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Western Bits

From snaffle to pole bit at the horse's pace

If you ask around the horse world, most people will probably recognize the western team as the team with the big pole bite and loose reins. However, make no mistake, this is not where the horse starts its career - there is a lot of work and preparation before the horse has the carriage and signals in place to walk with a western bit and the completely loose rein. No matter where the western horse is in its training, it's important that we choose a bit that fits the horse and doesn't bother it unnecessarily. Although the bit is a human invention and not a horse's need, it is an important and effective tool in horse training as long as we use it correctly - simply put, the bit is never stronger than the hand holding the rein.

There are many factors that come into play when it comes to horse bits. It can therefore be a good idea to consult a professional who knows a lot about bit fitting, as many problems between horse and rider can stem from an incorrect bit that is associated with discomfort or even pain for the horse.

Bit Sizer
10,63 EUR(incl. VAT)
13,29 EURincl. VAT
Retail price 13,29incl. VAT

When we talk about bit adaptation, the horse's level of training plays a role in the choice of bit. For example, the level of training determines how soft or hard the bit should be and the degree of tongue freedom. There are a number of certified Myler dealers who are also happy to help with bit fitting - and it can be a great advantage to have a pair of professional eyes.

Myler The bits are known for their tongue-free mouthpieces. With a tongue-free bit, you get a more relaxed horse, partly because it can swallow when it wants to. With traditional two-piece snaffle bits, the bit is on the tongue, so the horse doesn't have the freedom and ability to swallow. This can affect the horse's entire musculoskeletal system, as the tongue and hyoid are connected to the muscles in the lower neck, and the muscles in the lower neck are connected to the sternum and abdominal muscles. So if you ride with a dressage bit with a free tongue, you're giving your horse a horse that is not restricted in its movements, but can move freely and with the correct carriage in the right frame.

If you want to show your western horse, pay attention to whether the class you want to enter requires you to ride with a pole bit. If it does, but you're not used to riding with a bar bit, you should contact a skilled western trainer who can help you with the introduction to a bar - both so you can learn to ride with it yourself and if your horse has never had a bar bit in its mouth before.