Bits N’ Such Equestrian

One of the biggest misconceptions about biting is that there are a selection of magic or best bits that will work well for every horse at a certain level or doing a particular job.
There isn't.

A bit is not simply a piece of equipment to choose from a catalog. It is a tool that interacts with a horse’s unique anatomy, way of going, training, and individual sensitivities.

A proper bit evaluation considers questions like:
• What is the anatomy of my horse's mouth and how does that impact which bit he/she should go in?
• How much space does the horse have between the tongue and palate?
• What type of contact does the rider naturally create?
• How does the horse respond to different types of pressure and release?
• Is the current bit helping communication or is it creating resistance?

Two horses can wear the exact same bit and have completely different experiences. One may become softer and more confident, while another may become tense or defensive.

The goal of bit fitting is not to find the “strongest” bit or the most popular bit. The goal is to find the most appropriate tool for that individual horse and rider combination and not selecting the best product on the market.

Great biting is not about selling a product. It’s about evaluating and understanding anatomy, pressure, and communication. It requires the experience to evaluate horses and riders as an experienced trainer and use that knowledge to help horses perform comfortably and confidently, while also identifying the difference between what's a bitting issue and what's a training issue.

Because the best bit is not the one everyone is using.
It’s the one that works for your horse.

It is a common belief in bitting is that a thicker mouthpiece is always softer.

Technically, a larger diameter mouthpiece distributes pressure over a greater surface area, which can make the pressure feel less concentrated. However, that is only part of the equation. You also must assess whether the horse has enough room in their mouth to comfortably carry that mouthpiece.

A thicker bit may seem like the kinder choice, but if a horse has a large tongue, a low palate, or limited space in their mouth, that extra material can create constant pressure. Instead of feeling a clear signal and then a release, the horse may feel like they are always carrying pressure.

For many horses, a 14mm mouthpiece provides enough width to distribute pressure while also not being too thick for their mouths.

However, this largely depends on the horse's anatomy. For example a horse with a thicker tongue or a flatter palate may need a thinner bit, say 12mm to create more comfort. Yes, a thinner mouthpiece technically creates a more concentrated pressure point. But if it allows the horse to comfortably carry the bit, relax, and accept the contact, it can be the better choice for that individual horse.

And of course, there are some bits on the market that have cleverly incorporated both the concept of a thicker bit allowing pressure to be spread over a larger area and a thinner design to take up less space in the mouth.

The goal is not to choose the thickest or thinnest mouthpiece. The goal is to choose the bit that fits the horse’s anatomy.

When selecting a bit with a port, the goal is not simply to choose the “biggest” port possible. The goal is to create appropriate tongue relief while still ensuring the bit sits comfortably and correctly on the horse’s bars while also not putting unwanted pressure against the horse's palate.

The shape of the port (and the overall curvature of the mouthpiece) plays a major role in how pressure is distributed.

For example, a straighter mouthpiece concentrates pressure over the tongue and relieve pressure over the bars and the sensitive edges of the tongue. On the other hand a more curved mouthpiece follows the natural shape of the horse’s mouth and distributes pressure over a larger surface area, allowing the contact to be softer and more evenly spread.

Every horse is different, which is why working with a professional is incredibly valuable. The right bit considers the horse’s anatomy, tongue shape, jaw space, and the way that individual horse responds to pressure. So while we would like as wide a port as possible, it must also fit comfortably on your horse's bars and not engage their palate, all of this is unique to each horse.

Good bitting is about finding the most appropriate tool for clear communication and comfort for your specific horse's anatomy.

Interior pressures come from the mouthpiece and include bar, tongue, and squeeze forces.

Bar pressure is present in all bits to some degree, though the intensity varies. It is often well tolerated compared to tongue pressure unless there is existing sensitivity or trauma in the bars. When an appropriate bit is used for an individual horse, it can support poll flexion and encourage release in the jaw.

Tongue pressure is present in most designs but has become increasingly associated with resistance. When tongue pressure is accepted by a horse, it can support correct flexion and connection; when rejected, it often presents as tension, evasions, or instability in the contact.

Squeeze occurs primarily in jointed designs and varies based on construction. In appropriate amounts and with a correctly fitting mouthpiece, it may be well tolerated. When excessive or if a horse does not tolerate it well, it commonly produces avoidance behaviors such as elevation or loss of connection.

Exterior pressures are created through the cheek pieces and bridle mechanics.
- Poll pressure results from leverage systems where rein pressure is transferred through the shank or purchase of the bit, creating force behind the ears.
- Cheek pressure supports lateral influence and stability. It is most present in fixed cheek designs and can assist in clarity of directional aids, particularly in training.
- Curb pressure is created through engagement of the curb chain or strap in the chin groove. If too tight, pressure becomes constant, and leverage is reduced. If too loose, leverage increases without adequate control.

The correct selection of each of these for every individual horse requires experience, observation, and an understanding of how these pressures interact.
Working with an experienced fitter is what allows these variables to be evaluated accurately and translated into effective choices for the individual horse.

Looking to find the right bit for your horse? Host or participate in a bit fitting clinic!