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Choosing the Best Loose Ring Snaffle Bit
Loose ring snaffle bits are one of the most popular types of horse bits across many disciplines. Loose ring snaffles get their name from the metal ring at the cheeks that allows the mouthpiece to move freely all the way around the ring, rather than being in a fixed position like most other bit types.
When a horse wears a loose ring snaffle bit they have the ability to adjust the bit in their mouth to a position most comfortable for them. This gives a horse more freedom on their tongue. For a young horse, using a loose ring snaffle can be a great way for them to learn to accept having a bit in their mouth and giving in to pressure without being overwhelmed. Loose ring snaffle bits come with many different types of mouthpiece materials like a copper inlay or copper rollers, plastic, Sensogan, and stainless steel. You can also find a variety of mouthpiece styles that each have their own functionality and purpose.
Like any bit, finding the right loose ring snaffle bit can help you feel more confident that you are using a great bit that is designed not only to perform well for your horse, but to be comfortable and long lasting.
Frequently Asked Questions About Loose Ringe Snaffle Bits
What is a loose ring snaffle used for?
Loose ring snaffle bits are often used for horses that are sensitive to having a bit in their mouth and like the ability to position the big where they feel most comfortable due to the flexibility of the mouthpiece. With the rings in a constantly moving position, the bit can move with the horse which also prevents them from taking ahold of the bit and hanging in your hands.
Do loose ring snaffles pinch?
Some loose ring snaffle bits can pinch the very corners of a horse’s mouth if the rings fit too closely to the lips of a horse’s mouth. You can use bit guards which are thin pieces of soft rubber, adding a layer of protection between the rings and your horse’s lips.
How do you use a loose ring snaffle bit?
The best way to use a loose ring snaffle bit is to make sure you have the correct size bit for your horse’s mouth and a mouthpiece style that matches the problem you are trying to improve or correct without being too corrective. The mouthpiece of a loose ring snaffle bit lays across the horse’s tongue, applying pressure to their tongue and lips, without being in a fixed position. When you pull on one side of the reins, you will be applying pressure to that side of the horse’s mouth and tongue.
Should you size up a loose ring snaffle?
When using a loose ring snaffle bit it is recommended to move up in size by ¼” compared to the size used with a fixed cheek style bit, or if going down from a loose ring snaffle to a fixed bit, you would size down slightly.
Want to learn more about snaffle bits? Check out Horse Bits 101: What is a Snaffle Bit?