Parts of a Bridle & Saddle

You have to be a great horse rider to ride bareback. Modern bridles and saddles make riding a horse easier by giving you control over the horse and his movements. Beginning equestrians should be familiar with a few basic parts. Gaining knowledge about horseback riding gear fortifies your first riding experiences, while increasing your safety until you learn all there is to know about bridles and saddles.

  1. Bit

    • The University of Minnesota Extension reports that a bit is the most important part of a bridle; it's your primary means of communication with the horse. The bit must sit in the horse's mouth properly if you want him to respond as you direct him with the bridle reins. If your horse isn't responding properly, you may need to double-check the bit to make sure it fits the horse's mouth.

    Reins

    • Bridle reins allow you to manipulate the bit and issue directions to the horse as you move them. They come in a variety of materials. For example, braided reins provide lots of grip, but can result in discomfort if you're not wearing gloves. Leather reins are prone to cracking and stretching, but are commonly used in English and Western riding styles. Web reins are a popular choice among people who enjoy horseback riding, because they won't rot or crack as easily as leather reins. If your reins look like they are too worn to be reliable, picking a bridle in better condition will make riding a horse less stressful. The last thing a beginning equestrian needs is an uncontrollable, runaway horse. An easy ride requires sturdy reins that you can depend on.

    Stirrups

    • An important aspect of a safe ride is making sure the stirrups of your saddle are the proper length for your legs. The saddle sits on the back of the horse. Your feet go in the stirrups as you mount. They help you control the horse as you ride. If the length of your stirrups is too long, you won't be able to bear down into the saddle and ride. If your horse gets spooked, being able to plant your feet firmly into stirrups and ride out jerky motions will keep you from suffering a painful fall.

    Girth

    • The girth runs from the saddle down around the horse's trunk. It ties the saddle to the horse. A loose girth will slide as you try to mount and ride, and if it's too loose, your body and saddle may shift to one side, making for a very unpleasant ride until the saddle is adjusted. Check your saddle's girth before you mount a horse, and make sure it's tied and secure.