Are Waterford bits Hunter legal?
6 min read
Asked by: Lisa Soto
For bit mouthpieces, just about anything goes. Single-jointed, double-jointed, rollers, twisted wires, French links, lozenges, Dr. Bristols, Waterfords, mullen mouths, corkscrews, and so many more styles…. all legal.
Are Waterford bits legal?
“Usually, horses are strong because they get rigid. The Waterford is excellent for suppling these types of horses.” The Waterford is not legal for dressage, however. Another strong snaffle mouthpiece (not legal for dressage) that is frequently combined with D-rings or full-cheek rings is the slow twist.
What bits are legal in Hunters?
Hunter competitions have their own set of rules on which bits are show legal.
- Snaffles, pelhams, and full-cheek bridles, all with cavesson nosebands, are required.
- Judges may penalize, but may not eliminate, a horse or pony that competes in an unconventional snaffle, pelham, or full-cheek bridle.
What bits are not allowed in the hunter ring?
Illegal bits includes two & three ring bits, jumper-type gags, etc. The judge MUST eliminate the competitor if these are used. Illegal nosebands in the hunter ring include dropped nosebands, flash nosebands, and figure 8’s.
Is a Waterford bit a harsh bit?
As a waterford restricts a horse from grabbing hold of the bit with their tongue and teeth, it means they are unable to lean on the bit as the joints collapse and move around. In result of this, the Waterford is a relatively strong and severe bit for a horse – so is best to use for those very strong horses.
What is a Waterford bit?
It is a flexible bit that moulds round the horse’s mouth, creating an even pressure. It is moveable in all directions and horses find it difficult to lean or take hold of it, giving the rider good levels of control.
Can you show a Hunter in a loose ring?
I’ve seen many hunters on the As showing in a loose ring – it is perfectly legal. If that is what your horse likes, than don’t hesitate to use it. Horsemanship first; following trends second. I showed all summer at the A shows local to me in a loose ring and gasp breastplate!
What is the most gentle bit for a horse?
eggbutt
One of the most common types of snaffle bit is the eggbutt, which is considered to be the gentlest type of snaffle bit because it doesn’t pinch the corners of the horse’s mouth. It has an egg-shaped connection between the mouthpiece and the bit-ring.
What’s the best bit for a strong horse?
Gag bits. Gag bits act on the poll, the tongue and the corners of the mouth. Unlike 3-ring bits and Pelhams, this type of bit is very well suited for horses that lean on the bit or pull downwards.
What is the softest bit for a horse?
Best Soft Bits for Horses:
| Category | Bit | Price Point |
|---|---|---|
| Best Non-Metal Soft Bit | Happy Mouth Shaped Mullen Loose Ring | $30-$50 |
| Best Metal Soft Bit | Myler Eggbutt No Hook Low Port Comfort Snaffle | $125-$150 |
| Best Leather Bit | Metalab Leather Loose Ring Snaffle | $80-$100 |
How do I stop my horse from chomping on the bit?
Davis is commonly asked what to do if a horse starts chomping or playing around with the bit in its mouth. “The first thing is to get their teeth checked by a veterinarian,” he says. “After that, loosen the headstall to drop the bit down, and teach them how to carry that bit.”
Is a hanging cheek snaffle harsh?
There is a widely held misconception that hanging cheek (or Baucher) bits increase pressure on the poll much like a leverage bit. In reality, the hanging cheek design relieves poll pressure and is a form of mild snaffle. In fact, hanging cheek bits are milder on the poll than even a loose ring!
What is the best bit for a thoroughbred?
Here are my TOP 5 OTT Thoroughbred bits!
- Neue Schule Turtle Top Snaffle. The BEST bit for a an overactive ‘chompy’ mouth and grinding. …
- Bombers Happy Tongue Eggbutt Snaffle. …
- Bombers Elliptical Dressage Snaffle. …
- Neue Schule Verbindend Hunter Dee. …
- Bombers Moulded Mullen Eggbutt Snaffle.
What bit do race horses use?
The two most common bits worn by racehorses are a D-bit and a ring bit. Both bits are snaffles, meaning the mouthpiece is made up of two jointed segments of metal. The D-bit is easiest on a horse’s mouth and the simplest. Its name describes the D-shaped rings that attach the ends of the bit to the bridle.
What bit to use on an ex racehorse?
Finally, a simple horse bit guide for OTTB enthusiasts.
| OTTB Bit | Category |
|---|---|
| Myler SS Loose Ring Comfort Snaffle | Best All-Purpose Bit |
| Happy Mouth Contour Double Jointed Round Eggbutt | Best for Fussy Horses |
| Happy Mouth Pro King Dee Shaped Mullen Bit | Best for Hard Pullers |
| Loose Ring Waterford | Best for Developing Talents |
What bit should I use for my ex racehorse?
Traditionally racehorses were ridden in single-jointed loose-ring snaffles but recently the benefits of alternatives are realised. Bits with a lozenge mouthpiece are the most commonly used outside of racing.
Can ex-racehorses make good riding horses?
Former racehorses are typically athletic and intelligent and, with the constant handling they have received during their racing career, they can make excellent riding horses in the right hands. But the time and effort involved in retraining them off the track means they aren’t suitable for everyone.
How often should I ride my OTTB?
At the beginning, I want you to ride seven days a week. Don’t ride for long, 30-45 minute is plenty. During that period, you will have to experiment with your training pattern, to find out what works best for you and your horse.
How much does a retired racehorse cost?
Value depends on how long you are willing to wait and how many people you have looking at your horse. While it is rare for horses fresh off the track to sell for more than $5,000 as riding prospects it has been known to happen. Prices are more often in the $1,000 to $3,000 range.
Do race horses get slaughtered?
Two-thirds of horses set to slaughter are quarter horses, and many are castoffs from the rodeo or racing industries. The Thoroughbred-racing industry sends an estimated 10,000 horses to slaughter annually, meaning that half of the 20,000 new foals born each year will eventually be killed for their flesh.
What breed of horse is the friendliest?
1. American Quarter Horse. Generally regarded as one of the calmest and quietest of all horse breeds, the American Quarter Horse is so-named for its ability to run a quarter-mile in the shortest time. As well as being lightning fast, this horse is one of the most popular breeds in the world.
Do ex racehorses make good eventers?
Ex-racehorses adapt very well to eventing with several making it to the most prestigious competitions in the world. During these top events, especially Badminton and Burghley, we like to track the progress of the ex-racehorses throughout the event.
Can you jump thoroughbreds?
Those horses are generally bred for dressage and show jumping, while Thoroughbreds are bred for galloping, speed and endurance. This can mean that Thoroughbreds jump a bit more flat and quick, which may make them a little less careful.
Can you buy retired race horses?
Racehorse owners
Owners often give retired racehorses away. You can obtain a retired racehorse directly from an owner; this is the easiest. It would be best if you had contacts in the horse racing world, but getting to know people in the horse business isn’t difficult.
