WOW, can't believe how many nasty people out there love to hate. Seriously folks, these people aren't saying you HAVE to ride bitless but that it's another option. I ride endurance with my 7 year arab and she loves being able to eat easily as we go along which is good practice for a long distance athlete like an endurance horse. Riding bitless isn't for everyone and certainly isn't for rough or inconsiderate riders but many people (and their horses) enjoy the benefits it brings.
@whisk29043 Well said. I use a bitless as well, although my mare sometimes "forgets" to maintain her balance in it, when that happens I simply go to a simple copper full-cheek snaffle to help her remember. When she starts collecting properly, I simply switch back to the bitless. I find myself using the bit less and less as she improves with the bitless.
Bitless riding is not for everyone. Same with shoes. I do have to say that I lived around a horse who, after just a few months of having a bit in his mouth, and we are talking his rider was trained by one of the best in her country so quite hands, no pulling. he refused to accept the bit. She tried bitless and he loved it Then again, I know horses that if they don't have a bit in their mouths there is nothing you can't control them. All that matters is that you and your horse are happy!
Because I'm not a redneck petalover. My horse is perfectly fine with his bit, infact, whenver i slide the bit close to his mouth he opens it right away and know's were ready for a ride. That's called good horsemanship. Not this crap. Get your crap right. lawd.
Why don't I ride bitless? I have no need to. My horse is perfectly happy in her bit, and I can use it without putting so much pressure on their nose and poll, like I would should I ride in a bitless bridle.
Yes it it all about the individual horse and rider. Some people do not know enough about the bit they are using in order to use it well. All this is is a glorified hackamore with the shanks or a side pull without the shanks. We've had them in the US for ages. I have a horse that won't listen in a snaffle, throws his head with a hackamore, but is seems happy with a Loose 7 bit. Just a bar with a port and roller and 7 inch shanks. I hardly ever have to get in his mouth with the bit. No fussing.
It is unfair to say one is better than the other as they both have advantages and disadvantages. I think the individual needs and comfort of the horse should be considered initially before deciding upon one. Going bitless might make you feel like you are doing something for the best, when in fact the horse can't stand the pressure on its face and vice versa? Lots of things to considor on this topic!
Bitless put just as much of an uncomfortable sensation on a horses head as a bit. Bits work by pressure on various areas of a horses head and mouth and so does a bitless bridle. A bit is just pressure within the mouth and a bitless bridle is pressure on the more sensitive areas of a horses face, top of the maxilla and poll pressure. BOTH can be severe in the wrong hands and BOTH can be used incorrectly and cause discomfort or injury?
A bit COULD be used in a OK way, but it's very rare... And it's completly possible with any horse, just not any rider. So i'm not saying I'm against bit, but i'm truly for bitless!
Why do i see all those vids:O with bittless etc... omg Just like tthey said before find some cruel pics of ppl with bits in and its like everyone is cruel when they ride with a bit.... And to be honest putting pressure on the nose isnt good as well srry. Learn how a horse is build and all, and THEN you start with making vids ^_^.
Caus in reality riding a horse is BAD for the horse(not mentally, its the build of his bones. so yeah goodluck with all this BS
ohh yeaa its probaly because my horse gollops buck rears up when i had a snaffle so if i was to ride bittless i would die god stop telling me what to do
My horse is 5, and works well in a bit. Im proud of it. :] It is not abuse, and it doesnt hurt them unless the rider has heavy hands, the bit doesnt fit or is the wrong kind for your horse.
Until a week ago i was using a bit, although my horse didn't particularly like the bit. Yes i know it's not cruelty but it is uncomfortable, i know this because a lot of horses find it so uncomfortable they open their mouths so we put a flash on (my horse included) and the first day i changed to a english hackamore he was fab, so happy we even jumped the logs in the forest (FIRST DAY!) i was so pleased considering he is 12 and always had a bit. Oh btw he is a very strong TB ex racer
this is a mechanical hackamore. It is a leverage device. Been riding 46 years with bits, true hackamores, bozals, side pulls, halters, and nothing at all. Have not had good results with mechanical hackamores.
I have had quite a few horses brought to me "hating bits" but the rider couldn't work with them in a bitless bridle. In every case so far, I have been successful by going back to ground communication, and respect, and when I put a bit in their mouth once they understand what is being asked for, they have gone beautifully.
There are hundreds of bits out there, all of them have different uses for different riding areas. A bit should never hurt the horse. If a rider pulls too hard on the bit, then of course it's gonna hurt and people are gonna label that as bit abuse, when it's not, it's just an idiot rider who needs to learn how to use the bit better. Don't think that all hackamores are gentle either. Some of them, like the mechanical Hackamore, are extremely harsh for the horse, and I'd never use one on my horses
well i dont like the idea of pressure on the horses mouth..... id rather have some pressure on the nose.... havent you ever riden in a halter?? if i was a horse i would much rather have some pressure on my face rather than in it....
@yani0896 Did you know horses have a vertibrae on the poll? Did u know that horses can dislocate their poll because of this? Well this device puts alot off poll preasure too, which can seriously dislocate it. Then the horse has a 24/7 migrane feeling....id much rather have an hour with a bit than a painfull constant migrane headace.
ok two things 1. us jogging with a tablespoon in out mouths is completely irrelevent because our mouth have teeth all the was back were as horses mouths dont, and a tablespoon is not shaped for our mouths 2. bits aren;t necessarily cruel you just need the proper bit, sometimes bitless bridles can be cruel, expecially ones that apply pressure to the poll through leverage. Im not saying that going bitless isn't a good think im just saying all bits aren;t cruel
ik zou ook liver bitloos rijden, maar dat kan gewoon niet bij alle paarden, en vooral niet bij mijn paarden, die zijn veel te druk en moeilijk, om zo zonder bit te rijden, en ik snap dat het pijn kan doen, maar als je tog gewoon het juiste bit uitzoekt, en niet snukt of zulke dingen in zijn mond doet is dat tog ook goed?
@Pukkyluf Ben ik mee eens hoor. Ik zou het niet eens durven. Wij rijden aangespannen en zonder bit zou dat levensgevaarlijk zijn. Erg leuk bitloos, vooral voor iemand die super gespecialiseerd is, maar je zou het de grootste ongelukken krijgen als iedereen ineens bitloos zou rijden. Daarbij weet ik dat vele ´bitloze bitten´ zo´n druk uitoefenen op het neusbeen dat dat kan breken. Gewoon een goed en niet te scherp bit gebruiken en normaal doen dan kan het echt geen kwaad.
if you ride with a mechanichal hackmore und you pull really, really hard you can break the horses nose. if you ride with a pelham bit and you pull hard you can break the horses jaw-bone
In the wrong hands a bitless bridle, especially one with leverage, ie shanks, is still an instrument of torture - just of the face rather than the mouth. It isn't automatically kinder than a bit, just different. I'm not against them at all, I just hate seeing horses being pulled about in them by riders who think it's not hurting the horse when it is. If you can't stop a horse without inflicting pain on it, s/he needs re-schooling...
i personally HATE bits.and affter a year or to the horse learns that they can become 'under the bit'( to drop the bit low in the mouth to prevent pressure) and the how well does it work? bitless is one of the best ways to train a young horse.
@midnigt2 You can teach a horse to evade just as well in a bitless bridle as you can using a bit, and you can teach them to go well in either - assuming the tack is suitable and fits, it's a question of the rider's skill, not the type of equipment...
great idea but i think it would sute some horses and riders but not nesesarly other there are some out there that just don't like the pressures exurted by the bitless action and would react badly to it. definlty one peac of equipment that you need to read the instructions with and i'm not that brave enough to try it on any of the horses that i have ever sat on!!!!!
i like this video i want to ride with a lg bridle and the bit if you pull so hard on the bit for the horse to stop lg bridle dont have a bit that woud be easy to ride with one
thats very nice and beautiful, but have you ever tried to stop racing horses with that thing? impossible i think. i like this bitless whatever but for me its hard to imagine to use that on my horse... o.O
a lot of high level dressage competitions require yout o use a double bridle with the two bits so do a lot of western competitions they require you to use a bit
@07bstatham not true.. I train problem horses..and most of the problems are fixed with a bitless.. My mare used to be very aggressive , bolted, bucked, and etc.. all fixed with a bitless.. its just poor reasoning for a bit.. my new boy is now being transferred over to a bitless.. there is no reason for a bit. unless your scared to ride without one.
The best riders in the world, with the best horses, sharing the best relationships are the ones who focus on CORRECT SCHOOLING, using the phylosophies of classical dressage. I am all for a horse's comfort, and have a Dr Cook bitless myself, as well as bitted bridles. In my experience, it is the schooling of the horse and the hand, heart and physical amptitude of the rider that makes all the difference!
Not that I'm an expert in high level dressage, but it looks to me like the dressage stallion was dropping his back and not through at all from back to front. I have no doubts that this device works well, but maybe not for dressage... but I definitely would like to give it a try. I love bitless bridles, and this one looks like a good one. I believe in saving the mouth! ;)
it depends on how you use the bitless bridle and a bridle with a bit. For a kind, light handed rider riding bitless brings the same comfort to a horse as the bit does. (it does depend on the bit and how it is used) The bitless bridles or a rope halter, buts pressure on the horses poll, some horses HATE this, others prefer it to the metal bar in the mouth. I ride in a vary - with a bit, without a bit, without any tack or string or halter. It completly depends on the horse you have and the rider.
ok. you have TRUELY inspired me. I was look ing for ways that i could use bridles without bits and SURELY this is the one! I also love the style and everything. I too is sick of looking at bit problems and accidents with them. so thank you for posting this video, rideforpleasure!
My horses that I ride, ride bitless and my GOODNESS it act like there is a bit in their mouth! By that, I mean that they are sensitive and listen. I don't like bits.
Thats not true, I have a mare that when I dont have a bit in her mouth she is harder than hell to control, but with a bit I can ride her with 1 finger and do anything with her. And she loves her bit!
LOVES HER BIT?!! are you out of you f***king mind? how can you possibly think that? she has been BROKEN to a bit so how can she no any different?! what do you expect? she cant tell you how helpless she feels and when shes in pain or your pulling too hard and hurting her?!
All you need is a lil understanding and patience to teach her how to respond WITHOUT using a bit.
It seems so unfair that horses have to take the blame just because they have no voice.
You know what YA she does LOVE her bit! And how would YOU know what she does and does not like! You have never even seen or been around my mare! Or ever Ridden her! And so i think I would know what she likes and what she doesnt! And if you have a bond wit your horse you should be able to tell what they like or dont. They dont need a voice. And she will let me know if im hurting her.
@kelliefan1017 I agree with you. My horse likes her bit now. I changed it because i got tired of her throwing her head, so i figured i would try some thing different.
@Leannayoung22 : every horse is different. Some like bits others dont...everyone is going to have an opinion, one isnt better than the other, they;re just opinions. and trying to change someone's mind on a youtube post probably isnt going to work. fyi
@XxHeelsDownxX Seriosuly! My horse doesn't like bits, and he throws his head, but he's manageable.he doesn't listen to hackamores. AT ALL. he even throws his head with hackamores,a nd i've even tried a form of bitless bridle on him and he still doesnt listen. and Seriosuly a lot of people say "Well then your horseisnt very well trained" well, unfortunatly for them there are some horses who are jsut spazzy!
@Quarabs : it could just be a habit that he has learned...have you tried draw reins or a tie down...also bopping them on the poll everytime they toss their head is effective...best done with a cushy nerf bat
That's a terrible way to train a horse to a bit or bitless for that matter. Relying on draw reins, tie downs, or physical force speaks poorly of a rider's horsemanship. You can teach a horse to quit tossing their head by teaching them to accept the bit through pressure and the release of pressure.
" every horse is different. Some like bits others dont...everyone is going to have an opinion, one isnt better than the other, they;re just opinions. and trying to change someone's mind on a youtube post probably isnt going to work. fyi"
I don't think there is one right answer for everyone to the bit vs. bitless question. It varies from horse to horse. I use a bitless bridle on my guy because of his teeth issues. My friend rides her horse in a mechanical hackamore because she found he went better in it than a bit. A bitless is nice for horses with teeth issues, or that are hard to fit because of their mouth or tongue, but if your horse doesn't have any of those issues and you have good hands, I don't see the harm in using a bit.
i think your right, most horses in the uk are traind with a bit and would have to be retrained to use this. it would also be impossible to stop a cantering horse with no pull.
Yeah my horse is an exracehorse and would prob take the piss with one of these lol but i am getting a bitless for £40 for xmas cos' he has had kissing spine and he associates bit with pain so i am going to see what he is like in it but i will never hack with no bit :P... Also i think if these people were so against bits why price the bitless bridles so high. A lot of people see it as a waste of money or just can't afford it... It's just too much lol
They're actually $150, so it's about £95. To be honest, I didn't mind paying that since it made my horse comfortable and he went ten times better in it than he did with a bit. And hey, some people fork out about the same amount for overpriced boots.
Yeah it is still a ridiculous amount of money im going to try my horse in a £30 bitless bridle. I would never spend mor than £50 on a piece of equipment for my horse unless it was a really nice saddle or something. You don't need to fork out that much for a bridle :S
Yeah, it's steep, but after test riding one and finding that it worked well for my horse I was willing to pay it. A Dr. Cook is even more expensive and doesn't work as well.
I've never seen a bitless go for that low a price, what is it?
Its a Libby's leather natural bitless bridle (i think it is called) it is really nice and goes with my tack and considering its just to try him out in it i th0ought get a cheap one if you want friend request me and ill let you know how it works when he comes back into work (he had a back op)
I actually took in a horse that had been riden in this hackamore and it had horrible rub marks on the sides of its face. Note the metal that lies agianst the bars on the sides of the jaw. A flat nosed short shanked hackamore with a LEATHER jaw strap is probably the best for riding bitless. Those rope knoted halters are ok, unless your spokes and you need the control to stop him from hurting you, himself and spectators.
The bridle must not have been fitted correctly, then. I've been riding my horse with this for two years now and there are no rub marks anywhere on his face.
obscuredmelody, you have hit the nail right on the head. i love your last line "if your horse is happier without a bit it's because of the riders lack of skill." how true!
Overall I get your point and this bitless looks better than the others. As a horse trainer though, i dont like seeing videos like this b/c i think the last thing the average horse rider needs to do is ditch their bit for a tend.
I mean look at parelli, I've seen his 'followers' ruin just as many horses as the horse abusers.
I ride bridleless on occasion, and have trained plenty of problem horses, but I disagree that bitless is the catch-all for every horse, especially in problem/retrain horses.
I don't think they are trying to cash in on another product. They are trying to spread the word that you can have a responsive horse with out a bit. A lot of english riders probably think bosals and hack mores are ugly and bulky, because they can be. I think they are just trying to make it look more like an english bridal, so everyone has a choice. I like knowing my horse will listen without a bit in her mouth, she should be listening to my body and legs anyways it's more natural.
The funny thing is, when you are riding properly you already use your hands as a last resource. I ride my horse with my body and legs... our downward transitions are regulated through my seat as too much hands would pull him on the forehand if you aren't careful.
Speaking of which, my horse can be ridden without a bridle at all. So for me, listening isn't a problem. But I prefer the bit, because my horse is soft and requires minimal cuing. He wasn't always that way but he's been refined.
its everyones opoinon and to be honest with you finding some bad pictures of a horse with a bit in doesn't make it crulty, i could find some pictures of a horse miss behaving in a bitless bridal and say 'the birdal is a animal abusive product'
at the end of the day all horses are different and maybe prefer bitless so yeah great your horse works wonders in the birdle but don't just stereotype because of that! im not being funny but it can depend on the rider if you pull to hard on the bit!
I know everyone has there own style and ways to do everything. I do respect that, but these special bit less bridles are nothing but a fad. What do you think side pulls, hackamores, and bosals are?
Honestly, in my opinion these "special" bit less bridles that are being marketed can be just as harsh as a bit. It's all in how soft the rider's hands are. Not to mention timing and feel, if your horse is happier without a bit it's because of the riders lack of skill.
i think bitless bridles are a great idea so dont missunderstand me. how do you get the horse down? normally you do it by gentle making little handmoves but thats with a bit how do you do it without?
haha its annoying how u bite eatchother with bit and no bit, personaly i use a sidepull its like this LG thing. I have nothin against ppl who use bits but u could always try a bitless. ask some1 who got one and borrow it for like 4 times and check how ur horse respond to it, some just thinks its weird to not have anythin in their mouth while some get relived and can concentrate more on what they are working with. But i gotta say that some ppl dont think about how the horse is constructed....
This bitless bridle is simply a hackamore, with another name. the prongs on the circle give you a choice of how much leverage to use to pull the noseband down, the "curb" chain into the lower jaw and the headstall down on the poll. The ones with shanks are more recognizable hackamores. They have been around for millennia. she is simply putting a German twist on it..and cashing in.
I think this video is awsome! the Bitless bridle looks good too. I ride with a bosal & its basically the same. We changed a 20 horse barn from bits to bosals. They are all resposive & happy. I don't really like bits never have. If you don't need them don't use em. I think if you really "think" you need a bit in your horses face learn how to use it lightly. I can't stand watching people ride their horses heads like Heman! If you couldn't comunicate with your human WOULD U WANT A BIT IN YOUR MOUTH
This really shouldn't be about a bit v's bitless... the question should be why do horses run off?, why are some horses labeled 'strong'?,.... If we just listened to our horses all these displaced behaviour(vices/issues) are an indication that they are trying to tell us something....
i ride my horse with and he goes better with one and no i dont saw at the bit or jerk it around he just feels like he understands what i want better if used right theres nothing wrong with a bit!
Trust me, if a horse really wants to run off, there is no bit in the world that can stop him. You're fooling yourself if you think a bit automatically gives you more control.
You have more control with a bit then in a halter... The majority of horses will give to the presure of a bit in their mouth... A halter/bitless bridle won't do shit...
My sister and I started racing our horses when we were kids bareback with a bridle and halter. That is not impressive, anyone should be able to do it with their horse. As far as control goes, the best thing for a horse running out of control is bending. I use bits, but I think it is close minded to say that most horses need bits. And the only reason a horse needs a bit is b/c someone has yet to create a more sensitive mount. (of course there are exceptions)
@nrhareiner Wow, way to respond to a really old comment. :| Besides, I know that, and I wasn't arguing against using a bit for giving more refined commands - just the use of it as a control device. It seems a lot of people put too much confidence in a piece of metal, as it were, and that just makes me disappointed.
I always use a bit, but always happy-mouth snaffles. This is because my pony used to be on a riding school. We had to stop working him on the school because he got athritis :( But i dont have a problem with using a happy mouth snaffle. a lot of people say it depends on the riders hands. if they are harsh they do damage, light and soft they are just guiders. but i do get peoples reasons for not using bits. and i sometimes ride 1 of my aunt's horses in a hackamore. =] cool vid too =]
i dont ride gossip bittless b/c we cnat show in them and she cant have 1 b/c of that...but i use an english hackamore on my pony or a halter on most days unless he is bn really fast then i use a snaffel d ring...
how does it work differently from a normal halter?
i don't think it would help with quite alot of horses. the olympic standard horses who do x-country and show jumping @ the highest level get excited and strong. it would make it extremely hard to get a horse back to u if it suddenly took off and that could be dangerous out on x-country where they are jumping massive solid jumps and need to get it right otherwise the result could be fatal. it would be of any use to a minimal variety of horses.
The fact of the matter is that most horses and riders aren't riding in the Olympics so your point really isn't relevant. Also, you've never used this bridle, you're just assuming it gives less control than a bit. After using it, I don't think so. When it comes down to it a good rider shouldn't need to rely solely on yanking on the bit to control their mount, no matter how strong the horse may be.
i wasn't suggesting that riders need to rely on yanking on the bit to control their mounts, just that some horses get so excited that they are beyond paying attention.
when i said it wouldn't work with some horses i was referring to if it worked no different to a normal halter.
i wasn't putting the bridle down just wondering if it really is better than a normal gentle bit
this is a good i dea to have a bitless bridle but most horse (some) are stuborn and they are not going to do what you what(as in where you weant to go) im saying that you dont really have enough control when useing a bitless bridle! anyway xo bye
I train horses. I never use the bit at the beginning. I pass a rope (1 foot long) on the top of his nose and through the side loops of a normal halter (similar to the Monty roberts Dually halter, he just marketed a device that has been in use around my place for centuries). I then work the horse from the ground. Then I put a bit on. Some horses respond well. Others respond better to the device described. I go on in the training accordingly. its in your hands. they must be featherlight. always.
Have you ridden using this bridle before? I'd assume the answer's no. Unless you've ridden using every single bitless bridle on the market, you can't make a blanket statement like that. My horse is plenty stubborn when he wants to be and it's quite easy to slow and stop him whenever I want with the LG.
This is a type of bittless bridle that I've never come across. My mum uses a NoBit bridle on her horse. I usually ride in a rope halter. Unfortunatly due to some STUPID rules and POny club, i have to ride with a bit in competition etc...
I love how so many people are talking like they know everything when they've never ridden using this bridle. I began using the LG on my horse because he had bone spurs but I like it so much I'm never going to use another bridle again. For those who say you have to pull harder with a BB, that is not true at all with this one, my horse responds to it very well. When they say feel as though they still have a bit, they mean still have enough control. Some riders feel Dr Cook doesn't provide enough.
The point of this bridle is not to allow the rider to have heavy hands at all. It's a matter of the horse's comfort, and when the horse is comfortable, they perform better, which is simple common sense. This bridle is perfect for horses with mouth issues and just about any horse, though I feel it's a matter of rider preference. It does take some time to get used to, though. I agree that it isn't very attractive, but it's so functional that it shouldn't matter.
I agree. I can go from a canter to a walk with my horse in a halter. I doesn't pull because there is nothing in his mouth to hurt him. My 5 year old is ridden in a rope halter. When i use the bit, he opens his mouth and pulls. You don't have to be genius to figure out which he likes better :P
i ride with a bit u need to know how to follow the horse n then its fine horses were not made to be ridden but they have adapted to it n if you no how to sit correctly on a horse they feel fine so plz dont call riding with a bit mean it hurts peoples feelns n its not abusive also whips n crops are not abusive if use them right if u hit them hard yes its bad but if u just tap them its just a courage boost n sometimes people do it to show the horse u r there n its okay so lrn bout it b4 u say somn
...Or you need to try a different type of bitless bridle perhaps. There are many different types out there to try, and not all will suite every horse, but one will.
Try putting a bar of jointed metal in your mouth and getting somebody to yank and pull on it a few times...then you'll realise that bits are NOT good for horses.
Event the riders with good hands still have to pull on the bit, which causes pain in the horse's sensitive mouth.
Why put your horse through that if you don't have to!?
"even riders with good hands still have to pull on the bit"
What kind of BS is that if you ride your horse with soft light hands you do not have to pull on the horse's mouth. Actually you have to pull on most bitless bridles ALOT more to get the message across, because the nose is not as sensitive as the mouth. I've seen bare spots rubbed into horses noses unintentionally by bitless bridles when a horse is acting up or gets spooky.
I never said that you didn't have to pull with a BB...BUT you said yourself that the mouth is more sensitive than the nose, ALOT more sensitive may I add, and therefore my point again...why ride pulling on the MOST SENSITIVE part of the horse's mouth, when you don't have to.
And saying that you have to pull more with a BB is rubbish, as once your horse gets used to wearing one, minimal rein contact is needed. If you're having to haul on it then there is either a problem with fit...
i agree with one of the comments that say that is the UGLIEST bridle(sorry, hackamore) i've EVER seen. Also, search youtube, google, you'll find all KINDS of horses who a)love their riders and b) have a bit. Just because this "Monika the great" has had horses for 30 years, doesn't mean shes special. Alot of horses need a bit anyways. And its usually not the bit, its the rider. If it still feels like theres a bit, its probably going to get treated like theres a bit.
who cares if a horse is using a bitless bridle in high level dessage, a race horse became a champion with only one lung... and i probably wouldnt hate bitless bridles or parelli as much as i do if it wasnt for pple like you preaching to pple like us who dont do what you pple do
1. that is one of the ugliest bridles, hackamores whatever you want to call it, ive eve seen!!
2. its says its lets the rider feel like they still have a bit..
therefore letting them have heavy hands still!
hackamores shouldnt just be there for giving horses a break from the bit, they should also be teaching the riders to have soft, light hands so when they go to put a bit in the horses mouth it doesnt turn feral like my horse did when i first got him!
If I was training a person with terrible hands I wouldn't suggest this or any other hackamore type thing. It's similar to the way a hackamore works, which puts pressure directly on the nose and jaw. I use a hackamore for gymkhana on my thoroughbred and love it (so does she), but I wouldn't let just anyone use it.
People have been riding "bitless" for centuries. Bit, no bit, anybody with heavy hands can hurt a horse's mouth or nose. I ride my jumper in a German hackamore but he also goes well in a Myler combo.
What you use should depend on the horse's needs and what you are in training for- trail riding is different than showjumping! There is nothing inherently evil about bits, and bitless users have no moral high ground, no matter what they think. Anyone proselytizing about it is simply annoying.
sligeah if you cannot touch youre horse on the ground you should never have gotten on her you should have gained trust on the ground first no wonder she needed a severe bit she was terrified im sure of the person in which she did not trust was now like a lion perched upon her back she needed time and respect and it sounds as though she was not given that oppurtunity omg if she was not comfortable with you touching her how do you think she felt when you were latched onto her back
i like them, want to buy one. Im using hackamores for compeating at the moment but i want something lighter and milder. We are not allowed to compeat with rope halter or usual halter .... And YES YOU CAN have contact with it, you can have it with halter too. Unless you are used to pull your horses head into the "right position".. thatkinda ppl should not be allowed to ride at all :D
Neato! This looks very interasting, I use the Dr.Cooks with my horse which works fine with him, but I was wondering if you were transitiong a horse who is used to a bit, would do better with this? Anyway its sooo cool people are getting into the no bits and everything! And for the people who think fasion is more then the health, and well being of your horse... well there aren't enough words to discribe you.
Just because a horse will lead, doesn't mean you can ride with a halter. Case in point, my appy mare. She had been abused and beaten to the point you could lead her, but literally NOT TOUCH HER BODY! She would kick, bite, strike. To ride, she had to have a rather severe bit, and sometimes, a little ACE, just to keep either of us from being hurt. It took 2 years for her to completely trust me, so each situation is different.
WOW, can't believe how many nasty people out there love to hate. Seriously folks, these people aren't saying you HAVE to ride bitless but that it's another option. I ride endurance with my 7 year arab and she loves being able to eat easily as we go along which is good practice for a long distance athlete like an endurance horse. Riding bitless isn't for everyone and certainly isn't for rough or inconsiderate riders but many people (and their horses) enjoy the benefits it brings.
whisk29043 4 months ago
@whisk29043 Well said. I use a bitless as well, although my mare sometimes "forgets" to maintain her balance in it, when that happens I simply go to a simple copper full-cheek snaffle to help her remember. When she starts collecting properly, I simply switch back to the bitless. I find myself using the bit less and less as she improves with the bitless.
Thereisonlythetruth 2 weeks ago
I ride bitless!
XxxCrossCountryyXxx 4 months ago
Bitless riding is not for everyone. Same with shoes. I do have to say that I lived around a horse who, after just a few months of having a bit in his mouth, and we are talking his rider was trained by one of the best in her country so quite hands, no pulling. he refused to accept the bit. She tried bitless and he loved it Then again, I know horses that if they don't have a bit in their mouths there is nothing you can't control them. All that matters is that you and your horse are happy!
Gem7403 5 months ago
cant it break theyre jaws or something?...
horsegirleve2 6 months ago
@horsegirleve2 as far as i Know Curb chains can
XxxCrossCountryyXxx 4 months ago
Why don't i ride bitless?
Because I'm not a redneck petalover. My horse is perfectly fine with his bit, infact, whenver i slide the bit close to his mouth he opens it right away and know's were ready for a ride. That's called good horsemanship. Not this crap. Get your crap right. lawd.
StopHorseSlaughter1 7 months ago
simply, my horse would take off if she didnt have a bit in her mouth.
5Bijou5 7 months ago
@5Bijou5 FINNALY SOMEONE IS A GOOD RIDER LOL!
StopHorseSlaughter1 7 months ago
Why don't I ride bitless? I have no need to. My horse is perfectly happy in her bit, and I can use it without putting so much pressure on their nose and poll, like I would should I ride in a bitless bridle.
guineapiggurl 8 months ago
Yes it it all about the individual horse and rider. Some people do not know enough about the bit they are using in order to use it well. All this is is a glorified hackamore with the shanks or a side pull without the shanks. We've had them in the US for ages. I have a horse that won't listen in a snaffle, throws his head with a hackamore, but is seems happy with a Loose 7 bit. Just a bar with a port and roller and 7 inch shanks. I hardly ever have to get in his mouth with the bit. No fussing.
elf3111 8 months ago
It is unfair to say one is better than the other as they both have advantages and disadvantages. I think the individual needs and comfort of the horse should be considered initially before deciding upon one. Going bitless might make you feel like you are doing something for the best, when in fact the horse can't stand the pressure on its face and vice versa? Lots of things to considor on this topic!
DVH7062001 8 months ago
Bitless put just as much of an uncomfortable sensation on a horses head as a bit. Bits work by pressure on various areas of a horses head and mouth and so does a bitless bridle. A bit is just pressure within the mouth and a bitless bridle is pressure on the more sensitive areas of a horses face, top of the maxilla and poll pressure. BOTH can be severe in the wrong hands and BOTH can be used incorrectly and cause discomfort or injury?
DVH7062001 8 months ago
These are like $125. That's why I don't ride bitless.
babydoll0021 8 months ago
bitless bridle's aren't allowed in some shows, it can actually break a horses jaw...
horsegirleve2 8 months ago
A bit COULD be used in a OK way, but it's very rare... And it's completly possible with any horse, just not any rider. So i'm not saying I'm against bit, but i'm truly for bitless!
Marixxen2 8 months ago
Why do i see all those vids:O with bittless etc... omg Just like tthey said before find some cruel pics of ppl with bits in and its like everyone is cruel when they ride with a bit.... And to be honest putting pressure on the nose isnt good as well srry. Learn how a horse is build and all, and THEN you start with making vids ^_^.
Caus in reality riding a horse is BAD for the horse(not mentally, its the build of his bones. so yeah goodluck with all this BS
MidnightDawnx 8 months ago
HEY !THEY R GOOD BUT THERES ANOTHER PROB !.... KICKING THE HORSE
WUD U LIKE IT ? UR NOT ALOUD 2 KICK UR DOG ITS WELFARE Y R U ALLOWED 2 KICK A HORSE THEN????? THUMBS UP OR REPLY IF U THINK THIS IS CORRECT
2000dinky 9 months ago
@2000dinky
You're really stupid. How would you make the horse go?
GreenBayBreyerFarm 9 months ago
@GreenBayBreyerFarm by nudgin the horse NOT BOOTIN IT ROUND A FEILD OR ARENA !!!!
2000dinky 9 months ago
ohh yeaa its probaly because my horse gollops buck rears up when i had a snaffle so if i was to ride bittless i would die god stop telling me what to do
hebedog89 10 months ago
My horse is 5, and works well in a bit. Im proud of it. :] It is not abuse, and it doesnt hurt them unless the rider has heavy hands, the bit doesnt fit or is the wrong kind for your horse.
RabbitOfDoomyness 11 months ago
Is there any difference between this bridle and a Hackamore except their appearance?As I see, they both put pressure on the horse's nose:S
Liaram66 11 months ago
the best halter/headstall/bridle is the horses mind
RoxieRainsRoobie 1 year ago
Until a week ago i was using a bit, although my horse didn't particularly like the bit. Yes i know it's not cruelty but it is uncomfortable, i know this because a lot of horses find it so uncomfortable they open their mouths so we put a flash on (my horse included) and the first day i changed to a english hackamore he was fab, so happy we even jumped the logs in the forest (FIRST DAY!) i was so pleased considering he is 12 and always had a bit. Oh btw he is a very strong TB ex racer
DeathKitty123456 1 year ago
this is a mechanical hackamore. It is a leverage device. Been riding 46 years with bits, true hackamores, bozals, side pulls, halters, and nothing at all. Have not had good results with mechanical hackamores.
There is no substitute for following hands.
gmwwc 1 year ago
I have had quite a few horses brought to me "hating bits" but the rider couldn't work with them in a bitless bridle. In every case so far, I have been successful by going back to ground communication, and respect, and when I put a bit in their mouth once they understand what is being asked for, they have gone beautifully.
jmdnarri 1 year ago
bit cause pain when rider dont know how to use it and i think that bitless riding is good if you want to check level of reletionship with your horse
KoniaraBelina1234 1 year ago
@KoniaraBelina1234 bitless bridles can also cause pain if a rider dosn't know how to use it.
jmdnarri 1 year ago
i don't go bitless because hunters requires one so...
HeYhEyRoX 1 year ago
It is not the bit or lack their of it is the riders hands. A bit-less bridle can do as much damage as any bit.
nrhareiner 1 year ago
spirit music!
funnyflyingdutchgirl 1 year ago
There are hundreds of bits out there, all of them have different uses for different riding areas. A bit should never hurt the horse. If a rider pulls too hard on the bit, then of course it's gonna hurt and people are gonna label that as bit abuse, when it's not, it's just an idiot rider who needs to learn how to use the bit better. Don't think that all hackamores are gentle either. Some of them, like the mechanical Hackamore, are extremely harsh for the horse, and I'd never use one on my horses
birdiechief67 1 year ago
how mch are theese.?
Cloudruby9 1 year ago
i dont like the idea of pressure on the horses nose
TheBrainLick 1 year ago
@TheBrainLick
well i dont like the idea of pressure on the horses mouth..... id rather have some pressure on the nose.... havent you ever riden in a halter?? if i was a horse i would much rather have some pressure on my face rather than in it....
yani0896 1 year ago
@yani0896 Did you know horses have a vertibrae on the poll? Did u know that horses can dislocate their poll because of this? Well this device puts alot off poll preasure too, which can seriously dislocate it. Then the horse has a 24/7 migrane feeling....id much rather have an hour with a bit than a painfull constant migrane headace.
JazperTheEventer 1 year ago
some shows dont allow you to show without a bit, like all the shows i go to
luckyhunterkid 1 year ago
ok two things 1. us jogging with a tablespoon in out mouths is completely irrelevent because our mouth have teeth all the was back were as horses mouths dont, and a tablespoon is not shaped for our mouths 2. bits aren;t necessarily cruel you just need the proper bit, sometimes bitless bridles can be cruel, expecially ones that apply pressure to the poll through leverage. Im not saying that going bitless isn't a good think im just saying all bits aren;t cruel
1horse1crazy1 1 year ago
ik zou ook liver bitloos rijden, maar dat kan gewoon niet bij alle paarden, en vooral niet bij mijn paarden, die zijn veel te druk en moeilijk, om zo zonder bit te rijden, en ik snap dat het pijn kan doen, maar als je tog gewoon het juiste bit uitzoekt, en niet snukt of zulke dingen in zijn mond doet is dat tog ook goed?
Pukkyluf 1 year ago
@Pukkyluf Ben ik mee eens hoor. Ik zou het niet eens durven. Wij rijden aangespannen en zonder bit zou dat levensgevaarlijk zijn. Erg leuk bitloos, vooral voor iemand die super gespecialiseerd is, maar je zou het de grootste ongelukken krijgen als iedereen ineens bitloos zou rijden. Daarbij weet ik dat vele ´bitloze bitten´ zo´n druk uitoefenen op het neusbeen dat dat kan breken. Gewoon een goed en niet te scherp bit gebruiken en normaal doen dan kan het echt geen kwaad.
Saartje05 1 year ago
if you ride with a mechanichal hackmore und you pull really, really hard you can break the horses nose. if you ride with a pelham bit and you pull hard you can break the horses jaw-bone
avrillavigne1981 1 year ago
@avrillavigne1981 That´s what I was just writing in Dutch.
Saartje05 1 year ago
In the wrong hands a bitless bridle, especially one with leverage, ie shanks, is still an instrument of torture - just of the face rather than the mouth. It isn't automatically kinder than a bit, just different. I'm not against them at all, I just hate seeing horses being pulled about in them by riders who think it's not hurting the horse when it is. If you can't stop a horse without inflicting pain on it, s/he needs re-schooling...
bobzcobz 1 year ago
i personally HATE bits.and affter a year or to the horse learns that they can become 'under the bit'( to drop the bit low in the mouth to prevent pressure) and the how well does it work? bitless is one of the best ways to train a young horse.
midnigt2 1 year ago
@midnigt2 You can teach a horse to evade just as well in a bitless bridle as you can using a bit, and you can teach them to go well in either - assuming the tack is suitable and fits, it's a question of the rider's skill, not the type of equipment...
bobzcobz 1 year ago
Same principal as a hackamore.
I like the wagon wheel design.
Accomodates the Nose band, curb strap, and poll.
Alright.
I feel the best way to teach to give to pressure no matter the device is when they are under 2years of age. An age that they accept instead of resist.
You end up with a much easier training ability when they can carry you.
They don't forget their very first experience.
semtech30 1 year ago
great idea but i think it would sute some horses and riders but not nesesarly other there are some out there that just don't like the pressures exurted by the bitless action and would react badly to it. definlty one peac of equipment that you need to read the instructions with and i'm not that brave enough to try it on any of the horses that i have ever sat on!!!!!
miniequine 1 year ago
nice inovation!!!
MalfoyDrago 1 year ago
i like this video i want to ride with a lg bridle and the bit if you pull so hard on the bit for the horse to stop lg bridle dont have a bit that woud be easy to ride with one
alyssahorsejohnson 1 year ago
thats very nice and beautiful, but have you ever tried to stop racing horses with that thing? impossible i think. i like this bitless whatever but for me its hard to imagine to use that on my horse... o.O
hazug 1 year ago
Comment removed
hazug 1 year ago
a lot of high level dressage competitions require yout o use a double bridle with the two bits so do a lot of western competitions they require you to use a bit
klsunsnowluck 1 year ago
i do like bitless bridles more than briddles with bits but if u hav a realy bad miss behaving horse u need a bit
07bstatham 1 year ago
@07bstatham not true.. I train problem horses..and most of the problems are fixed with a bitless.. My mare used to be very aggressive , bolted, bucked, and etc.. all fixed with a bitless.. its just poor reasoning for a bit.. my new boy is now being transferred over to a bitless.. there is no reason for a bit. unless your scared to ride without one.
SassyMustang1980 1 year ago
okay 1- u cant bridal a horse correctly with one
2- what do you do to slow it down?
3- what do you do if its out of control
GaelicsRose 1 year ago
The best riders in the world, with the best horses, sharing the best relationships are the ones who focus on CORRECT SCHOOLING, using the phylosophies of classical dressage. I am all for a horse's comfort, and have a Dr Cook bitless myself, as well as bitted bridles. In my experience, it is the schooling of the horse and the hand, heart and physical amptitude of the rider that makes all the difference!
takuradream 1 year ago
Not that I'm an expert in high level dressage, but it looks to me like the dressage stallion was dropping his back and not through at all from back to front. I have no doubts that this device works well, but maybe not for dressage... but I definitely would like to give it a try. I love bitless bridles, and this one looks like a good one. I believe in saving the mouth! ;)
matrixmare 2 years ago
Thats ugly , and my horse feeling well with a bit ...
superprinsess90 2 years ago 2
it depends on how you use the bitless bridle and a bridle with a bit. For a kind, light handed rider riding bitless brings the same comfort to a horse as the bit does. (it does depend on the bit and how it is used) The bitless bridles or a rope halter, buts pressure on the horses poll, some horses HATE this, others prefer it to the metal bar in the mouth. I ride in a vary - with a bit, without a bit, without any tack or string or halter. It completly depends on the horse you have and the rider.
TwoCrazyPonies 2 years ago 2
riding without a bit seems much easier the horse i ride has a fit when it comes to bridling <- if thats how you spell it aha
horsechick100 2 years ago
ok. you have TRUELY inspired me. I was look ing for ways that i could use bridles without bits and SURELY this is the one! I also love the style and everything. I too is sick of looking at bit problems and accidents with them. so thank you for posting this video, rideforpleasure!
~bassman252525
bassman252525 2 years ago
My horses that I ride, ride bitless and my GOODNESS it act like there is a bit in their mouth! By that, I mean that they are sensitive and listen. I don't like bits.
MemoryofMe21 2 years ago
you can also try a hackamore?
that has no bit and therys loads of differnt styles/types ect. all without the bit
ZenyJay1 2 years ago
well... idont ride bitless because my horse will take off on me! not all horses do good bitless!
XxHeelsDownxX 2 years ago
well that may happen but it is the fact that a bit is not as good for horses as a bitless and your horse may just have a hard mouth
lightslily101 2 years ago
yeah true! if i could! i would us a hackmore!
XxHeelsDownxX 2 years ago
Thats not true, I have a mare that when I dont have a bit in her mouth she is harder than hell to control, but with a bit I can ride her with 1 finger and do anything with her. And she loves her bit!
kelliefan1017 2 years ago
LOVES HER BIT?!! are you out of you f***king mind? how can you possibly think that? she has been BROKEN to a bit so how can she no any different?! what do you expect? she cant tell you how helpless she feels and when shes in pain or your pulling too hard and hurting her?!
All you need is a lil understanding and patience to teach her how to respond WITHOUT using a bit.
It seems so unfair that horses have to take the blame just because they have no voice.
Leannayoung22 2 years ago
You know what YA she does LOVE her bit! And how would YOU know what she does and does not like! You have never even seen or been around my mare! Or ever Ridden her! And so i think I would know what she likes and what she doesnt! And if you have a bond wit your horse you should be able to tell what they like or dont. They dont need a voice. And she will let me know if im hurting her.
kelliefan1017 2 years ago
@kelliefan1017 I agree with you. My horse likes her bit now. I changed it because i got tired of her throwing her head, so i figured i would try some thing different.
BarrelRacer955 2 years ago
@Leannayoung22 : every horse is different. Some like bits others dont...everyone is going to have an opinion, one isnt better than the other, they;re just opinions. and trying to change someone's mind on a youtube post probably isnt going to work. fyi
pinkfeathers2006 2 years ago
@XxHeelsDownxX Seriosuly! My horse doesn't like bits, and he throws his head, but he's manageable.he doesn't listen to hackamores. AT ALL. he even throws his head with hackamores,a nd i've even tried a form of bitless bridle on him and he still doesnt listen. and Seriosuly a lot of people say "Well then your horseisnt very well trained" well, unfortunatly for them there are some horses who are jsut spazzy!
Quarabs 2 years ago
@Quarabs im not saying every horse likes bite? :\
XxHeelsDownxX 2 years ago
@Quarabs : it could just be a habit that he has learned...have you tried draw reins or a tie down...also bopping them on the poll everytime they toss their head is effective...best done with a cushy nerf bat
pinkfeathers2006 2 years ago
@pinkfeathers2006
That's a terrible way to train a horse to a bit or bitless for that matter. Relying on draw reins, tie downs, or physical force speaks poorly of a rider's horsemanship. You can teach a horse to quit tossing their head by teaching them to accept the bit through pressure and the release of pressure.
obscuredmelody 2 years ago
Comment removed
pinkfeathers2006 2 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
@ obscuremelody:
im going to quote myself...
" every horse is different. Some like bits others dont...everyone is going to have an opinion, one isnt better than the other, they;re just opinions. and trying to change someone's mind on a youtube post probably isnt going to work. fyi"
pinkfeathers2006 2 years ago
What's the difference between this kind of bridle and a hackamore?It seems to me that both makes pressure on the horse's nose.:S
Liaram66 2 years ago
i´m from germany, cologne=köln (koeln)
Pylamos 2 years ago
The horses do look a lot happier
bballg123 2 years ago
I don't think there is one right answer for everyone to the bit vs. bitless question. It varies from horse to horse. I use a bitless bridle on my guy because of his teeth issues. My friend rides her horse in a mechanical hackamore because she found he went better in it than a bit. A bitless is nice for horses with teeth issues, or that are hard to fit because of their mouth or tongue, but if your horse doesn't have any of those issues and you have good hands, I don't see the harm in using a bit.
massasharkk 2 years ago
Maybe its better for some horses to ride bitless but you would have to be MAD to buy one of these LG bridles when they are £150!!!
My Bit AND bridle only cost £25! And my horse go's very happily in it :)
DeathKitty123456 2 years ago 2
i think your right, most horses in the uk are traind with a bit and would have to be retrained to use this. it would also be impossible to stop a cantering horse with no pull.
ponyzani 2 years ago
Yeah my horse is an exracehorse and would prob take the piss with one of these lol but i am getting a bitless for £40 for xmas cos' he has had kissing spine and he associates bit with pain so i am going to see what he is like in it but i will never hack with no bit :P... Also i think if these people were so against bits why price the bitless bridles so high. A lot of people see it as a waste of money or just can't afford it... It's just too much lol
DeathKitty123456 2 years ago
They're actually $150, so it's about £95. To be honest, I didn't mind paying that since it made my horse comfortable and he went ten times better in it than he did with a bit. And hey, some people fork out about the same amount for overpriced boots.
massasharkk 2 years ago
Yeah it is still a ridiculous amount of money im going to try my horse in a £30 bitless bridle. I would never spend mor than £50 on a piece of equipment for my horse unless it was a really nice saddle or something. You don't need to fork out that much for a bridle :S
DeathKitty123456 2 years ago
Yeah, it's steep, but after test riding one and finding that it worked well for my horse I was willing to pay it. A Dr. Cook is even more expensive and doesn't work as well.
I've never seen a bitless go for that low a price, what is it?
massasharkk 2 years ago
Its a Libby's leather natural bitless bridle (i think it is called) it is really nice and goes with my tack and considering its just to try him out in it i th0ought get a cheap one if you want friend request me and ill let you know how it works when he comes back into work (he had a back op)
DeathKitty123456 2 years ago
The LG-Bridle costs 98€ thats ca. 90 uk pounds
LJ0981 2 years ago
I actually took in a horse that had been riden in this hackamore and it had horrible rub marks on the sides of its face. Note the metal that lies agianst the bars on the sides of the jaw. A flat nosed short shanked hackamore with a LEATHER jaw strap is probably the best for riding bitless. Those rope knoted halters are ok, unless your spokes and you need the control to stop him from hurting you, himself and spectators.
thyri43 2 years ago
The bridle must not have been fitted correctly, then. I've been riding my horse with this for two years now and there are no rub marks anywhere on his face.
massasharkk 2 years ago
obscuredmelody, you have hit the nail right on the head. i love your last line "if your horse is happier without a bit it's because of the riders lack of skill." how true!
loraleypike 2 years ago
Overall I get your point and this bitless looks better than the others. As a horse trainer though, i dont like seeing videos like this b/c i think the last thing the average horse rider needs to do is ditch their bit for a tend.
I mean look at parelli, I've seen his 'followers' ruin just as many horses as the horse abusers.
I ride bridleless on occasion, and have trained plenty of problem horses, but I disagree that bitless is the catch-all for every horse, especially in problem/retrain horses.
gryphonkeen 2 years ago
I like the design of this bitless bridle. The wagon wheel ring gives it a "bad ass" effect. =P
Kedgirl 2 years ago
I don't think they are trying to cash in on another product. They are trying to spread the word that you can have a responsive horse with out a bit. A lot of english riders probably think bosals and hack mores are ugly and bulky, because they can be. I think they are just trying to make it look more like an english bridal, so everyone has a choice. I like knowing my horse will listen without a bit in her mouth, she should be listening to my body and legs anyways it's more natural.
biffybilliamson 2 years ago 2
The funny thing is, when you are riding properly you already use your hands as a last resource. I ride my horse with my body and legs... our downward transitions are regulated through my seat as too much hands would pull him on the forehand if you aren't careful.
Speaking of which, my horse can be ridden without a bridle at all. So for me, listening isn't a problem. But I prefer the bit, because my horse is soft and requires minimal cuing. He wasn't always that way but he's been refined.
obscuredmelody 2 years ago
its everyones opoinon and to be honest with you finding some bad pictures of a horse with a bit in doesn't make it crulty, i could find some pictures of a horse miss behaving in a bitless bridal and say 'the birdal is a animal abusive product'
at the end of the day all horses are different and maybe prefer bitless so yeah great your horse works wonders in the birdle but don't just stereotype because of that! im not being funny but it can depend on the rider if you pull to hard on the bit!
LittleMissBecks 2 years ago 9
@LittleMissBecks Thank you! This sums up everything!
JazperTheEventer 1 year ago
I know everyone has there own style and ways to do everything. I do respect that, but these special bit less bridles are nothing but a fad. What do you think side pulls, hackamores, and bosals are?
Honestly, in my opinion these "special" bit less bridles that are being marketed can be just as harsh as a bit. It's all in how soft the rider's hands are. Not to mention timing and feel, if your horse is happier without a bit it's because of the riders lack of skill.
obscuredmelody 2 years ago
i think bitless bridles are a great idea so dont missunderstand me. how do you get the horse down? normally you do it by gentle making little handmoves but thats with a bit how do you do it without?
Loleifos 2 years ago 2
haha its annoying how u bite eatchother with bit and no bit, personaly i use a sidepull its like this LG thing. I have nothin against ppl who use bits but u could always try a bitless. ask some1 who got one and borrow it for like 4 times and check how ur horse respond to it, some just thinks its weird to not have anythin in their mouth while some get relived and can concentrate more on what they are working with. But i gotta say that some ppl dont think about how the horse is constructed....
Pffmah 2 years ago
This bitless bridle is simply a hackamore, with another name. the prongs on the circle give you a choice of how much leverage to use to pull the noseband down, the "curb" chain into the lower jaw and the headstall down on the poll. The ones with shanks are more recognizable hackamores. They have been around for millennia. she is simply putting a German twist on it..and cashing in.
Delaucroix 2 years ago 6
I think this video is awsome! the Bitless bridle looks good too. I ride with a bosal & its basically the same. We changed a 20 horse barn from bits to bosals. They are all resposive & happy. I don't really like bits never have. If you don't need them don't use em. I think if you really "think" you need a bit in your horses face learn how to use it lightly. I can't stand watching people ride their horses heads like Heman! If you couldn't comunicate with your human WOULD U WANT A BIT IN YOUR MOUTH
biffybilliamson 3 years ago 2
its not cruel if you use it the right way!
maryborie 3 years ago
its not cruel....... i have 12 horses i can ride bitless but y ride bitless if it doesnt mean any harm
kellyz22 3 years ago
This really shouldn't be about a bit v's bitless... the question should be why do horses run off?, why are some horses labeled 'strong'?,.... If we just listened to our horses all these displaced behaviour(vices/issues) are an indication that they are trying to tell us something....
savvygirl19 3 years ago 4
i ride my horse with and he goes better with one and no i dont saw at the bit or jerk it around he just feels like he understands what i want better if used right theres nothing wrong with a bit!
wolfy4132 3 years ago
Doesn't look like there is any control there in case the horse was to spoke or run away...
PiggyDog89 3 years ago
Trust me, if a horse really wants to run off, there is no bit in the world that can stop him. You're fooling yourself if you think a bit automatically gives you more control.
ZeldaNox 3 years ago 16
You have more control with a bit then in a halter... The majority of horses will give to the presure of a bit in their mouth... A halter/bitless bridle won't do shit...
PiggyDog89 3 years ago
actually, it DOES.
xBarrelRacerx3 3 years ago
My sister and I started racing our horses when we were kids bareback with a bridle and halter. That is not impressive, anyone should be able to do it with their horse. As far as control goes, the best thing for a horse running out of control is bending. I use bits, but I think it is close minded to say that most horses need bits. And the only reason a horse needs a bit is b/c someone has yet to create a more sensitive mount. (of course there are exceptions)
msityhorse2001 3 years ago 2
it does if your horse LOVES and TRUSTS u actualy
elliexena 3 years ago
Sorry, my horses do both and i can ride them with anything. I choose not to coddle mine. thks
xBarrelRacerx3 3 years ago
wel i choose 2 do wht mi horse likes ok
nd i DO have control
i hav adif bitles thn this
elliexena 3 years ago
...What did you say? I don't think ANYONE understood this.
Yrior 2 years ago
what coment?
elliexena 2 years ago
@ZeldaNox
Bits are not about control they are about refinement.
nrhareiner 1 year ago
@nrhareiner Wow, way to respond to a really old comment. :| Besides, I know that, and I wasn't arguing against using a bit for giving more refined commands - just the use of it as a control device. It seems a lot of people put too much confidence in a piece of metal, as it were, and that just makes me disappointed.
ZeldaNox 1 year ago
I always use a bit, but always happy-mouth snaffles. This is because my pony used to be on a riding school. We had to stop working him on the school because he got athritis :( But i dont have a problem with using a happy mouth snaffle. a lot of people say it depends on the riders hands. if they are harsh they do damage, light and soft they are just guiders. but i do get peoples reasons for not using bits. and i sometimes ride 1 of my aunt's horses in a hackamore. =] cool vid too =]
HevahhOx 3 years ago
its justlike a hackamore !
HorseQueen08 3 years ago
i dont ride gossip bittless b/c we cnat show in them and she cant have 1 b/c of that...but i use an english hackamore on my pony or a halter on most days unless he is bn really fast then i use a snaffel d ring...
finallyGOSSIP 3 years ago
how does it work differently from a normal halter?
i don't think it would help with quite alot of horses. the olympic standard horses who do x-country and show jumping @ the highest level get excited and strong. it would make it extremely hard to get a horse back to u if it suddenly took off and that could be dangerous out on x-country where they are jumping massive solid jumps and need to get it right otherwise the result could be fatal. it would be of any use to a minimal variety of horses.
loraleypike 3 years ago
I couldn't say, I've never ridden with a halter.
The fact of the matter is that most horses and riders aren't riding in the Olympics so your point really isn't relevant. Also, you've never used this bridle, you're just assuming it gives less control than a bit. After using it, I don't think so. When it comes down to it a good rider shouldn't need to rely solely on yanking on the bit to control their mount, no matter how strong the horse may be.
ezekielvamp 3 years ago
i wasn't suggesting that riders need to rely on yanking on the bit to control their mounts, just that some horses get so excited that they are beyond paying attention.
when i said it wouldn't work with some horses i was referring to if it worked no different to a normal halter.
i wasn't putting the bridle down just wondering if it really is better than a normal gentle bit
loraleypike 3 years ago
Strong horses generally need something more. A horse i ride rides good in a hack, but when i do barrels we use a combination bit.
xBarrelRacerx3 3 years ago
I suggest you look at dr cook bitless bridles...a girl is showjumping in italy with one
FyesanFan 3 years ago
could you please give me the link. i can't find it
loraleypike 3 years ago
i agree.
xBarrelRacerx3 3 years ago
this is a good i dea to have a bitless bridle but most horse (some) are stuborn and they are not going to do what you what(as in where you weant to go) im saying that you dont really have enough control when useing a bitless bridle! anyway xo bye
kattykitty196 3 years ago
I train horses. I never use the bit at the beginning. I pass a rope (1 foot long) on the top of his nose and through the side loops of a normal halter (similar to the Monty roberts Dually halter, he just marketed a device that has been in use around my place for centuries). I then work the horse from the ground. Then I put a bit on. Some horses respond well. Others respond better to the device described. I go on in the training accordingly. its in your hands. they must be featherlight. always.
tallyfolly 3 years ago
Have you ridden using this bridle before? I'd assume the answer's no. Unless you've ridden using every single bitless bridle on the market, you can't make a blanket statement like that. My horse is plenty stubborn when he wants to be and it's quite easy to slow and stop him whenever I want with the LG.
ezekielvamp 3 years ago 2
This is a type of bittless bridle that I've never come across. My mum uses a NoBit bridle on her horse. I usually ride in a rope halter. Unfortunatly due to some STUPID rules and POny club, i have to ride with a bit in competition etc...
Ntrlhrsgrl 3 years ago
I love how so many people are talking like they know everything when they've never ridden using this bridle. I began using the LG on my horse because he had bone spurs but I like it so much I'm never going to use another bridle again. For those who say you have to pull harder with a BB, that is not true at all with this one, my horse responds to it very well. When they say feel as though they still have a bit, they mean still have enough control. Some riders feel Dr Cook doesn't provide enough.
ezekielvamp 3 years ago
The point of this bridle is not to allow the rider to have heavy hands at all. It's a matter of the horse's comfort, and when the horse is comfortable, they perform better, which is simple common sense. This bridle is perfect for horses with mouth issues and just about any horse, though I feel it's a matter of rider preference. It does take some time to get used to, though. I agree that it isn't very attractive, but it's so functional that it shouldn't matter.
ezekielvamp 3 years ago
I agree. I can go from a canter to a walk with my horse in a halter. I doesn't pull because there is nothing in his mouth to hurt him. My 5 year old is ridden in a rope halter. When i use the bit, he opens his mouth and pulls. You don't have to be genius to figure out which he likes better :P
Ntrlhrsgrl 3 years ago
Different horses need different things
xBarrelRacerx3 3 years ago
i ride with a bit u need to know how to follow the horse n then its fine horses were not made to be ridden but they have adapted to it n if you no how to sit correctly on a horse they feel fine so plz dont call riding with a bit mean it hurts peoples feelns n its not abusive also whips n crops are not abusive if use them right if u hit them hard yes its bad but if u just tap them its just a courage boost n sometimes people do it to show the horse u r there n its okay so lrn bout it b4 u say somn
xoHorsesAreMyLifexo 3 years ago
I ride in a D-Ring, and I only pull on my horse, when he's being a brat, and acting crazy (He's an arab)
gottoride2 3 years ago
...Or you need to try a different type of bitless bridle perhaps. There are many different types out there to try, and not all will suite every horse, but one will.
horsey1992devon 3 years ago
This is a good video, that shows people who are able to keep their frustrations away from the horse, as they should be.
Why I don't ride bitless?
I ride with a bit, because I have a horse who needs very little corrections to do what I ask her too. And because I can control it. I use spurs too.
It's all about how you use it.
Amannoo 3 years ago
Bitted or bitless, it's the hands that hold the reins that make it severe or not.
hm0780 3 years ago
Try putting a bar of jointed metal in your mouth and getting somebody to yank and pull on it a few times...then you'll realise that bits are NOT good for horses.
Event the riders with good hands still have to pull on the bit, which causes pain in the horse's sensitive mouth.
Why put your horse through that if you don't have to!?
Bitless is the way forward. :)
horsey1992devon 3 years ago
"even riders with good hands still have to pull on the bit"
What kind of BS is that if you ride your horse with soft light hands you do not have to pull on the horse's mouth. Actually you have to pull on most bitless bridles ALOT more to get the message across, because the nose is not as sensitive as the mouth. I've seen bare spots rubbed into horses noses unintentionally by bitless bridles when a horse is acting up or gets spooky.
TaylorMadePony 3 years ago
I never said that you didn't have to pull with a BB...BUT you said yourself that the mouth is more sensitive than the nose, ALOT more sensitive may I add, and therefore my point again...why ride pulling on the MOST SENSITIVE part of the horse's mouth, when you don't have to.
And saying that you have to pull more with a BB is rubbish, as once your horse gets used to wearing one, minimal rein contact is needed. If you're having to haul on it then there is either a problem with fit...
horsey1992devon 3 years ago
i agree with one of the comments that say that is the UGLIEST bridle(sorry, hackamore) i've EVER seen. Also, search youtube, google, you'll find all KINDS of horses who a)love their riders and b) have a bit. Just because this "Monika the great" has had horses for 30 years, doesn't mean shes special. Alot of horses need a bit anyways. And its usually not the bit, its the rider. If it still feels like theres a bit, its probably going to get treated like theres a bit.
horseluver171717 3 years ago
"If it still feels like theres a bit, its probably going to get treated like theres a bit."
I'm sorry, but what!?
There is a big difference between having a metal bar in your mouth and not having a metal bar in your mouth!
horsey1992devon 3 years ago
yah i think it is an okay idea, but if a bit is used correctly, it doesn't hurt the horse. but it can, under some circumstances.
SillyBella3 3 years ago
who cares if a horse is using a bitless bridle in high level dessage, a race horse became a champion with only one lung... and i probably wouldnt hate bitless bridles or parelli as much as i do if it wasnt for pple like you preaching to pple like us who dont do what you pple do
shahrzad1893 3 years ago
i totally agree with you have you SEEN rusticchasers parelli video???? she quotes "anyone who has ever hit a horse has abused a horse" BULLSHIT!!!!!
horseluver171717 3 years ago
that video pissed me off so much and made me hate parelli even more
shahrzad1893 3 years ago
you can say that again.
horseluver171717 3 years ago
It's not Parelli.
horsey1992devon 3 years ago
yea i agree rusticchasers is not parelli, its her little weird version of it.
HunterJumperGirl40 3 years ago
id rather have a piece of steel in my mouth than a piece of steel digging into my cheek
2thourobred2 3 years ago
AGREED!
horseluver171717 3 years ago
Hey that's great you ride bitless! But I have to say, I prefer the Dr Cook cross-over bitless bridle.
SpottyPony 3 years ago
i have a couple of tings to say
1. that is one of the ugliest bridles, hackamores whatever you want to call it, ive eve seen!!
2. its says its lets the rider feel like they still have a bit..
therefore letting them have heavy hands still!
hackamores shouldnt just be there for giving horses a break from the bit, they should also be teaching the riders to have soft, light hands so when they go to put a bit in the horses mouth it doesnt turn feral like my horse did when i first got him!
mandaleacalico 3 years ago
If I was training a person with terrible hands I wouldn't suggest this or any other hackamore type thing. It's similar to the way a hackamore works, which puts pressure directly on the nose and jaw. I use a hackamore for gymkhana on my thoroughbred and love it (so does she), but I wouldn't let just anyone use it.
snapperpappers 3 years ago
People have been riding "bitless" for centuries. Bit, no bit, anybody with heavy hands can hurt a horse's mouth or nose. I ride my jumper in a German hackamore but he also goes well in a Myler combo.
What you use should depend on the horse's needs and what you are in training for- trail riding is different than showjumping! There is nothing inherently evil about bits, and bitless users have no moral high ground, no matter what they think. Anyone proselytizing about it is simply annoying.
baaiegooed 3 years ago
sligeah if you cannot touch youre horse on the ground you should never have gotten on her you should have gained trust on the ground first no wonder she needed a severe bit she was terrified im sure of the person in which she did not trust was now like a lion perched upon her back she needed time and respect and it sounds as though she was not given that oppurtunity omg if she was not comfortable with you touching her how do you think she felt when you were latched onto her back
coby4201 3 years ago
they may not have a bit but, to stop the horse they put pressure on the nose and cuts of air flow
AusStocHorses 3 years ago
i dont like it, there ugly. nad some horses HAVE to have a bit, and i dont care if shes had horses for 30 yrs!
buffalogirl95 3 years ago
i like them, want to buy one. Im using hackamores for compeating at the moment but i want something lighter and milder. We are not allowed to compeat with rope halter or usual halter .... And YES YOU CAN have contact with it, you can have it with halter too. Unless you are used to pull your horses head into the "right position".. thatkinda ppl should not be allowed to ride at all :D
Roki1998 3 years ago
i perfer a halter and lead rope for riding...
alyssaloveanselmi494 3 years ago
Neato! This looks very interasting, I use the Dr.Cooks with my horse which works fine with him, but I was wondering if you were transitiong a horse who is used to a bit, would do better with this? Anyway its sooo cool people are getting into the no bits and everything! And for the people who think fasion is more then the health, and well being of your horse... well there aren't enough words to discribe you.
ShannyPants2 4 years ago
If I wanted a mechanical hackamore I would buy a normal, non ugly, better working mechanical hackamore.
gfhhst 4 years ago
Rattle rattle rattle.
Seems like a bit would be more comfortable than that thing rattling on your face.
I have nothing against bitless riding however there are better bitless bridles out there.
gfhhst 4 years ago
If I wanted a mechanical hackamore I would buy one. I don't need some ugly bridle on my horse's head.
There is no way to replace the feel of a bit without a bit.
None of the riders seem to be capable of maintaining contact either.
gfhhst 4 years ago
Just because a horse will lead, doesn't mean you can ride with a halter. Case in point, my appy mare. She had been abused and beaten to the point you could lead her, but literally NOT TOUCH HER BODY! She would kick, bite, strike. To ride, she had to have a rather severe bit, and sometimes, a little ACE, just to keep either of us from being hurt. It took 2 years for her to completely trust me, so each situation is different.
Sligeah 4 years ago
Can you ride on contact with it, like for dressage?
they look realy nice, bTW
rooktoking92 4 years ago
what's wrong with a bit...?
sweet0temptation 4 years ago
nothing.
HunterJumperGirl40 3 years ago