Showing novice - which bridle for hunter class?

[Katkin]

Hi, looking for advice about which bridle to use for hunter classes at riding club level. Last year I had a go at a couple of hunter classes using my normal bridle and french link loose ring snaffle. We did quite well all told and this year I've invested in a nice new bridle with thick flat noseband to suit my horses head. However I've been told that I should be using a double bridle for an open class. I don't really want to mess around with bits too much as she's going very well in the snaffle. Would it really make that much difference to a judge or should I invest in a pelham with french link as suggested by a friend which would give the appearance of a double? Those of you that judge, what do you think? Go for it with normal bit or start experimenting to achieve the correct "look"? Thanks in advance for replies.

 

[mle22]

I think a nice bridle that suits the horse's head can really improve the overall look for showing. We used a pelham in one of our horses who really didn't like the double bits (she had a snall mouth) so while I don't think it is absolutely correct in terms of high level showing I think it would be fine for riding club level. Good luck with finding the right look!

 

[star]

yes you should have a bit with double reins for open classes. it looks much smarter. neither of mine are esp happy in a double (natives with small mouths) so i use a french link rugby pelham which looks like a double from a distance as has the extra sliphead.

 

[MissSBird]

Ideal in open classes you should use a double bridle or pelhams. These days things are a little bit more flexible as to which. As long as you have the double reins, it generally works!