Bombers Williams McHardy
$185.00
Out of stockSnaffle Bits
Snaffle bits act directly on the corners of the mouth, tongue and bars, with no leverage from shanks or a curb chain. They are the most common bits for everyday riding, young horses and dressage at lower levels. This range covers loose ring, eggbutt, dee ring and full cheek snaffles in single jointed, double jointed, mullen and ported mouthpieces.
They are part of our wider Bits collection.
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Choosing a Cheekpiece
The rings or cheeks change how the bit sits and moves in the mouth.
- Loose ring snaffles move freely and encourage a horse to mouth the bit.
- Eggbutt rings are fixed, so the bit stays still and cannot pinch the lips.
- Dee ring snaffles are fixed with a flat side that helps steering.
- Full cheek bars stop the bit sliding through the mouth and help young horses turn.
Mouthpiece Shapes
Single jointed snaffles have a nutcracker action. Double jointed bits with a centre lozenge or link lie flatter over the tongue. Mullen and ported mouths have no joint and give more tongue room.
Sweet iron and copper are often chosen to encourage a horse to salivate and accept the bit. Soft synthetic mouths suit sensitive horses.
Measuring for a Snaffle
Measure the mouthpiece between the rings. There should be about half a centimetre either side of the lips. Too narrow pinches, too wide slides and bangs on the teeth.
Bit guards and rubbers to protect the lips are in bit accessories.
Other Bit Types
For more brakes or lift, riders move to a gag bit or pelham. Advanced dressage uses double bridle bits, and some horses go best in a bitless hackamore.
Pair your bit with a bridle from horse bridles.
Brands in This Category
Snaffle ranges include Trust, Sprenger, Bombers and Metalab.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mildest snaffle bit?
There is no single mildest bit, because comfort depends on the shape of each horseās mouth and the riderās hands. Many horses go kindly in a thick, double jointed loose ring or eggbutt snaffle, or a soft mullen mouth. A bit that fits well and is used with light, steady contact is usually the gentlest.
What is the difference between a loose ring and an eggbutt snaffle?
A loose ring snaffle has rings that slide through holes in the mouthpiece, so the bit moves and encourages the horse to mouth it. An eggbutt has fixed, barrel shaped joints, so the bit stays still and cannot pinch the corners of the lips. Horses that fuss may prefer the stillness of an eggbutt.
How do I know what size snaffle my horse needs?
Measure the width of the mouth with a piece of string or a bit measure, or check the current bit that fits well. Measure the mouthpiece only, from the inside of one ring to the other. Most horses take 12.5 to 13.5 cm, ponies smaller and warmbloods larger.
Are snaffle bits allowed in dressage?
Yes. Snaffle bits are required or allowed at most dressage levels, but the permitted mouthpieces, ring types and materials are set by each organisation. Some designs, such as certain gag or lever snaffles, are not allowed. Check the current rules for your level before competing in a new bit.
