The bitless bridle is a broad term referring to tack used to control the horse without the use of the bit. Developed without a mouthpiece, its intention is to remove all actions from the mouth and instead place pressure on various parts of the horse's head. This type of bridle is available in a variety of designs, however there are two main categories which work in slightly different ways known as the bitless bridle and hackamore.
Bitless bridles work by distributing pressure around the horse's head when a contact is applied on the reins. These areas include: the bridge of the nose, under the chin, over the poll and along either side of the cheeks. When fitting this bridle begin with the noseband which should offer a distance of around 1.5 - 2 inches between the corners of the horse's mouth and the bottom edge of the noseband; the height can be adjusted by the two cheekpieces on either side. Once fastened, one flat finger should fit between the nose and noseband. Importantly, this noseband must sit against the bone and not on the soft cartilage at the end of the nose. The browband is fitted in the same manner as an ordinary bridle and the cross-under straps should lie flat against the horse's lower jaw.
A hackamore is the original bridle without a bit and works in a slightly different manner than the bitless bridle. Fitted with shanks, it provides leverage to place pressure over the nose, poll, and chin groove. Longer shanks and the material or thickness the noseband is made from will both increase the intensity of this bridle on the horse's head. This bridle can be strong if incorrectly used, it is primarily designed to be ridden on a soft rein which is only implemented when control is required, therefore not suitable for schooling in. The noseband should be fitted around 4 fingers above the nostrils, and one flat finger between the nose and noseband.
There are a variety of reasons why a bitless bridle may be used on the horse. It is sometimes worn as a temporary measure to enable the equine to remain in work whilst they recover from a mouth injury, or awaiting a visit from the dentist if they have issues with their teeth. For those with an extremely sensitive mouth, or if they object or struggle to accept the use of a bit, this bridle can offer an alternative solution. Typically the most common reason why the bitless bridle is used is down to personal preference, with many people claiming it is more natural, and kinder, for the horse if the bit is removed completely.
When introducing the bitless bridle it must be done slowly, especially if the horse is accustomed to wearing a bit. For the first few times, or until the horse understands the aids from the bitless bridle, they should be ridden in an enclosed arena and be taught how to stop, go forward, and steer in it. This allows the equine to build up their confidence and adjust to the different signals and aids it gives. This bridle is designed to be used with limited contact on the reins.
As with any restrain the method in which it is used will ultimately determine its severity. Misuse or ill-fitting of the bitless bridle will cause discomfort, pain or facial trauma on the horse. Extreme pressure on the reins can result in serious damage to the poll area, which is highly sensitive due to the large amount of nerves surrounding it. Furthermore, as the horse has no ability to breath from their mouth, if the noseband area is fitted too low down or tight on the nostril it will restrict normal breathing which could hinder oxygen intake during exercise.
Whilst some do prefer working in the bitless bridle, it does not suit every horse. The heightened pressure it places onto the nose, poll and jaw can create a strong reaction or objection from the equine, especially if not introduced or used carefully and correctly. Ultimately, regardless of personal opinion, the choice of whether to ride in a bit or go bitless should be determined solely on which is the most suitable for each individual horse. This will be evident by their responses to the aids, and which one they perform and relax the best in. Furthermore, the discipline the equine is being trained for will also dictate this decision as it is not permitted in certain competitions.
This type of bridle can used for hacking, general schooling or jumping, and endurance riding. Both British Dressage and the dressage phase of British Eventing do not permit its use. Unaffiliated competitions organised by either the BHS or British Riding Club may permit the bitless bridle to be used, but individual competitions should be queried in advance. In British showjumping and the showjumping and cross country phases of BE horses only are permitted to use a bitless bridle, ponies are prohibited.
