Combination Bits For Horses

A combination bit pairs a bit mouthpiece with a hackamore-style noseband action, distributing pressure across the nose, poll and mouth simultaneously. The Trust Equestrian Hackamore Combi range is the typical example - the bit sits in the mouth as normal, but a metal nosepiece adds bitless-style nose pressure when the rein is taken.

A combination bit suits horses that benefit from spreading rein pressure across multiple contact points rather than focusing it on the mouth alone. Common with horses returning to work after dental issues, horses sensitive in the mouth, or horses that need more control without going to a stronger mouthpiece. Useful for cross-country and stronger horses.

The bit mouthpiece sizes like any standard bit - measure mouth width and pick the right width. The noseband component should sit halfway between the cheekbone and the corner of the mouth, and fit close enough that you can fit two fingers under it. Combination bits have more components than a standard bit - allow extra fitting time.

A hackamore is purely bitless - rein pressure transfers entirely through the noseband, with no mouthpiece. A combination bit retains the mouthpiece for fine cues but adds bitless nose action for control distribution. It's a halfway point between bitted and bitless work.

Trust Equestrian covers the Hackamore Combi range across the Inno Sense flexible synthetic, sweet iron and leather lines, in short and long shank patterns. Metalab covers the SS Combination pattern. For full hackamores (no mouthpiece), see hackamore bits.

Rinse the bit and metalwork after every ride. The hackamore noseband should be wiped clean of sweat. Inspect both the mouthpiece and the noseband joint regularly - combination bits have more wear points than a standard bit.