Bridoons: Perfect Addition to the Double Bridle

Bridoon Bit: The Essential Counterpart to the Curb

The bridoon (or bridoon bit) is an essential component of the classic double bridle (Weymouth bridle). It is always used in combination with a curb bit. Visually, it resembles a normal loose ring snaffle or eggbutt snaffle, but it has two crucial differences: The bit rings are significantly smaller, and the mouthpiece is usually thinner. These adaptations are absolutely necessary since two bits must fit in the horse's mouth at the same time.

Function and Effect

While the curb bit with its leverage ensures elevation and collection, the bridoon takes on the tasks of a normal snaffle bit. It encourages lateral flexion, helps with bending, and ensures that the rider can give fine, differentiated aids. In the horse's mouth, the bridoon sits above (towards the corners of the mouth) the curb bit.

Choosing the Right Fit

Because the bridoon lies higher in the mouth than the curb (in a place where the jaw is slightly wider), it generally needs to be 0.5 to 1.0 cm wider than the curb bit. The smaller rings (usually about 55 mm in diameter) prevent them from interfering with the curb shanks or pinching the sensitive skin on the lips. When it comes to bit thickness, riders often choose very thin models (10 to 14 mm) so as not to overwhelm the horse's mouth with too much volume.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should the bridoon be single or double-jointed?
This depends entirely on the horse's preferences. Double-jointed bridoons often sit softer on the tongue and leave good space for the curb bar. Single-jointed models act a bit more on the edges of the tongue when the reins are pulled and often elevate the horse a bit more directly.

Can you ride a bridoon on its own without a curb?
Generally, yes. For horses with very small, delicate heads (like ponies or Arabs), bridoons are sometimes used as a regular snaffle bit in a standard bridle because of their small rings and slim thickness.

Which material is optimal for a bridoon?
Many riders prefer to use the same material for the bridoon and the curb (e.g., stainless steel or a copper alloy) to avoid any irritation from different metals in the mouth. Materials that stimulate salivation also promote relaxed chewing.