Showing in a bitless?

[Inona]

My pony was broken in in a bitless bridle and has never had a bit. I would like to show her in some in-hand shows and maybe some riding but not jumping. I was wondering if I would be allowed to show her in a bitless? Right now she has one that looks a bit like a headcollar so I'd get her a smarter leather one. Also the show is nothing big, just local pony club shows. I don't really want to put a bit in her mouth if at all possible as I can imagine that she would not have a very good reaction! Also if this is not allowed, would I be allowed a purely rubber bit (this is the only kind I would ever put in her mouth I think.)
Thank you

 

[Tnavas]

Technically you would be expected to show in a bitted bridle. In hand you can get away with a very smart headcollar - though this may depend on the class type.

Pony Club shows - you possibly might hit a no bitless - a safety thing!

Should you decide to bit her a rubber bit is not the best idea. Rubber may in itself be soft BUT unless the horse keeps it really wet it catches and can tear the skin.

You might like to consider a nylon bit - such as a Happy Mouth. Anything made of a material that is softer then the horse needs to be kept a careful eye on. The Happy Mouth bits do get sharp after a while in places where the horse might chew it.

The majority of horses will happily accept a bit if introduced with care and used tactfully.

 

[Enfys]

I think you could vertainly get away without one in in hand classes.

Local level shows are more about getting money in the cashbox than much else but you will most likely be asked why she isn't in a bit. Jumping --> no-one cares.

I personally believe that being accustomed to a bit is a lifeskill that all horses should have (unless there is a physical reason not to), the same as tying, loading, feet and all the other essential musthaves that make a horses life more comfortable for them.

You may never ride her in one but if you should have to part with her, a new owner might wish to.

 

[cambrica]

Showing inhand you will have no problem. There are many bitless show bridles in leather or webbing / rope halters (as seen alot in the welsh classes)
As for ridden showing at local level I doubt you would have too much of a problem. This link shows a beautiful Clydesdale being shown bitless (if you scroll down). http://www.bitlessbridle.co.uk/bitless-bridle-feedback.php

I do also agree though that it wouldn't hurt to get her used to a bit . You do also have to be careful which bit you use for showing as many are frowned upon.