Bridles

Bridles for your horse

All horses’ heads are unique, which sometimes makes choosing a new bridle very difficult. There are many models, sizes and types that all work differently. When does a bridle fit well and when not at all? Below is everything you need to know when buying a new bridle for your horse.

The function of a bridle

In the equestrian world, almost everyone rides with a bridle, but why really? A bridle has been around for many years but has also changed and improved many times over the years. A bridle is put on the horse as soon as the horse starts working. So this can be while riding, lunging or when they go in front of the carriage. For all these times of work, different bridles can be used in order to best move and walk the horse. The bridle has a number of points on the horse’s head where pressure comes. Choosing a bridle is then about making sure that the horse responds positively to this and therefore improves its performance. A bit can also be attached to the bridle and reins can in turn be attached to it. In every discipline within the equestrian world different bridles are used, all with a different function. This function also differs from horse to horse and thus must be experienced.

The difference between a bridle and a halter

The main difference between a bridle and a halter is the time of use. A bridle is used while working the horse and a halter during all other times of leading and securing. With the bridle, certain parts are also chosen to best suit the horse. For example, there are many different headpieces, nosebands and sizes of straps. This is because there is often more pressure on a bridle than on a halter. So it is important that the bridle fits properly. Many horse owners have one bridle and several halters for their horses. This is because a halter often breaks faster. Looking for a more durable halter option? Take a look at the UNIQ Halters.

Different types of bridles

By now there are hundreds of types of bridles but which one is the right one for you and your horse? When choosing a new bridle you can look at a number of things. What kind of bridle are you looking for? Are you looking for a snaffle bridle, a double bridle or a bridle for your small pony or even shetlander. Having this question ruled out, you can start looking at the models in your category. At UNIQ Bridles finding your category is very easy and you can immediately find an overview of the available models. If there is no standard model you want, there is always the option to Customize your bridle. At Customize your bridle you can choose all the loose parts to create your own bridle according to your horse’s taste and preferences. 

• The snaffle bridle: a snaffle bridle is the most common bridle in the equestrian world. Many riders as well as equestrian centers use this type of bridle. However, there are still many different choices within the snaffle bridle category. For example, you have high nosebands, low nosebands and combined nosebands. All of these also have different functions.
• The double bridle is a bridle that is often only used from the higher level. With this bridle, in addition to a bit, there is also a bar in the mouth that is attached with a chin chain. This bridle has a lever action that allows the aids given by the rider to be refined towards the horse. A double bridle always has a high noseband and no locking strap.

• The pony bridle is a bridle that is often forgotten. Often the models are much too big or too wide or are made for horses’ heads. At UNIQ Bridles, there is a whole collection just aimed at our little friends. So the headpieces are in the size what fits your pony and also the nosebands are smaller. At UNIQ Bridles, we believe that all ponies and horses deserve a nice bridle that fits.

The fit of a bridle

Each bridle fits a horse differently and has a different effect on each horse. To find out what size your horse needs, UNIQ Bridles has made a size chart. It tells you how you can measure your horse to find out the size. With a tape measure you can measure your horse’s measurements and see in the size chart which size will fit. Still not sure which size will fit? Take a look at the Find a fitter page and engage a certified bit and bridle fitter to help you.

The safety of a bridle

A bridle often offers a little more control over your horse than just a halter. This is because you have a bit in the horse’s mouth. This allows you to make more of a difference with less pressure. UNIQ Bridles bridles are made of soft Italian leather which makes them durable and reliable.

Things that come with a bridle

When buying a new bridle, you are not done with a bridle alone. For example, a bridle also comes with reins and a bit. There are many different types of reins and this is one of the few things that the rider gets to choose according to taste. A bit, on the other hand, is horse specific. So it is important that you choose a good bit that actually suits your horse. 

Need advice?

Still not quite sure about the size or color of the bridle? At UNIQ Bridles we offer the service of advice. Via contact it is possible to send an email with a specific question. This question will be answered as soon as possible. Do you prefer help with your horse? At UNIQ Bridles we have a number of certified bit and bridle fitters who can help you with your choice! Find these bit and bridle fitters under Find your Fitter.