Snaffle Bits

How does a snaffle bit work?

The snaffle bit is the loose ring snaffle bit among the Western bits. It is available single or double jointed, with O-rings, D-rings or as an eggbutt bit. In the single jointed version, it acts on the horse's bars and tongue. If the rein is pulled on one side, the snaffle bit only acts on the corresponding side of the bit. Aids can therefore be given in a differentiated manner.

With a double jointed snaffle bit, the bit rests completely on the tongue. This variant also acts on the bars and tongue, the pressure is distributed more widely. However, caution is advised here, because if the reins are pulled too hard, the horse cannot escape the pressure on the bars by lifting its tongue.

In contrast to a cavesson bridle, Western bridles do not have a noseband that attaches to the bit or gives it guidance. Therefore, a chin strap is useful with a snaffle bit to prevent the bit from slipping through the mouth, being pulled or diluting the signalling.

For which horses are snaffle bits suitable?

A single jointed snaffle bit is ideal for young horses that need to be introduced to a mouthpiece slowly. With a snaffle bit, lateral aids can be transmitted clearly, so the single jointed bit is a sensible follow-up step for riding with a sidepull.

There are even junior classes in which young horses aged three to four are presented exclusively in snaffle bits ambidextrously.

What is the minimum thickness of the snaffle bit?

Snaffle bits come in different thicknesses. When choosing the thickness of the mouthpiece, the horse's anatomy must be considered. This is because the metal takes up valuable space in the horse's mouth. If the horse has little space between the bars and has a fleshy tongue, you are often better off with a thin snaffle bit than with a thick one. That a thin bit is sharper per se cannot be said as a general rule. On the one hand, the rider's hand determines the harshness of the bit, and on the other hand, small and Western-type horses in particular welcome less metal in their already small mouths.

We carry snaffle bits from STONEDEEK or Sprenger, which are consistently light in weight and therefore do not put unnecessary pressure on the bars. Our snaffle bits have a thickness of 11 to 13 mm, which means they take up little valuable space in the horse's mouth. This makes it more comfortable for the horse and the acceptance of the bit is greater as a result. At the same time, the bits are not too thin or too light, which could make the bit clatter annoyingly in the mouth.