Bridle, noseband and snaffle: construction, types and differences

What is a bridle?

The bridle refers to all the equipment on a horse's head. It consists of several parts, including the headpiece with cheekpieces, throat strap and browband, the noseband, the bit and the reins. The bridle is the general term for the entire head equipment. The term snaffle is also used colloquially. However, the bridle actually only describes the bit with the reins. This part is omitted with bitless bridles.

Bridle types and differences

There are many different types of bridles. Between bitless bridles to bridles with a bit is a great variety of different bridles. Here, we will explain you the most common bridles and their differences.

The snaffle bridle

The snaffle bridle is probably the most common type of bridle for horses. At competitions, during training at home or on a leisurely ride through the forest, you will see horses with bridles. As the name suggests, the snaffle bridle consists of a snaffle, i.e. the bit with reins, a noseband and the headpiece. The type of snaffle bridle is usually named after the noseband. For example, there is the Swedish bridle, the Hanoverian bridle, the English bridle or the English combined bridle. We explain more about the differences between the nosebands under Caveson. 

The Micklem

The Micklem Bridle, although not a traditional bridle, is becoming more and more popular and has made a name for itself. The Original Rambo Micklem Bridle, manufactured by Horseware, offers various advantages:

1. Upper closing strap: The upper closing strap does not rest on the horse's molars. This prevents the strap from exerting uncomfortable pressure on the teeth, which could potentially disturb the horse.
2. Headpiece: The headpiece reduces pressure on the horse's neck and ears. The anatomical shape distributes the pressure evenly and prevents unpleasant pressure points. This contributes to an overall more comfortable fit for the horse.
3. Side noseband: The side noseband avoids pressure on the sensitive nerves in the nostril area. This is particularly important as this area is very sensitive and hypersensitive horses could be disturbed if pressure is exerted there.
4. Curved cheek pieces: The curved cheek pieces adapt to the horse's cheekbone for a better fit and comfort. This distributes the pressure more evenly and prevents unpleasant pressure points.
5. Front noseband: The front noseband sits high and is therefore gentle on the sensitive bridge of the horse's nose. This prevents the noseband from pressing uncomfortably on the sensitive skin of the bridge of the nose.

Overall, thanks to its anatomical cut and special features, the Micklem Bridle offers a particularly good fit and comfort for the horse without exerting pressure on sensitive areas. Thanks to the clips, the Micklem can be used with or without a bit for riding.

The curb

A double bridle is a special type of bridle that consists of an English or Swedish noseband and is extended by two cheek pieces. Two bits are attached to these cheekpieces: the snaffle bit and the curb bit, a bar bit that is fitted with a chin chain.

The curb bit is generally used in dressage from elementary class upwards. It has a strong leverage effect and therefore requires experienced handling by advanced riders. The use of four pairs of reins and two bits requires precise coordination and dexterity in order to give the horse clear and precise signals.

Overall, the curb bit is an advanced bridle that enables fine communication between rider and horse, but should only be used by experienced riders due to its leverage and complexity.

Bitless bridle

When we talk about bitless snaffles, we mean a riding accessory that is used to influence a horse without having a bit in the horse's mouth. Normally, a bit is used to give the rider the opportunity to influence the horse through the reins. With bitless bridles, communication between rider and horse is mainly via the bridge of the nose and the horse's head, rather than direct pressure in the mouth.

There are several reasons why riders opt for bitless snaffles. For example, they can be suitable for young horses or those with dental problems as they don't need to have a bit in their mouth. Some riders also find that bitless snaffles allow for a gentler way of riding and can encourage a closer connection between rider and horse. Furthermore, several riders advocate that the horse must first respond to the subtle aids provided by a bitless bridle before a snaffle can be used.

Bitless snaffles transmit the rider's signals mainly via pressure points on the bridge of the horse's nose and head. These pressure points can vary depending on the type of bitless bridle. For example, the cavesson lies close to the bridge of the nose, while the sidepull sits like a halter but has additional pressure points for the rein action. Bitless bridles require very good balance, clear communication and fine assistance from the rider.

There are different types of bitless bridles, including the cavesson, sidepull, bitless bridle, hackamore, bosal and wheel of fortune. Each type has its own unique characteristics and may be better suited to certain horses or riding styles. It's important to understand the different options and make the right choice for you and your horse.

How is a bridle constructed?

The headpiece

The poll sits behind the horse's ears and is an important part of the bridle. Because this area is so sensitive and bears the weight of the bridle, care must be taken when selecting the headpiece. Important nerves run through here and there are two bursae that can become inflamed if they become irritated.

A relaxed poll is extremely important for the horse to be loose and flexible. This is because a ligament runs through the neck that influences the movements of the whole horse. A relaxed neck therefore means that the horse can move more easily!

There are many special headpieces available today that are designed to distribute the pressure evenly and not disturb the horse's neck. Some are even anatomically cut so that the pressure point is further back.

The browband

Whether with glittering stones, braided from leather, with a name or made from twisted rope, the browband is often a real eye-catcher. But what function does the browband have on a bridle? The browband ensures that the headpiece sits in the right place and stays there. If the browband is too short, the headpiece is pulled forward. As a result, the headpiece presses on the horse's sensitive ears and the horse starts to shake. The bridle can then quickly slip off the horse's head because the strap is too short. The opposite is true if the browband is too long. Even then, the headpiece does not sit correctly and the pressure cannot be optimally distributed because the noseband is then no longer in place. Browbands are much more than just a fashion accessory, they are an important part of the bridle.

The cheek pieces

The cheek pieces are the parts of the bridle that connect the bit and the headpiece. They have stainless steel or brass buckles that can be used to adjust the bridle so that it fits the horse perfectly.

The cheekpieces run on both sides of the horse's head below the cheekbone. Adjusting them also influences how the bit lies in the horse's mouth. This is important so that you can influence the horse via the rein aids.

Some cheekpieces have snap hooks. These make it super easy to clip the bit on and off. This is practical if the horse is to graze without a bit, if you want to clean the bit quickly after riding or if you use the bridle for several horses but use a different bit. You can simply take it off and replace the bit

The throat strap

The throat lash is part of the bridle's headpiece and runs across the horse's throat. Its purpose is to ensure that the bridle does not get lost if the horse gets caught somewhere and to prevent the entire bridle from being pulled over the horse's head, for example in the event of a fall. If the throat lash is adjusted too tightly, it can impair the horse's breathing or press on the sensitive parotid glands.

It is therefore important to adjust the throat lash correctly. A rule of thumb states that there should be space between the throat lash and the horse's cheeks for a raised fist. This ensures that the throat lash is not too tight and gives the horse enough freedom of movement.

The noseband

The noseband is an important part of the bridle that runs over the bridge of the horse's nose. This region is particularly sensitive, which is why it is important to pay particular attention to the noseband when buying a snaffle.

The functions of the noseband can be explained in more detail:

1. position of the bit: The noseband helps to keep the bit straight and in place. This is important so that the bit sits correctly in the horse's mouth and the rider's signals are transmitted correctly.

2. limiting the mouth opening: Sometimes it is necessary to limit the opening of the horse's mouth to ensure effective control. The noseband can help to ensure that the horse does not open its mouth too wide. However, it should not be buckled too tightly.

3. absorption of rein forces: When the rider pulls on the reins, pressure is exerted on the bit, which is transferred to the bridge of the horse's nose via the noseband. The noseband serves to absorb these forces and distribute them evenly so as not to put too much strain on the horse and to offer it more comfort.

The ratchet strap

The locking strap is a controversial part of an English noseband that makes it a combined noseband. It is probably the most debated part of the bridle. Some people argue that it allows better control over the horse or prevents the horse from putting its tongue over the bit. Others, however, claim that the flash strap impairs the horse's breathing and severely restricts its chewing movements.

It is important to emphasize that the correct buckling of the barrier strap is crucial in order not to interfere with the horse's breathing, especially if you decide to use a barrier strap. There are different opinions on this subject, so it is important to consider the needs of the individual horse and consult with a professional if necessary to make the best decision.

The original development of the locking strap actually comes from military contexts, particularly from the cavalry. The locking strap was used to prevent the rider from holding the reins in the event of a fall or sudden descent and thereby breaking the horse's jaw. By limiting the opening of the horse's mouth, the locking strap was able to prevent such injuries and improve the safety of both rider and horse.

Which noseband is available?

English noseband

The English noseband sits 2 fingers below the cheekbone, on the bridge of the horse's nose. A typical feature of this noseband is that it only has a noseband and no locking strap. This noseband is one of the most commonly used nosebands in the world. When you ride with an English noseband and tighten the reins, the following happens: The parts that hold the noseband open a little. This transfers the pressure that is normally on the horse's mouth to the bridge of his nose and lower jaw.

This is important for one reason: some horses don't like it when there is too much pressure directly on their mouth. If you use a narrow noseband, the horse feels the pressure directly, which is okay for some. But with a wide noseband, the pressure is better distributed, which is more comfortable for other horses. It all depends on what works best for the horse in question!

English combined noseband

In addition to the noseband and throat strap, an English combined noseband also has a locking strap. The English combined noseband has something extra: a locking strap. This is there to keep the bit quieter in the horse's mouth. This strap can be particularly helpful for horses that like to open their mouths and therefore hold the bit crookedly, and the combination also ensures that the pressure is not only on the bridge of the nose and the lower jaw, but also on the chin pit. The flash strap on the English combined noseband helps to distribute the pressure better and offers the horse more comfort. Here too, there should be 2 fingers between the cheekbone and the noseband.

The Hanoverian noseband

The Hanoverian bridle is somewhat more specialized. It transfers the pressure from the horse's mouth to the nasal bone and the chin pit. The chin strap, which is located on the noseband, ensures that the bit lies more quietly in the horse's mouth. Because the noseband is narrower and sits lower than the English noseband, it is sharper. This means that the pressure is mainly on the lower bridge of the nose.

The Hanoverian noseband is particularly suitable for horses that are normally ridden with a conventional bit but can occasionally be a little more energetic. Thanks to the pressure on the lower bridge of the nose, these horses can be better controlled and made more maneuverable, making them easier to lead.

But be careful: Horses with a shorter nasal fissure run the risk of pressure being exerted on the soft part of the nasal bone. The nasal bone is very sensitive there and can break if too much pressure is exerted on it.

In addition, the Hanoverian noseband can restrict breathing more than the English or combined noseband. Due to the angle between the noseband and chin strap, the noseband can also act slightly on the poll when the reins are pulled.

As a rule of thumb, the noseband should be about 4 finger widths above the nostrils. And of course the noseband should not be too long to avoid problems with the bit.

Mexican noseband

The Mexican noseband is very popular in show jumping and eventing because it allows the horse to breathe. Similar to a combined noseband, the pressure is transferred from the straps to the chin, lower jaw and bridge of the nose. The pressure is felt directly where the straps meet and press on the bridge of the nose. If you then pull on the reins, the horse will also feel pressure in its neck.

But be careful: If the straps sit over the cheekbone, this can cause too much strain if there is a lot of pressure because there is not much skin there. This could hurt the horse. Particularly sensitive horses could get skin irritation or even chafing from normal chewing. It is therefore important that the noseband is adjusted correctly, especially below the cheekbone.

The Mexican noseband offers plenty of room to breathe and presses in just the right places without being sharp. It distributes the pressure over the bridge of the nose, lower jaw, chin pit and neck. Thanks to its special shape, various bits can be used without them getting caught, such as the shank snaffle.

Care and cleaning of bridles

Depending on what material the bridle is made of, the care does not differ greatly from the saddle. 

Cleaning leather bridles requires a little care to ensure that the leather remains clean and its durability is not compromised. Here are some steps you can follow:

1. remove coarse dirt: Before you start with the actual cleaning, remove coarse dirt and dust from the bridle. Use a soft brush or cloth to brush off dirt particles and loose dirt.

2. use a mild detergent: mix warm water with a small amount of mild leather cleaner or moisten a sponge with water and lather up the leather soap a little. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the cleaning solution and wring it out well to make sure it is not too wet.

3. clean the bridle: Wipe the entire bridle thoroughly with a damp cloth or sponge. Make sure to clean all surfaces, including the straps, buckles and metal parts. For heavy soiling or stubborn stains, you can apply the cleaning solution a little more intensively, but be careful not to soak the leather.

4. dry the bridle: After you have cleaned the bridle, dry it with a cloth and allow it to air dry a little before you move on to leather care. Avoid direct heat sources such as sunlight or radiators, as these can dry out the leather. Make sure the bridle is completely dry before you use or store it again.

5. leather care: After cleaning, it is advisable to treat the bridle with a suitable leather care product. This will nourish and protect the leather and keep it supple and durable. Apply the care product thinly and evenly to the entire bridle and then polish it with a soft cloth to achieve a shiny finish.

10 tips for choosing the right bridle

The selection of bridles is huge. Whether patent, white-backed, with glitter or plain. There are now so many different bridles that it can be difficult to choose. First of all, the color doesn't matter to your horse, the important thing is that the bridle fits your horse and doesn't interfere or cause pressure points. 

We have already explained the different nosebands and their effects above, now you have to decide which bridle suits your horse. Our experts Andreas Kreuzer and Holger Wulschner explain what they look for when choosing the right equipment for their horses. From the bit to the bridle, the show jumpers explain the differences in equipment and how the equipment affects different horses.

The following 10 tips can help you find the right snaffle bridle:

1. fit is crucial: The correct fit of the bridle is crucial for the well-being of your horse and the effectiveness of your aids. Make sure that the headpiece is not too tight to avoid pressure points, but also not too loose to prevent the bridle from slipping. The noseband, for example, should be adjusted so that it does not constrict the horse but also does not slip around too far.

2. consider the riding discipline: Each riding discipline has specific bridle requirements. For example, dressage riders often require a bridle with a wide noseband for even pressure distribution, while western riders may prefer a sidepull that does not require a bit. Consider the requirements of your riding discipline to choose the right bridle.

3. choice of material: Leather is a traditional and durable material for bridles that can last for years with the right care. However, synthetic materials such as biothane are easier to clean and can be more weather resistant. Weigh up the pros and cons of the different materials and choose the one that best suits your needs.

4. noseband types: There are different types of nosebands, including English, Hanoverian, Mexican and combination nosebands. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of pressure distribution, action and comfort. Find out about the differences between the various types of noseband to choose the right one for your horse.

5 Choice of bit: Choosing the right bit is crucial for communication between rider and horse. Pay attention to the size, shape and material of the bit and choose one that suits your horse's mouth anatomy and sensitivity. A well-fitting bit enables precise aids to be given and prevents discomfort or injuries in the mouth area.

6. adjustability: A bridle with many adjustment options allows you to customize the bridle to your horse's individual needs. Make sure that the bridle is adjustable in several places, including the headpiece, noseband and throat lash, to ensure an optimal fit.

7. quality over quantity: High quality bridles may be more expensive at first, but it pays off in the long run. A high quality bridle is more durable, safer and more comfortable for your horse. Invest in a high quality bridle that will meet your horse's needs and last a long time.

8. pay attention to your horse's feedback: your horse will show you through its behavior whether the bridle fits correctly and is comfortable. Look for signs of discomfort such as head shaking, chewing or resistance when putting on the bridle. If you notice such signs, check the fit of the bridle and make adjustments if necessary.

9. get professional advice: If you are unsure which bridle is right for your horse, get professional help from a specialist or your trainer. An experienced professional can help you choose the right bridle and make sure it fits perfectly and is comfortable.

10. the proof of the pudding is in the eating: If possible, try out different bridles before deciding on one. This will allow you to test the fit, comfort and effectiveness of different bridles and choose the best one for your horse.

FAQs and tips on the use of bridles

1. can every horse wear the same noseband?

No, it depends on the horse's anatomy and needs. A horse with a sensitive bridge of the nose may need a special anatomical noseband that distributes the pressure evenly. Horses with broad heads may need a larger size to avoid cutting or rubbing. It is important to consider the individual needs of each horse in order to choose the right noseband.

2 How do I find the right bit?

Choosing the right bit depends on several factors, including mouth size, mouth shape and the horse's sensitivity. A horse with a sensitive mouth may need a bit with a soft mouthpiece or a specific bit shape to avoid discomfort. In the following video, we explain what you need to look out for as a rider:

3. how tight should the noseband be?

It should be adjusted so that there is still room for two fingers between the noseband and the horse. The correct adjustment of the noseband is crucial for the horse's well-being and safety. A noseband that is adjusted too tightly can lead to pressure points and discomfort, while one that is adjusted too loosely can slip and impair control of the horse.

4 Which is better: leather or synthetic material?

Leather is more durable and often more comfortable, synthetic materials are easier to care for and often cheaper. The decision between leather and synthetic material depends on personal preference as well as the rider's needs and budget. While leather is more durable and often more comfortable, synthetic materials are easier to care for and can be a good alternative for riders looking for a more cost-effective option.

5. how do I get my horse used to a new bridle or noseband?

Work slowly and with positive reinforcement to make it easier for the horse to adapt. Introducing a new bridle or noseband requires patience and a slow approach. Start with short training sessions and use positive reinforcement to help the horse adapt. Praise the horse and reward it (with treats) for calm behavior during training.