love it there it’s truly an amazing experience I do have a yt this is my alt but I’ll reply to this comment I made you an edit btw 😝

[@RidingForGoose]

Hello this is my channel ❤❤❤

[@freespiritequestrian]

@@TutuEqBelts how cool!!

[@TutuEqBelts]

Lol my goose girls likes to watch your videos with me 😁😁😁

[@lalagirl1971]

I love all your videos!! Could you please do a video on how to properly measure your horse for a saddle? Is there a certain website that you put your horses on that you will be selling? Thank you and I love all of your horses!!

[@freespiritequestrian]

I have a strong belief in working with a professional saddle fitter to fit and measure for a saddle, that’s why I haven’t put a video out because there are to mane variables and you can’t properly measure just by watching a video. It would be a disservice honestly. I don’t sell them on my website but I am going to add a page where people an inquire about purchasing one of my horses in the future once their ready.

[@catherinebrown7299]

Hiiiii, I am curious, who did you get to make Gaston's bridle for you? You two look beautiful and effortless together. Very smooth ride!!!

[@freespiritequestrian]

Thank you! It’s a manufacturing company, they only work with people wanting bulk orders, which will eventually be the case once I finish.

[@kajinsautumn9833]

@@freespiritequestrian I will definitely be looking to invest in one! I have a hard time finding a bitless sidepull for my 16'2 TWH gelding. I just use a rope halter now. I have a Justin Dunn but it just doesn't fit my boy right. He also has a big head! Not as large as a draft but more of a draft cross, long nose, wide forehead. Can't wait for your pole work videos! I love pole work!! It's the only way I found to break up my Walker's awful pace!

[@word20]

Have you seen Ken Mcnabb how to ride your horse? It is quite interesting how he rides his horse His youtube channnel is the same Ken mcnabb

[@hvnlymin]

When i will buy my own horses (when ill move out) I'm gonna ride bitless :D II think it would be really good for me and my horse, but it ofcourse depends on my horse too !!

[@freespiritequestrian]

Yes I agree! It’s so fun too.

[@marycastro4742]

I like it without the pit

[@freespiritequestrian]

❤️

[@kathrynsinclare8459]

The red halter is so good looking against his dark color, very striking! Lookin good you two. Why a jaw strap rather than a throat latch. The jaw strap looks restrictive to opening his mouth. What made this bridle an English bridle, it’s design? If so, what about the design made it English. Bit less bridles are new to me, who thought it ever possible? 🤔hmm… I’m thinking about it.

[@freespiritequestrian]

I love it!!!

[@Oliviathehorseyperson2688]

Omg that was so he is so good So are u still sad about Meeko I am still sad Love your vids

[@freespiritequestrian]

Of course!

[@Oliviathehorseyperson2688]

Haha I love Meeko

[@cw3365]

Shae, can't wait until you have a baby you will make a wonderful mother

[@freespiritequestrian]

Keep waiting because it’s not happening lol. I don’t want kids. 😂

[@Groundedsquirrel]

I gasped out loud because we can't have a Shaebaby taking us away from our beloved Shaehorses and Shaeshow! lol

[@freespiritequestrian]

@@Groundedsquirrel LOL 😂

[@kelsco4039]

Shae, great video with Gaston. I have some questions which I hope you'll answer: what is the purpose of a standing trot? What is the difference between a miniature pony and a miniature horse? How do you know when a horse enjoys a particular skill over another? Why are horses able to stay out in the elements more than say a dog or a cat? What is the average temperature of a horse? Thanks a lot I don't have the answer, obviously.

[@freespiritequestrian]

Hi, thanks! I’m not sure what standing trot is sorry. There isn’t a difference a miniature horse and pony is the same thing. You can just tell by their behavior and physical abilities. Research Wild horses ❤️

[@hannithurntwgypsyranch2146]

@@freespiritequestrian she may mean the 2 point.

[@freespiritequestrian]

@@hannithurntwgypsyranch2146 yes maybe. But it’s also performed at all gaits. I think she meant posting, now that I think about it :).

[@kelsco4039]

@@freespiritequestrian yes, thank you. I meant two point. Thanks

[@kelsco4039]

@@freespiritequestrian so Buzz is a pony?

[@ES-vv9bd]

He’s such a sweet horse! I have a training question if that’s ok, my gypsy cross is only 2 and I’m trying to train her with positive reinforcement and treats like you do. She is getting a little nippy and I’m not sure what to do. Any help would be most appreciated!

[@freespiritequestrian]

Yes positive reinforcement is great for all ages! I would recommend target training.

[@ES-vv9bd]

Ok, I’ll give it a try! Thanks! 😊

[@diamondlambillotte9304]

Just like you I believe every horse has a place if you don't find a new place

[@freespiritequestrian]

💖

[@humanity941]

hi from australia try a loose rein canter i loved the loose rein stretch

[@freespiritequestrian]

We do a loose rein canter too

[@Samandcolbyfanhere]

I’ve got a quick question! How do you tell the difference between Gaston and jafar? ( sorry I think I spelt his name wrong). I usually can’t remember who’s who with those two! But bright red is definitely his color! Another thing is how can they tell the difference between bitless and a bit?

[@freespiritequestrian]

They are built completely different. Besides them being black I don’t think they look similar. Lol. And what do you mean by how can they tell so I can answer right. :)

[@Samandcolbyfanhere]

@@freespiritequestriansorry that’s sound awful, but can they tell if it’s bit-less or not? That’s the same really sorry I don’t ride often because I can’t my parents won’t let me. But my question is can they feel the difference

[@freespiritequestrian]

@@Samandcolbyfanhere yes they can tell by feeling different pressure.

[@Samandcolbyfanhere]

@@freespiritequestrian ok thanks!

[@kayceepetersen4553]

What is a two point please?

[@renedouma2377]

I would love to own such an amzing horse an I would like to ask you , witch auction would you recomend for buying a project ponnie

[@freespiritequestrian]

It all depends on your location :)

[@BrendaHaltom-cs6ck]

Float tIl

[@kaelynnhuber7650]

Did you. Git a new hores or did you git him ba

[@jenifereddings6190]

How old is he? I forget what you had told us...

[@diamondlambillotte9304]

Can you show me how to make a holster as my horse wears her out like they're nothing keep on buying your altars and it's a pain

[@freespiritequestrian]

Sorry I don’t know what you’re asking.

[@freespiritequestrian]

@annpommer52 you said holster at first so I wasn’t sure. I don’t make halters.

[@xxstarsxx1548]

Wait so you plan on selling Prince Charming?

[@freespiritequestrian]

Yes I’ve said that all along. Please review my mission statement on my website. ❤️

[@trickedouttech321]

Why do so many ride so tight-reined, look at the reins there is no slack, she might not be pulling but there is tension. I feel so off if I try and ride like that. unless and asking for stomping my horse will have its head and reins will just be hanging. This is an honest question, I was not trained in riding my family had horses and I just grew up learning from the adults and then as an adult myself. but we never rode so tight in the reins she is not the only one. I see this with most YT riders. Would like to know why? My horse is so soft if I just give him his head.