Loose rings allow the horse to move the bit with its tongue, relieving pressure on the tongue and bars.
The mouthpiece returns to a neutral position, so the bit only acts in response to direct rein pressure.
Lateral guidance: This cheekpiece does not provide lateral guidance.
Correct positioning: Position the cheekpiece about 0.5 cm away from the corners of the mouth on both sides to avoid pinching the sensitive skin with the ring.
Suitable for young horses: A good choice for horses that are still getting used to the feel of a bit.
Bit type: Bits with this type of cheekpiece are known as loose-ring snaffles.
The eggbutt bit prevents pinching of the mouth corners and provides light lateral stability.
Due to the fixed position and shape of the ring, the bit sits more steadily in the horse’s mouth.
Effect: Eggbutt bits have a similar effect to loose-ring snaffles, but the rein action is somewhat more direct.
Stability: The fixed rings provide light lateral guidance and help the bit remain steady in the horse’s mouth.
Rider suitability: Due to the more direct rein action, eggbutt bits are not recommended for riders who do not have an independent seat.
Correct sizing: Choose the size so that the bit rests laterally against the corners of the mouth.
The D-Ring bit has a similar effect to an eggbutt bit. It prevents pinching of the mouth corners while providing increased lateral stabilization and guidance.
Stability: The cheekpiece provides additional stability and helps the bit remain steady in the horse’s mouth.
Lateral guidance: The D-shaped rings provide more lateral stabilization and guidance than an eggbutt bit.
Rein action: The slightly larger rings reduce the impact of the rider’s hand somewhat.
Correct sizing: Choose the size so that the bit rests laterally against the corners of the mouth.
The full cheek snaffle is an ideal training bit. The cheeks provide clear lateral support and guidance, making it easier to guide the horse through turns.
Lateral guidance: The cheeks provide clear lateral support and help guide the horse, particularly through turns.
Rein action: Due to the smaller cheek rings, the action of the rider’s hand is more direct.
Suitable for show jumping: This type of cheekpiece is commonly used in show jumping, where additional lateral guidance can be beneficial.
Suitable for lunging: The bit remains stable in the horse’s mouth and is not displaced by unilateral pulling.
Correct sizing: Choose the size so that the bit rests laterally against the corners of the mouth.
The distinctive cheekpiece of the Baucher bit features two rings: the upper ring attaches to the cheekpieces of the bridle, while the reins are attached to the lower ring.
Stability: Due to the fixed attachment to the bridle, the Baucher bit sits very steadily in the horse’s mouth and does not hang down.
Lateral guidance: The fixed cheekpieces provide light lateral stabilization.
Rein action: When the reins are taken up, the action primarily affects the corners of the mouth, encouraging the horse to lift its head.
No leverage: Despite its appearance, the Baucher bit does not have a lever action. When rein pressure is applied, the cheekpieces move outward.
Correct positioning: The cheekpiece should rest lightly against the corners of the mouth.
This cheekpiece offers four different fastening options, allowing the pressure distribution and effect to be adjusted individually.
Option 1 – Loose-ring effect: Attach the bridle to the upper small ring and the reins to the large ring. The effect is similar to that of a loose-ring snaffle.
Option 2 – Slight leverage: Attach the bridle to the upper small ring and the reins to the small lower ring. This creates a slight lever action on the mouth and poll.
Option 3 – Increased mouth action: Attach the bridle to the large ring and the reins to the small lower ring. This creates a greater effect on the mouth, as the bit rings can only slide partially.
Option 4 – Significant leverage: Attach the bridle to the small rings and use two pairs of reins, one on the bridle ring and one on the large ring. This creates significant lever action on the poll and a lifting effect on the mouth.
Warning: This fastening option should only be used temporarily and by experienced riders.
Correct sizing: The basic structure is a loose ring supplemented by two internal rings. Choose the size so that there is approximately 0.5 cm of space on both sides.
