Bitless for control

[UKa]

Hi - my pony seems to dislike any bit. I tried a fair few and had bit fitter out. No physical issues. She goes lovely in a sidepull bitless but the other day I had no control out hacking when she decided to canter down a hill. Also a little more spooky now it’s spring. I have gone back to hacking with a bit but as soon as I take up contact she grimaces and opens her mouth etc. is there a Bitless option that may help avoid such precarious situations? She’s generally a very easy going pony but it’s just odd moments thanks

 

[AShetlandBitMeOnce]

You could try a bitless with leverage like a hackamore, as long as you're aware/considerate of the fact that being bitless doesn't necessarily make it kind and with rough hands the pressure applied to the face can be immense.

 

[UKa]

I wondered that. I am an average rider however with solid balance - I take care not to rely on my hands for riding hopefully the leverage would mean immediate control when needed….

 

[AShetlandBitMeOnce]

I wondered that. I am an average rider however with solid balance - I take care not to rely on my hands for riding hopefully the leverage would mean immediate control when needed….

it's worth a try, I have always felt like it's better to have the stopping power and not need it then need it and not have it. Harsh bits/nosebands are only harsh when they are being used, if you have a loose rein the rest of the time and a gentle hand when you do need it, then it is of no consequence (within reason ofc, some bits/nosebands should just be banned but that's another story for another day)

Please make sure you fit them far up enough on the nose that you aren't putting the noseband on the delicate bones at the bottom. Low fitted hackamores are a pet hate of mine! There's lots of online resources on how to fit them properly.

 

[MuddyMonster]

I'd try something like the Zilco flower or Orbitless - you could ride with two reins, one on the sidepull setting & 1 on the lower ring when needed.