Bit & Bridle Fitting

Bitting recommendations based on science, not sales

Confession: I never planned on offering bit and bridle fitting as a service to my clients. When I first traveled to the Netherlands to shadow with independent bit fitters, I just wanted to learn more about bit mechanics. When I saw the immediate, drastic differences in the way the horse’s movement and responsiveness, I knew I needed to bring this much needed service to the US.

As in independent fitter, I have hand selected an inventory of bits from nearly 20 different manufacturers. During a bit fitting consultation, I will pull from an inventory of more than 1,000 bits to help solve contact issues and improve movement patterns. Because of the way the tongue and jaw connect to the rest of the body, changes to the bit and bridle have effects on the entire body.

Bit/bridle fittings are recommended for horses who.

  • Pull, lean, root, or are inconsistent in the contact

  • Have tried several bits, but none of them seem quite right

  • Are rehabbing, and need to optimize a specific movement pattern

  • Have head, neck, poll, TMJ, or hyoid problems as noted by a vet, chiropractor, or bodyworker

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Process

  • 1. Rider Interview

    You have an ideal feeling you’re looking for in the contact. Quicker reaction time? Less resistance? More consistent connection? I will make recommendations based on the specific feeling you’re seeking.

  • 2. Horse Evaluation

    Each horse has unique oral anatomy. I will take into account the size and shape of the palate, tongue, and bars; and check for previous oral injuries or sensitivities.

  • 3. Ridden Evaluation

    Starting in your own bit and bridle, I will watch the horse’s response to the bit and rein aids, and look for any poor movement patterns that may be corrected with a bit change.

  • 4. Bit Trial

    The most fun part of the process. Using information gathered during the appointment, I will pull from an inventory of 1,000+ bits to find the best option for horse and rider. Improvements are often immediate, and can be dramatic.

Current Brands

Your Questions, Answered

  • Please be ready to ride, and have the horse groomed and ready to the tacked up. If you would like to try jumping bits, please have fences set.

  • Yes, every bit and bridle in my inventory is available for purchase. Most riders will leave the appointment with their new bit/bridle perfectly fitted and ready for the next ride.

    Rarely, I will need to special order a size or part. This may take several weeks as products may be built to order or ship from overseas.

  • About 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the complexity of the case. Fittings with multiple bittings ( snaffle + double bridle, cross country + showjumping, flat + jumping) may be longer.

  • Although I have an inventory of 1000+ bits, we can typically narrow it down to the best option after trying 2-5 bits.

  • Yes, all bridle fittings are fully custom, meaning we can mix and match from various brands to build the perfect bridle for you and your horse.

    While proper fit is my #1 priority, I do carry a wide selection of colors and styles to suit your preferences.

  • For horses with significant sensitivity, head/mouth injuries, or unique anatomy, I carry an inventory of specialty bridles to help your horse continue training.

  • Sometimes, an issue in the body or in training can manifest as a contact issue. Horses that respond poorly during a bit fitting may be referred back to their equine vet or dentist to rule out other issues.

  • Yes, I carry a selection of bitless bridles, hackamores, and combination bridles.

  • I set my pricing based on the lowest price allowed by the manufacturer on the US market.

    If you find the same bit advertised for a lower price from a US based tack shop, I will match it.

  • As an independent fitter, I do not work based off commission, nor am I required to carry specific bits or brands. My training was not sponsored by one specific comapny. Recommendations I make are based purely on science and biomechanics.

  • Ridden evaluation is the most important part of a bit fitting.

    For horses that are rehabbing, I recommend scheduling a bit fitting as soon as your horse is cleared to begin tack walking.

  • Bit/bridle fit can be evaluated every 6-12 months, or longer if the rider and trainer are still happy with the contact.

    Sometimes, horses who are quickly progressing through training or rehab may require new bits much sooner (every few weeks or months) as they become stronger and require more advanced movements and communication.

  • Absolutely not. If we find a bit you liked but aren’t ready to purchase yet, I can write down the specifics, or ship it to you at a later date.

    And occasionally, the best option for a bit is the one that you were already using.

  • All bits/bridles are available for ridden trial during the appointment. I am not currently able to offer extended trials. If you would like to jump, flat, or have your trainer ride in the new bit, this is happily accommodated during the appointment.

  • Yes, if you know exactly what you need, I am happy to ship or drop off items if local. Please note that I am unable to accept returns.