My favorite bit for gaited horses!

I am always getting asked questions about bits. What do I like? What do I recommend? And all of that kind of stuff. In this video, I just want to talk about snaffles briefly, and which one I like best.
This is the Rockin' S Raised snaffle developed by Mark Sulan at Rockin S Quarter Horses.
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[@johnfreeman4143]

After watching Ivy talk about this bit I bought one. Both my MFT horses love it. Thanks Ivy

[@briannasainz7161]

Absolutely love this bit! I had tried a few different ones on my TWH. He always gaped at the slightest bit of pressure, and then he would shoot his nose into the air. Keep in mind, I have light hands and never used harsh bits (twisted wire, single jointed, gags etc) on him. I had tried myler comfort bits, imus comfort bit, double jointed bits with a roller... So many different bits. I love your videos, and after struggling with him for so long... I finally took the dive and got the Rockin S. And what a difference. After our first ride with it, he was softer and more accepting of it. After riding in it for a few months now, I can say the difference in him has been mind blowing! Thank you Ivy!

[@debhallett8314]

Just got mine. Can’t wait to use it!

[@dkeith45]

The bit you show OP is very similar to the bit I used before going to a Bosal. It was a 'Full cheek French link snaffle bit'. The main reason I went to the bosal is because I like to stop and take breaks from time to time while on a ride, and let my mount graze. With the bit it would often get clogged with a lot of grass and was a pain to dislodge it all. I now use a 'cross pull bosal' on all the easy gaited horses I ride. No more clogged bits, control is the same, and I think horses like it better.

[@WaysideArtist]

Thank you so much for telling us about your favorite bit. Absolutely adore the cinematic ending...all your beautiful horses being horses. Great music!

[@DarleneDeMayo]

Have you ever ridden bitless? Is this a good bit to switch to to get out of using a shanked bit?

[@judithbliss7567]

great informative video and love the footage at the end!

[@ddawson1991]

Recently purchased for my young horse, he LOVES this bit much more relaxed! Thank you for sharing this information.

[@SLOROB55]

I generally ride in an egg butt French link. I’ll certainly try this one. You talk about being safe riding on the trail. YES! That resonates. My mare will do what ever I ask in the arena, indoors or out. I’m 65. I’ve been riding for about four years. My seat is constantly improving. How do I know when we are ready to go out alone.

[@Marcy6722]

So glad to know what bit you use. Thanks for info.

[@RLB-wb4ms]

I absolutely love your cinematography. It's beautiful!

[@IvyS]

Thank you so much!

[@michenyland6583]

Hello, Ivy. I am an avid Mark Rashid fan, and becoming an avid fan of yours. I believe someone other than Mark Rashid designed the Rockin S Snaffle, but Mark R., like you, started using, liking it, and promoting it. But It appears he was very involved in the design of the raised port model. More info is on the Mark Rashid website. Thank you for your short and informational training videos, your enthusiasm at showing the beauty of horses and the world around us, and the excellent videography in all that you do.

[@IvyS]

Miche, thanks for that info!!!! From talking with Mark, I was just under the impression that he had developed the bit, but I will correct my thinking!!! So glad you enjoy the artistic part of the videos. That is the fun part for me, of course!

[@markrashid741]

Mark Sullen designed the original Rocking S Snaffle bit. It was originally a plain two piece mouthpiece with the new cheek pieces. He had sent the bit to me to try out and I found it to be very helpful for a lot of horses. The horses it didn't help were ones with a thick tongue or low palette. Wanting to have a bit that would help these kind of horses as well, I designed what would eventually be the Rocking S Raised Snaffle mouthpiece. The idea behind the Raised Snaffle is that the mouthpiece lays back in the mouth where there is more room, rather than forward in the mouth as most regular snaffles do. It was also designed with plenty of tongue relief as well as limited upward movement so as not make contact with the roof of the mouth during use. The original Raised design had a solid barrel, or roller, where the center hinged piece is now. My thought was to use the barrel to limit possible collapsing movement of the bit in the horses mouth. However, when the prototype came out, the manufacturer had put the hinged piece in place of the roller. During R&D, we found that horses seemed to like the bit as is, and so we went forward with it. We had actually talked about doing a second Raised Snaffle with the roller, but never did. I'm happy you are having so much luck with it!

[@KKIcons]

@@markrashid741 I really want one with a cricket.

[@barbedstar6480]

Aside note...My T.W. mare is a mane tangler....dread locks galore. I buy WD40, take a handful and massage it into the knots thoroughly. The next day, start on the knots by hand un-twirling some of the easier loop-ti-loops. Starting with a good heavy comb, go after the ends and puzzle them out. Often there are a few broken strands that start the knots. WD40 won't hurt you or your horse and it slicks the hair so the knots slip apart. Instead of cutting out big chunks of mane, this leaves the mane intact. A lifetime of Arabians taught me the value of simple WD40. Ivy, thank you for your videos. This same mare (new to me) is very pacey and up-tight from previous owner abuse. Your videos have given me some insights on how to help her into a good gait. Am working on getting her to relax and trust in general, on the ground and in the saddle. She is fear flighty and never learned to gait. 'Cowboyed' most her life. Not a mean bone, just scared tense. Am gaining 'trust' ground...but as she is my first gaited horse, was unsure how to help her learn to gait. Thanks for your help.

[@jeanettewaverly2590]

Good tip, BarbedStar. Thanks! Sometimes I get fed up and just roach her, lol. Being a TWH, it all grows back fast.

[@KKIcons]

BarbedStar We are about to get a mare just like that. Thankfully she has had a foaling break with a sensible owner, and we have had a chance several times to work with her. Hope you will update here later how it is going with yours.

[@charityford6941]

Can you neck reign with the Rockin S raised snaffle? I just bought a Missouri Fox Trotter at an auction and I don’t know what kind of bit they used on her. I do know she neck reigns and I was reading that this is a Stage A bit for two handed reining. Also thinking about trying a hackamore. Any hackamore better than another for gaited horses? Do gaited horses normally gait ok in a hackamore?

[@margaretloy2314]

Hi Ivy, great video about the bit. I'm looking forward to learning about which saddles you think are best for gaited horses.

[@olive9262]

Margaret Loy no use bits

[@TheKathywaits]

beautiful video...

[@tinaanderson5869]

Thanks! Ivy, how does this compare to the IMUS 4-Beat Training Bit (not the comfort bit) in your experience?

[@IvyS]

Tina, great question, I have used the IMUS training bit, but I never like it. The horses I used it on didn't seem to like it and seemed to love the Rockin S Raised snaffle much more.

[@jeanettewaverly2590]

I saw an Imus bit a couple of years ago -- waaay too heavy for my sensitive little gal!

[@deborahrowland3779]

Tina Anderson .

[@anglane7466]

Ivy. Just wondering if you have seen or worked with these titanium bits made by Lorenzini. In the description it talks about how light they are, increases salivation, etc.

[@IvyS]

I haven't worked with them. I just took a look and the 3 piece snaffle looks okay, but I think I would still like the unique design of this bit better. :)

[@anglane7466]

thank you

[@omegaryanscott]

Hey Ivey, I just bought a RMH and it is on the wonder bit! My goal is to go bites eventually! My question is have you ever used the IMUS bit a curb but made to be gentle and comfortable for the horse? My horse is young but I think ready to try a transition what is the best way to introduce a new bit?

[@IvyS]

Just so you know, I hate the wonder bit. It is a gag bit, which is not gentle. I see most horses in a wonder bit with their heads up. The imus bit is better, but still has a long shank. That is why I recommend the Rockin' S Raised snaffle and the MacGregor releasing bit with short shanks. Transition would be in a small area, not a trail ride. Pretend like he is a green horse and teach him to turn and stop and back up. Get him nice and soft. :)

[@timlawhern4988]

Hi Ivy, I just watched this video but have seen others by you on KZbin. My question is it seems counter intuitive to use something in a horses mouth vs just a rope halter. Could you please explain the logic of going from training (and riding) with a rope halter to using bits be they a snaffle, curb or whatever. ??

[@IvyS]

I personally use bitless on most of my horses, but many of my clients use bits. I try to help them train their horses and use the gentlest possible. And if someone wants to use just a halter, I encourage that, but safety is first and I don't want my clients getting hurt. I wish everyone could ride safely and kindly without bits, but that isn't possible yet.

[@WaysideArtist]

Hi, Ivy. I bought the bit and wanted to try it tonight, but was confused. I'm curious if there is a front to back orientation? Or doesn't it matter which way I buckle it to the bridle. Also, does it require a curb strap or chain? Thanks!

[@IvyS]

There is a correct front and back way to put the bit. I do talk about it in the video. Basically, if you put it on the bridle and hold it up, the mouthpiece should be leaning back slightly.

[@WaysideArtist]

Ivy Schexnayder Thank you so much! That's how I oriented it, but I will rewatch the video anyway. Naturally I missed that detail. 😜

[@WaysideArtist]

Ivy Schexnayder I apologise. You answered all my questions. I should've researched before asking. You are so patient. Thx!

[@lindacleaveland2560]

Would you please show how to put the circle S bit in. I couldn't see the postion of the bit when putting it in, from your video.

[@anglane7466]

Howdy I was wondering if there is a girth you recommend. when the saddle is on and my horse turns seems the back of the saddle is up. Do I need a crupper? I have seen a double girth would that be better?

[@IvyS]

Do you have a photo? You can email me at [e-mail]

[@Bootbitch]

Ang Lane i personally don’t recommend using a rear girth or crupper to get the back of your saddle to lay down. It sounds like it may be your saddle doesn’t properly fit your horse. But without seeing it, it’s hard to say. JMO and best of luck to you and happy riding 😀

[@dianajaeger7926]

I like this bit. It is working very well for me. thanks.

[@catherinefoster6082]

Thank you, Ivy. I love getting your videos! I ride in a Myler full cheek comfort snaffle. I'm open to trying another bit but I'm wondering what differences you think I might find in your favorite bit. There are times when I am trail riding in a group or doing a hunter pace when I would like a little more whoa but I don't want to go to a more severe bit.

[@gerrycoleman7290]

Are you serious?..................'full cheek comfort snaffle'.................'comfort'.............a term the company uses to sell to the ignorant. Bits are pain compliance devices.

[@lindmarkerries6995]

How do I know what size Rocking S bit to buy? Hope you are still continuing to do videos. Just found these new ones today.

[@IvyS]

There are almost 100 videos on this channel. There are more on Facebook. There is mostly just the one size bit. The five inch.

[@sharongray9080]

What is the name of the song you played at the end of your video?

[@nicolecampiglio6119]

I would like to try that bit

[@littlemissdawnann]

Thanks for all the videos! I look forward to each one :) My fox trotter goes bitless, but I ordered one for a recently acquired quarter horse who tosses her head. Hoping it might make her more comfortable!

[@tinacampbell8867]

I currently have my 4 year old in a bit similar to the Myler level 2 comfort bit with a low port. He doesn't reject much i ask of him... he responds well enough but I can tell with the bit being dry when I take it out of his mouth he isn't working well on it. He is a good boy and generally listens well but I fear I won't have the breaks needed if on a trail or something happens. Would I be better off finding another shanked bit so I can have a curb chain?

[@IvyS]

If his mouth is dry, you might want to switch to sweet iron or copper. :)

[@IvyS]

And if you are worried about brakes, then make sure to practice the stop at all speeds and excitement levels. Do the stop training I teach, especially at the canter and fast canter.

[@tinacampbell8867]

@@IvyS thanks so much!

[@IvyS]

@@tinacampbell8867 You are very welcome.

[@joeflorence938]

What is the difference between this bit and the Myler o4 with hooks? Thanks

[@jeanettewaverly2590]

I use a Myler 04 D-ring snaffle on my TWH mare. It looks very similar to this one -- lots of tongue room. It's the only bit I've tried that she'll tolerate.

[@kkrowe1545]

I ride my Tennessee Walker with a hackamore and with just a neck rope. Honestly I don’t near a bit to control and horse there are so many different options than just a bit.🙂

[@dariaharruff7025]

hi ivy I'm take riding lessons and i ride a horse in a bit so if were to have a horse someday do need to use a bit or a rope halter in order to ride a horse any ideas

[@IvyS]

You can ride a horse in anything you train them.

[@dariaharruff7025]

@@IvyS thank you so much

[@sinecureinstruments3099]

for dressage horse wihich bits is best ?

[@maryhorbianski7248]

So how do I get one of these

[@mohamedghandar2876]

Hi lvy, do you think it fits Arabian Horses?

[@IvyS]

It should fit them with no issues!

[@horsenamedcalypso7781]

I would really like to try this bit on my baited TWH but its so expensive.

[@dkeith45]

@Horse named Calypso Here's a similar bit. It's the one I used before going to the bosal with my gaited horses. They're around $30 or so usually. French link full cheek snaffle. www.equestrianhouse.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/full-cheek-french.jpg

[@tube01jj]

Hi how do I get one ? Please advise. Thanks

[@IvyS]

mcdiamond.com/bits/reinsman/bmbits/dm.htm

[@maxiwohler9362]

I pls want to buy the same bit i am in Namibia

[@clopiccola6866]

Is this bit legal for Western Dressage?

[@gerrycoleman7290]

Bits should not be used for any purpose.................except, perhaps, for a toilet paper holder.

[@crickethanback8338]

I rode with no bit why if a horse is trained correctly do you need them? Serious question.

[@IvyS]

You do not need a bit! Great question! I ride all my horses without a bit!

[@dianalips8478]

why do u have to use a bit?

[@KKIcons]

Diana Lips I would like to hear Ivy's answer as well, but I think some horses take advantage and pull through a halter a little more. Buck Brannaman mentioned this in his 7 clinics video. Mine is probably pulling down with about 40 lbs to dive for snacks, and that's hard on my old shoulders. I am solving this in her rope halter using better timing, and redirecting though. When she is good, gaits well, and asks nicely, she can have a snack. A bit can help them get a little more fine-tuned in their lateral work as they get farther along in training. I have heard you can develop them pretty far with a bosal though.

[@gerrycoleman7290]

KK-------The horses you refer to are not pulling the halter, they are pulling through the rider. Not the horse's fault. 'I have heard you can develop them pretty far with a bosal though.'...................very far with a rope halter.

[@shelleyzoe8254]

do you still like this bit?

[@IvyS]

I do! If you need help finding a used one, let me know.

[@shelleyzoe8254]

@@IvyS ty!

[@donil5445]

@@IvySI would love help in finding a used one. Do the rings that you attach to the bridle press into the face? My horse has tmj issues.

[@ginavetro1876]

How much are these bits through you

[@IvyS]

I don't sell these bits unless I'm posting a used one for a client

[@IvyS]

facebook.com/share/p/jAXugjnfGfssujWK/?mibextid=xfxF2i

[@josephwoyczik4828]

Do they come apple flavored?

[@josephwoyczik4828]

🥕 flavored, me 🏇 loves carrots, prototype a chewy thingy for me 🏇

[@leah_9806]

😭

[@Orpheelover]

Best relieve is to use no bit. Ever. Train your horse and yourself to ride without.

[@IvyS]

I agree! Bitless is so amazing! The thing is I am working with people who are primarily trail riders and above all, I don't want them to get hurt. :D Training is the answer, but just getting hurt for no reason is not good.

[@Orpheelover]

Ivy Schexnayder glad to hear you do ride bitless. But aren't the people you work with in an equally amount of danger with the bit then? Or even more because if they just pull on the bit and the horse wants to get relieve from the bit it might rear up. (I don't know what level horse riding they are but if they are really beginner level then they might pull. Though I get that without a bridle you need to learn more to use your sit to help stop the horse and that isn't something you learn right of the bat)

[@gerrycoleman7290]

The best bit is no bit.

[@olive9262]

Public comment announcement Bits are disgusting

[@freddyaltina2737]

🙄

[@justhorses5387]

How about we Doon use bits yea!!!!!!!

[@IvyS]

I am a big advocate of bitless bridles! I think are wonderful and I use them in my riding, but I know that many people would get hurt with a bitless bridle as they wouldn't put in the time it takes to make a horse safe to ride bitless. :)

[@justhorses5387]

That's what I love to hear!! Thanks xx

[@katr8756]

Way to expensive!!!

[@spookynight135]

kat r poor kid

[@gracynhazelwood2037]

Gross I hate bits

[@gerrycoleman7290]

A horse can be ridden more effectively without a bit.

[@kalliesmith596]

Sadly They are so expensive!😭

[@ravenXruby]

How about ...not using a bit?