The Art Of Bit Fitting

Anatomy/Oral Assessment

Each horse has an oral cavity that is unique to them. When evaluating a horse, their palete height + width is accessed in addition to the bars, tongue, and teeth. All will be considered when finding the bit that works best.

Current Bit Situation

What is your current bit? What kind of condition is it in? Do the bit measurements match the measurements found in the oral cavity? These are all things your fitter will look at during your appointment.

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Bit Under Work

How does your horse react to your current bit while being ridden? Are they behind or in front of the vertical, is their mouth open, are they heavy in the contact? Do they go better in another bit with characteristics in favour of their anatomy? All will be looked at during the ridden portion of the evaluation.

Measurements

Measurements of the interdental space, and width of the mouth are taken. This indicates the size of bit your horse is able to accommodate. Various sizing is required based on different bits.          ​​

Bit In Action

Weather your bit is a snaffle, curb, or both, they each have different actions within the mouth and different anatomical designs. Proper bit tension allows for these anatomical bits to preform as they should. It’s important to check and make sure everything is as intended.

Final Recommendations

At the conclusion of your fitting I will advise if your current bit is the correct choose for your horse. If not your fitter has bits you can purchase or recommendations will be left with you for your own shopping.