Loose ring snaffle bits

[Girlychu]

Hi

Quick question what are the benefits of using a bit that has loose rings? Ive never used one but I have been asked and I dont know

thanks

 

[tallyho!]

I like them as they encourage self-carriage as the sliding action helps to stop the horse fixing on the bit.

That's my stance on it, different horses/people like different things hence why thousands of bits on market.

 

[Girlychu]

Thanks Tallyho! That does make sense. Do you need to use bit guards ?

 

[tallyho!]

Hmmm good question! I don't and my horse is not injured without it, can't see what a bit guard would achieve personally, but again, you do see them being used...

 

[lara b]

They can pinch so I don't like them personally, but depends on your horse I guess

 

[Tickles]

Bit guards are supposed to stop tiny bits of your horse's skin getting trapped between the ring and the mouth piece. I expect it is one of those 'not very often but hurts when it happens' things.

 

[Girlychu]

Sorry for all these questions and thanks for the responces. How do you measure the rings? For example a 15hh cob would need bigger rings then say a 12 hh pony. How would we measure the rings to suit the horses head? Hope that makes sense

 

[Tnavas]

They can pinch if the bit is too small - measure your horses mouth and add at least 20mm to get a more suitable fit.

They are good for horses that lean.

 

[ivandenisovich10]

My ex racer is in a loose ring, he seems very happy in it so see no need to change it