Which Bit Should I Choose for my Horse?
Updated: June 2026 · Rincón del Valle Team
Which bit should I choose for my horse?
The choice of bit depends on the horse's sensitivity, its training level, and the discipline. As starting points: young or sensitive horses → double-jointed with copper or rubber; trained horses → single-jointed or non-jointed; advanced dressage → bits with leverage and curb chain (at advanced levels). The width is measured from end to end of the mouthpiece (10.5-14 cm are common).
Joint
Single: nutcracker effect on the tongue. Double (central link): distributes pressure, more accepted. Non-jointed: uniform pressure, for trained horses.
Material
Stainless steel: standard, neutral. Copper/Sensogan (Sprenger): promotes salivation. Sweet iron: similar effect to copper. Rubber: the softest, for very sensitive horses or beginners.
Discipline
Basic dressage: double-jointed copper. Jumping: single-jointed or double-jointed. Advanced dressage: curb bits with curb chain (only at high levels).
Related resources
Extended information
Main types
The snaffle bit, jointed snaffle, double bridle, serreta, pelham, and hackamore are the main groups. Each acts on different points: tongue, bars, corner of the mouth, palate, nose. No bit is universally better; the right one is the one for each horse and each discipline.
Correct adjustment
The width must correspond to the horse's mouth, with half a centimeter of margin on each side. The height is adjusted to form one or two soft wrinkles at the corner of the mouth, without tension. A poorly adjusted bit due to size or height is a common cause of horse resistance that does not respond to rider correction.
Frequently asked questions
Does a more severe bit offer better control?
Almost never. What controls is the horse's training and the rider's hands, not the bit.
Can you ride bitless?
Yes, with a hackamore or rope halter. In regulated competitions, a bit is usually mandatory.
How do I know if the bit fits the horse well?
Relaxed closed mouth, soft chewing of the bit, absence of sustained resistance.
