Bitting Question - Trail vs Dressage Usage

["Tracey" <tracey@tbt.co.za>]

>
Ruth wrote:

Nonetheless, I am fearful he is becoming confused with the switching -
signals, feel/pressure, etc. - of bits. How does one switch bits - back and
forth - between trail and dressage work, without confusing one's horse? Or
do they? All comments are most welcome!>


Hi, Ruth,


I can't talk for endurance (sorry, Steph) but it's not uncommon to switch a
horse between different bits for jumping and dressage.  I try to stick with
a double jointed mouth piece, to avoid the nutcracker action, but with a
horse who is really strong I will ocasionally slap him in an Elevator bit,
especially for SJ, where control between fences is paramount.


Just be aware of how your horse responds to the "lever" action of a curb
bit, as they can tend to "back off" of them.  You need a very light hand and
a whole lot of leg.


Personally, I like the KK snaffles, as they offer some play for horses who
can be a bit heavy in the hand.  The copy KK has the same action as those
expensive German models, for a lot less money.


If you don't want to put him in a curb / gag bit, you could try the
Waterford snaffle for the trails.  They give more control, but are illegal
for dressage so you must be aware that you will be altering the mouthpiece
when you put him back in the French for dressage, which is something I try
to avoid.


Best of luck,


Tracey


>Ruth Abair in Texas
>email: shakesbearides@texoma.net
>
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