When you think of a bridle, you probably picture a horse with a thick leather strap attached to the head. However, the term “bridle” actually refers to the set of equipment used by a rider (or driver) to control a horse. This set of equipment typically includes several components, including a headstall, a bit, a crown or snaffle reins, and a bridle itself. The bridle is a universal standard for all disciplines of equestrianism and is used not only for communication but also for applying pressure to the horse’s mouth to aid in steering and balance. Western-style horse bridles are typically made from leather or rawhide (instead of metal), and use a different set of terminology than you might expect based on other types of horse bridles. This blog post will help you understand these differences so you can use a western-style bridle correctly and effectively when riding your horse.
Crown or Snaffle Reins
The crown or snaffle rein is a thin piece of leather attached to the bit and held in the rider’s hand. The use of these reins is common in Western-style disciplines such as roping, reining and cutting. The rider uses the snaffle rein to apply pressure to the horse’s mouth and communicate with the horse by pulling the bit in one direction or the other. Typically, when the reining horse is ready to stop, the rider will release the pressure on the bit by slightly pulling the snaffle rein to the side.The crown or snaffle rein may be made of leather or synthetic material.
Headstall
The headstall is a metal or synthetic piece of equipment that attaches the bit to the horse’s head. The headstall comes in many different styles, sizes, and materials. The headstall is typically made of iron or steel, but can also be made from plastic, rubber or other synthetic materials. The headstall is placed over the horse’s head to help keep the bit in place and prevent the horse from licking, pawing or whipping at the bit. A headstall is used in all disciplines of equestrianism.
Curved Bits
Curved bits are used in Western-style disciplines to help the rider maintain proper pressure on the horse’s mouth. A rider will usually use a straight bit in riding disciplines such as eventing and dressage, but a rider in Western-style disciplines will use a bit that is curved upward at the mouth piece.A rider will use a curve bit to help maintain balance when the horse is in motion. The rider will use the bit to help keep the horse in the correct position, and will use the bit to communicate with the horse.
Western Bridle Terminology
There are different types of western-style bridles, but they all share some common terms. Some of these terms may be familiar to you if you ride Western-style, but if not, they are important to know to help keep your horse from getting hurt while working. Here is a list of commonly used terminology related to horse bridles:
Spanish Bridle
A Spanish bridle is a type of Western-style bridle that is used to teach both basic Western-style riding skills and more complex riding techniques. The Spanish bridle is a very versatile bridle that can be used for many different disciplines, including reining, roping and cutting.A Spanish bridle has two reins attached to the bit – a snaffle and a curb chain. The curb chain is attached to the Spanish bridle with a curb chain ring. The snaffle rein is attached to the bit with a snaffle ring.The rider uses the curb chain to apply pressure to the horse’s mouth and help the horse remain in a certain position. The rider uses the snaffle rein to apply pressure to the horse’s mouth and communicate with the horse.Spanish bridles can be made of leather or synthetic materials.
Nonslip Bit Clips
Nonslip bit clips are used to attach the bit to the bridle. The clip should be attached to the bit with a metal bit ring. The clip should be attached to the bridle with a metal bit ring.The clip should be made of metal, rubber or plastic.
Conclusion
Horse bridles are very important pieces of equipment in equestrianism, and it is important to choose the right style for your horse and your needs. A correct and well-fitted horse bridle will help you to communicate with your horse, assist you in maintaining proper control of the horse, and minimize the risk of injury to both horse and rider.When you are shopping for a horse bridle, it is important to keep a few things in mind. First, you will want to select a bridle that fits your horse’s head and mouth comfortably. You will also want to select a bridle that has the appropriate type of bit in the correct position.When using a Western-style bridle, it is important to use the correct terminology in order to communicate effectively with your horse and to help prevent injury. When you use the correct terminology, your horse will understand what you want to do, and you will be able to control the horse more effectively.