Control differences between cavesson and Micklem/flash?

[Crazydancer]

A question following a conversation had tonight at the yard.
Using the same bit, what difference in control, if any, would you expect between a bridle with a standard cavesson noseband and say a Micklem bridle, or one with a flash noseband?

 

[Moomin1]

The cavesson provides no control whatsoever, it's more aesthetic than there for any functional reason.

 

[Crazydancer]

Agreed, (in fact in the example being discussed the horse wears no noseband at all) but what control does the Micklem or flash give? I ask as I genuinely don't know as I've never used either. In fact never used any sort of noseband other than a cavesson to complete the 'look' for showing. I understand it keeps the mouth shut but how does that give more control?

 

[be positive]

Agreed, (in fact in the example being discussed the horse wears no noseband at all) but what control does the Micklem or flash give? I ask as I genuinely don't know as I've never used either. In fact never used any sort of noseband other than a cavesson to complete the 'look' for showing. I understand it keeps the mouth shut but how does that give more control?

It depends what you mean by control, a cavesson done up firmly will prevent a horse opening its mouth wide to evade the bit not ideal but it does give a degree of extra control in certain circumstances. Any noseband will prevent some evasion, if done up tightly it may cause more resistance and tension.
I use a micklem on my horse and the same, straight Nathe, bit that he used with a cavesson I have noticed little difference if he does try and run through the bridle, his way of avoiding something he sees as scary but it is used to help reduce the pressure on his face as he is a headshaker and to keep the bit as still as possible following a mouth injury not to give me any extra control.

 

[Crazydancer]

Interesting, thank you.

 

[Mrs G]

A Micklem, drop noseband or flash strap discourage the horse from opening his mouth to evade the bit, particularly useful if the horse tries to get his tongue over the bit (then you'd notice some 'control' issues)! No noseband should ever be done up very tight though, its meant to discourage it, not prevent it completely in a "strap its mouth shut" type of way which unfortunately does happen.