When to Use a Bitless Bridle

Bitless horse bridles, also called sidepull bridles or training bridles, are perfect bridles for young horses who are just beginning training or horses who have sensitive mouths. Bits are not always necessary, especially for horses who are extremely responsive. If you are riding a green horse for the first time, have a young rider who is heavy-handed, or have a very responsive horse a bitless bridle could be perfect for you.

Bitless horse bridles work by using pressure from the rider pulling the reins to communicate with the horse. This is similar to how bitted bridles work, except bitless bridles use only pressure of the pull to encourage the horse. This method can put pressure on the side of the horse's face or chin depending on the style of the bitless bridle. The best bitless bridles help communicate with the horse in a gentler manner than bitted bridles.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bitless Bridles

What is a bitless bridle?

A bitless bridle is a bridle without a bit that uses pressure from the reins to enhance communication between horse and rider.

Are bitless bridles better?

A bitless bridle is not always better. Some horses would do very well in a bitless bridle, while others would not. Horses that are very green or very responsive are likely to do well in a bitless bridle. However, if you have a horse who ignores the bit and is hard to control, a bitless bridle might make him harder to slow down. Bitless Horse bridles are not a good option for every horse.

A training bridle would also be beneficial for young riders who may yank on the horse's mouth while they ride. This kind of bridle will minimize the discomfort of the horse if the rider pulls on their mouth while they are learning.

Do horses like bitless bridles?

It depends on the horse. Some like bitless bridles, others do not. As said previously, they are very good for sensitive and green horses.

How to fit a bitless bridle?

Bitless bridles should fit so that two fingers can be fit between the horse and every strap on the bridle. When measuring your horse for its size make sure to follow the instructions on the product page.

Can all horses be ridden bitless?

Theoretically any horse could be ridden bitless. However, horses that are very strong and don’t listen to your hands are more likely to misbehave when riding without a bit because your commands will be weaker. Bitless bridles are not suitable for every horse, but a great many horses also love bitless bridles.