Information on Training Snaffle Bits

Horsemanship starts with training, and training starts with the proper bit. Snaffle bits are perhaps the most popular choice for the initial training of young horses, although their usefulness doesn't end there. Many trainers and riders only use snaffle bits. As with other styles of bits, there are many variations of the snaffle bit.

  1. Significance

    • Snaffle bits are the most common bit for training in all riding disciplines.

      Snaffle bits are the most common type of bit used at all levels of a horse's training. Snaffle bits are connected to a bridle with a headstall that has a throatlatch. The reins attach to the rings on the snaffle bit as well. Snaffle bits are identified not by the mouthpiece--they can be jointed or straight--but by how the bit exerts pressure. Some curb and shank bits are referred to as "training snaffles" simply because they are jointed.

    Function

    • Snaffle bits are a direct connection between the horse's mouth and the rider's hands.

      Snaffle bits exert pressure on the horse's bars (the space between horses' incisors and molars), tongue and corners of the mouth. They are a mild bit that puts the rider's hand in direct contact with the horse's mouth. Snaffle bits are generally jointed in the middle so that a pull by the rider's right hand will exert pressure on the horse's right cheek.

    Types

    • French link snaffle bits have three pieces that form the mouthpiece.

      Snaffle bits are distinguished by their rings. The rings of a loose-ring snaffle bit can slide around holes connected to the mouthpiece. Egg-butt snaffle bits have the same form as loose-ring bits, but the rings are attached to the mouthpiece with hinges. Some riders prefer egg-butt snaffle bits because the horse's mouth can be pinched by the loose-ring snaffles. D-ring snaffles are variations of egg-butt bits with rings shaped like the letter D. These bits provide even more protection against pinching.

      There are other differences between different styles of snaffle bits. The mouthpiece of French link snaffles has three sections, which gives horses with low palates relief from the bit by softening the bend in the center of the mouth. Lightweight hollow-mouth bits have foam or hollow centers, and their width also makes them milder. Twisted wire snaffles have twisted bits that can be very harsh to the horse. Twisted bits are rarely used.

    Considerations

    • Snaffle bits are the choice of trainers for starting horses.

      During initial training sessions with a bit and bridle, selecting the right bit establishes the foundation for a lifetime of positive riding. Most trainers will begin with a specific type of snaffle, such as a sweet iron bit. The sweet iron tastes good to a horse, encouraging acceptance. Some trainers prefer a D-ring snaffle to avoid any risk of the horse's mouth getting pinched. Generally, thicker bits are chosen for the green horse as the thicker the bit, the milder it is.

    Benefits

    • Older horses may need thinner snaffle bits.

      Because of their mildness and many metal and style options, snaffle bits are used by many riders throughout their horse's life. Older horses that have become unresponsive to their bit may need one that is thinner--a bit with a diameter of 3/16 of an inch instead of 3/8 of an inch. When training, select the thickest bit possible that makes the horse responsive.