Understanding Different Types of Bits: A Rider's Guide

 Whether you're training a young horse or refining your aids for competition, the bit plays a major role in your communication and your horse's comfort. But with so many types - mouthpieces, cheekpieces, gags, Pelhams, loose rings, and more - it can be hard to know which one to choose.
This guide breaks it all down simply:

• The different styles of mouthpieces
• The most common cheekpiece types (rings)
• The role of gags, Pelhams, and combination bits
• And how to match your bit to your horse's needs 

1. Bit Anatomy: 

What Are the Key Parts? Before we dive in, here's what makes up a typical bit:

• Mouthpiece: The part that sits inside the horse's mouth
• Cheekpiece (or rings): The sides that attach to the bridle and reins 
• Joint(s): Determine how the pressure is distributed  

2. Common Mouthpiece Styles 

These influence how the bit feels inside the horse's mouth and how the pressure is distributed.

1. Single Jointed

• One hinge in the middle
• Applies "nutcracker" action on the tongue and bars
• Very common in basic snaffles
• Can pinch the palate on sensitive horses

Best for: Horses who prefer direct contact but don't mind tongue pressure

Shop Single Jointed Bits

2. Double Joint (French Link / Lozenge)

• Two joints with a central plate or lozenge
• Reduces palate pressure
• Provides softer, more even contact
• Promotes acceptance and relaxation

Best for: Sensitive horses, young horses, or those who dislike single joints

3. Straight Bar / Mullen Mouth

• No joint, just a curved or straight bar
• Applies even pressure across tongue and bars
• No independent side movement

Best for: Horses with quiet mouths or who dislike jointed bits

4. Ported Mouth

• Raised centre section (the "port") allows tongue relief
• Can reduce pressure on the tongue
• May apply more pressure on the bars or palate depending on design

Best for: Strong horses, those needing more tongue freedom

5. Rollers, Copper, Sweet Iron

• Bits may have rollers to encourage salivation
• Copper and sweet iron stimulate mouth activity
• Good for fussy or dry-mouthed horses

Shop Copper Roller and Sweet Iron Bits 

3. Cheekpieces: Rings & Bit Styles

These affect the leverage, turning action, and how the rein aids are delivered.

1. Loose Ring

• Rings move freely through the bit
• Encourages soft mouth and chewing
• Helps prevent leaning or bracing

Ideal for: Young horses, flatwork

2. Eggbutt

• Fixed, oval-shaped rings
• More stable in the mouth
• Less risk of pinching than loose ring

Ideal for: Horses needing steady contact

3. D-Ring

• D-shaped cheekpieces
• Adds slight lateral pressure (turning aid)
• Very popular in hunter/jumping bits

Ideal for: Young horses, straightness, steering

4. Full Cheek

• Long vertical arms that stabilise the bit
• Prevents bit from sliding sideways
• Excellent for schooling and lateral work

Ideal for: Green horses or riders working on steering

5. Baucher (Hanging Cheek)

• Small arm above the ring that connects to the cheekpiece
• Slight poll pressure without leverage
• Bit stays very still in the mouth

Ideal for: Horses who dislike movement or need poll pressure for softness 

4. Leverage Bits: Gags, Pelhams & Elevation

These provide more control by applying leverage pressure on the poll and curb groove.

1. Gag Bit

• Mouthpiece slides on rope or leather cheeks
• Elevates the head and applies strong poll pressure
• Used with special gag reins

Best for: Strong horses in jumping or fast-paced work Not for beginners - requires educated hands

2. Pelhams

• Combines snaffle and curb action
• Two rein positions: one on snaffle ring, one on curb shank
• Used with double reins or a converter strap

Best for: Horses needing more control, particularly in jumping or hacking
Note: Must be used with tact to avoid overbending or confusion 

3. Kimblewick / Uxeter

• Looks like a D-ring with slots or a curb chain
• Offers moderate leverage with a single rein
• Less refined than a Pelham but more control than a snaffle

Best for: Riders wanting extra brakes without two reins

5. How to Choose the Right Bit

Bit choice depends on your:

• Horse's mouth conformation (low palate, large tongue, etc.)
• Experience level of the rider
• Riding discipline (jumping, dressage, hacking)
• Horse's behaviour (leaning, head tossing, bracing)

When in doubt, start with something mild and listen to your horse's feedback. A softer bit in educated hands is more effective than a strong bit in harsh hands.

Final Thoughts

Bits are powerful tools of communication - and like any tool, they should be chosen with care. By understanding the difference between mouthpieces, cheekpieces, and leverage options, you can choose the bit that best supports your horse's comfort and training.

Still unsure which bit is best for your horse? 
Chat with our experienced team or email info@equijumpltd.com - we're happy to recommend options based on your horse's needs and experience.

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