Headcollars, Bridles & Bits for Icelandic Horses

What size should headcollars be for Icelandic horses?

Icelandic horses are classified as ponies, but they have a relatively broad head. This fact can affect the purchase of a suitable headcollar for an Icelandic horse. Basically, an Icelandic horse will fit a cob size headcollar. These are excellent for horses with short noses but broad foreheads. However, since every horse is different, one should not assume a standard size. Especially with Icelandic horses, the headcollar sizes can vary in how large or tight they fit on the horse's head. It's best to try out whether your horse might fit a cob size headcollar, or perhaps a pony or full size would be more suitable. When selecting the right headcollar, look for multiple adjustment options at the neckpiece and chin. This provides a greater variety of fitting adjustments.
Our Icelandic headcollars by FENGUR are available in Pony and Cob sizes. Their beautiful designs capture the essence of Iceland. In our online shop, you can purchase both elegant leather headcollars for Icelandic horses as well as sturdy headcollars with or without teddy fleece. The various adjustment options offer a wide range of headcollar sizes, making our FENGUR headcollars suitable for different horse heads.

Which bits are suitable for Icelandic horses?

Icelandic horses are gaited horses that are not often ridden in haute école. Their forte is their four to five gaits and their balanced temperament, making them a versatile leisure horse. This is also reflected in the choice of bit for Icelandic horses. Often, single- or double-jointed bits are used. The choice here is between bits with round or D-rings. Full cheek bits can also be used; the best solution must be found for each individual horse.
Curb bits are rarely used. However, the so-called Icelandic curb bit can be an ideal aid when riding gaited horses, especially when tölting. The Icelandic curb bit is used without a bradoon, which makes it rather unsuitable for dressage riding. Naturally, certain prerequisites must be met for the use of the curb bit. Both rider and horse must have "matured" for the use of an Icelandic curb bit.
In our online shop, you can purchase single- and double-jointed bits for Icelandic horses. To suit the delicate mouth of an Icelandic horse, you'll find among Icelandic bits a bit size ranging from 9.5cm to 12.5cm. For FENGUR bits, the bit thickness is 14mm, ensuring the horse has enough room for its tongue and that the corners of the mouth are not irritated or pinched. In addition to our range of bits for Icelandic horses, you'll find an even wider selection of bits in the corresponding category.

Which bridles are suitable for Icelandic horses?

Icelandic horses are extremely clever animals with an alert expression, which is due in no small part to their broad foreheads and tapered muzzles. The ratio between the broad forehead and short head should therefore be taken into account when choosing a bridle. Bridles for Icelandic horses are designed to accommodate these special characteristics. Visually, Icelandic bridles hardly differ from other models - Icelandic horses are ridden with a flash- or drop noseband, where different bits, mostly loose ring snaffle bits, are used. For more variety, some Icelandic riders use a plain headstall, which is also used for training. If necessary, this can be supplemented with a noseband to turn a simple training bridle into a drop bridle, for example.
To emphasise the love for mystical Iceland, you can use embellished browbands for Icelandic horses. You'll find more than just browbands from FENGUR in our range of bridle accessories for Icelandic horses. You can also buy reins with snap hooks to make attaching them easier in our online shop. Choose from a variety of mix & match FENGUR headstalls to provide your Icelandic horse with the utmost comfort.
You can read more information on equipment for Icelandic horses in our guide about Icelandic riding.

What size bridle is needed for Icelandic horses?

As with headcollars, there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to bridles for Icelandic horses. Generally, you can follow the sizes for Cobs. Nevertheless, each horse should be considered individually, so you'll need to try out different Icelandic bridles and sizes.
If you'd like to order a bridle for your Icelandic horse from our online shop but aren't sure which size to choose, you can first measure your horse's head. You'll find detailed instructions on how to do this, including the relevant measurements, in the FAQ section of our guide to bridles.

How long should reins be for Icelandic horses?

The length of the reins for an Icelandic horse depends on its physique, i.e. its body measurements. The reins should be chosen so that the horse has enough freedom to stretch. However, they should not be so long that there is too much excess hanging down the neck, which can be a hazard. At the same time, the reins should not be too short, as they would otherwise restrict the horse and take the rider out of their balanced seat.
You can use your horse's height at the withers as a guide for the appropriate length:

• Shetland Pony (up to 12.1 hands): 200cm to 220cm rein length
• Pony / Icelandic Horse (12.3 to 14.1 hands): 240cm to 260cm rein length
• Full (14.3 to 16.1 hands): 270cm to 300cm rein length
• Extra Full (from 16.3 hands): 320cm to 360cm rein length