14 best bridles
Bridles are essential pieces of equipment in the world of equestrian sports and horseback riding. They are used to control and communicate with horses, allowing riders to guide, steer, and communicate with their horses effectively. Here is what you need to know about bridles:
Components: A typical bridle consists of several components, including the headstall, bit, reins, and sometimes additional accessories like a noseband or browband. These parts work together to give riders control over the horse's movements.
Headstall: The headstall is a strap that goes over the horse's head behind the ears and holds the bit in place. It often has buckles or snaps for adjustability and a throatlatch that goes under the horse's throat.
Bit: The bit is a metal or synthetic piece that goes into the horse's mouth and is attached to the headstall. It serves as the primary means of communication between the rider and the horse. There are various types of bits, each designed for specific riding disciplines and horse behaviors.
Reins: Reins are attached to the bit and are held by the rider's hands. The rider uses the reins to give signals to the horse, indicating when to stop, go, turn, or change speed. Reins can be made of leather, synthetic materials, or rubber, and their length can vary depending on riding style.
Noseband: Some bridles feature a noseband, which is a strap that goes over the horse's nose. It is used for additional control and to prevent the horse from opening its mouth too wide or evading the bit.
Browband: The browband is a strap that goes across the horse's forehead. It helps keep the headstall in place and adds decorative elements to the bridle's design.
Types of Bridles: There are different types of bridles designed for various equestrian disciplines, including dressage, show jumping, Western riding, and more.Each type of bridle may have specific features to accommodate the demands of the discipline.
Materials: Bridles are typically made from leather, which is durable and comfortable for the horse. However, synthetic materials like nylon or biothane are also used for bridles, as they are more affordable and easier to clean.
Fit and Adjustability: Proper fitting and adjustment of the bridle are crucial to ensure the horse's comfort and effective communication between the rider and the horse. A well-fitted bridle should not be too tight or too loose.
Bitless Bridles: Some riders opt for bitless bridles, which do not have a bit and rely on pressure points on the horse's head to control and communicate with the horse. These bridles are considered gentler on the horse's mouth and are often used for training or for horses with sensitive mouths.
Bridles are essential tools for horseback riding and are carefully chosen based on the rider's discipline, the horse's temperament, and the specific needs of both. They enable effective communication and control, ensuring a safe and enjoyable riding experience for both horse and rider.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best bridles on the market
Weaver Leather Latigo Leather Flat Sliding Ear Headstall Burgundy ,One Size
Weaver Leather
Product description
Weaver Leather Latigo Leather Headstall Made from single-ply 5/8" burgundy latigo leather, this headstall features a simple design at a great price. This soft, supple latigo leather headstall has double cheek adjustments and alum tanned leather lace water tie bit ends. Durable nickel plated hardware. Horse size. Features: Burgundy latigo leather Double cheek adjustments Nickel plated hardware
- Single Ply 5/8" Burgundy Latigo Leather
- Double Cheek Adjustments
- Alum Tanned Leather Lace Water Tie Bit Ends
- Nickel Plated Hardware
- Made by Weaver Leather Mt. Hope, Ohio
- Sport type: Equestrian
User questions & answers
| Question: | What is the length of the crown piece |
| Answer: | I agree with the others. The small would be too large for a mini. The average fits my AQHA mare and her sizable head with room to spare. |
Product features
About Weaver Leather
Founded by Harry A. Weaver in 1973 as the Fryburg Shoe Shop, Weaver Leather grew from humble beginnings into a trusted manufacturer of a wide range of leather and nylon goods.
Today’s Weaver Leather is experiencing continual growth and caters to a variety of U.S. and international customers in the markets it serves including equine, livestock, pet, leather supply, and arborist,. While much has changed through the years, our steadfast commitment to our customers remains our top priority.
Many of our products are handcrafted in Mt. Hope, Ohio and feature the finest materials, skilled American workmanship and finishing touches for years of dependable performance.
Our Divisions
Weaver Leather Working Tack Bridle
Weaver Leather
- Handcrafted from premium harness leather
- Includes 5/8 inch x 7-1/2' roper reins
- Features an all leather curb strap
- Leather is hand Rubbed for the ultimate performance
- Bit measures 5 inch
User questions & answers
| Question: | what type of metal is the bit? SS or chrome plated |
| Answer: | I think it would be too big. |
| Question: | Can I use this bridle with a Hackamore |
| Answer: | Yes it should. Fits my big boy! |
| Question: | is this for a normal horse size or a cob or? and why is there a hook on one side of the bit and a leather strap on the other? thanks for any info |
| Answer: | Yes, We bought it for a Quarter Horse and there is room to go smaller or bigger without too much overhang. We are pleased with the purchase. |
| Question: | Does it come with the bit |
| Answer: | It's like the photo. Very good quality. |
Tough 1 Western Leather Browband Draft Bridle
JT International
Product description
Doubled and stitched 1" wide leather with stained edges. Browband headstall complete with snaffle bit and split reins.
- Doubled and stitched
- Browband headstall complete with snaffle bit and split reins
- 1" wide leather with stained edges
- Dark oil finish
User questions & answers
| Question: | What's the color? Description says black, but the picture shows brown |
| Answer: | No, not even close. Most Schleich horses are around 4" long, and traditional Breyer horses are 10 to 12" long. If you found a breyer blanket for their paddock pal those would be the closest to size. |
| Question: | how long is the browband in inches |
| Answer: | The model is Trakehner, and I'd guess the horse used was specifically "passport to model horse collecting", #1299, issued from 2007 to 2008 (curtesy of ID your Breyer website) |
| Question: | Can it be changed out for a straight bit |
| Answer: | Horse not included |
| Question: | Does this headstall come with snaffle bit? if so what size is the sniffle bit i have a 18 hands belgian draft |
| Answer: | Hello Paula, No this blanket is for Breyer horse not real horses. Thank You Horse Hound and More |
Acerugs Brown Black Raised Horse English Bridle Stitched
Acerugs
- Bit to Bit: 39-45" with room for adjustments
- Noseband: 24-29" with room for adjustments
- Reins: 9' Connected reins
- Browband: 16"
- Bit NOT Included
User questions & answers
| Question: | does it come with rains |
| Answer: | For future reference, yes a cob size should fit a 13h pony |
| Question: | How wide is the Leather |
| Answer: | Snaffle is the type of bit that is on the briddle |
| Question: | Will this fit a fjord head |
| Answer: | Cob is for the Arab my thought would be the thoroughbred has a longer head and probably would not fit |
| Question: | What is the measurement of the crown piece not including the split part |
| Answer: | Yes, this bridle comes with laced reins.Fox's Den Tack Shop |
Product features
100% Natural Leather
These bridles are made with 100% natural cowhide leather.
Single Nose Band Design
The single nose band design makes this the perfect all purpose bridle set! This set is great for showing, jumping, flat work, or out on the trails.
Easily Adjustable
The throat latch and cheek pieces are easily adjustable to be able to fit many different horses.
Free Reins Included
Each bridle set will come with a free pair of connected reins.
Horse bit NOT included.
Wonder Care Genuine Leather Crossover | Crossunder English Bitless Bridle Headstall with Reins
Wonder Care
- Material: 100% Vegetable Tanned (chrome free) Genuine Leather. Stainless Steel hardware. Soft Leather for browband and noseband padding.
- Workmanship: Sewn on imported machines, finished and polished by hand.
- Comfortable to the horse, safe, gentle and effective
- Please refer to sizing chart before ordering. The bridle needs to be adjusted for the horse at the first application.
- Provided with 3/4 inch wide full leather reins.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is the nose band removable |
| Answer: | They are round. Like the material from which they are made - soft. Also like the diameter of the reins, because I like reins that I can really grasp soundly. Very happy with the product. |
| Question: | Can you use it for western riding |
| Answer: | The leather is brown but the ties are more burgundy |
| Question: | Is large meant for a draft cross or just a large QH |
| Answer: | I haven't had the need to try to stretch them, but they are soft and not tightly woven, so I'd think they would stretch some, especially if they get wet. I have no idea if they would fully recover if stretched. I like the reins. They're very comfortable. |
| Question: | What size would fit my 14.1/14.2 hand quarter horse best |
| Answer: | It was a pair. They are very good quality leather. |
Tough 1 King Series Browband Bridle with Hackamore
JT International
Product description
Fine quality bridle leather, smoothed and darkened edges. Doubled and stitched. Complete with reins, curb chain and hackamore.
- Fine quality bridle leather
- Doubled and stitched
- Smoothed and darkened edges
- Color is Medium tan
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will this fit a 16hh tb? Also with this help woah a horse who like to go fast |
| Answer: | No, I've never bought a bridle that came with a bit. I love the bridle. |
| Question: | Will this fit my 13.1 hand pony |
| Answer: | No. There isn't a bit with this bridle. |
| Question: | Will this fit a 16hh ottb |
| Answer: | Hi,Oversize means warmblood size. This bridle comes in 3 sizes - cob, Horse, and oversize. I'm backordered til May 10 on most of them. |
| Question: | Will this fit a large horse |
| Answer: | To the outside rings on nose piece. This works very well on our Fell and Halflinger ponies. I just ordered 2 more for our Tennessee Walkers. |
Justin Dunn Bitless Bridle
Weaver Leather, LLC
Product description
We worked closely with Justin on this gentle yet effective design that improves communication between horse and rider by asking the horse to respond to pressure instead of force. Durable, weather-resistant harness leather is dipped in oil, dressed with leather butter and hand rubbed for a great feel and performance. Slimmer Black option is perfect for English, dressage and crossover riders. Premium rope nose with two strategically-placed knots encourage horse to give to pressure and seek release features non-rust stainless steel buckles.
- Gentle yet effective design improves communication between horse and rider
- Horse responds to pressure instead of force
- Slim, Black design is perfect for English, dressage and crossover riders
- Strategically placed Knots on rope nose encourage horse to give to pressure and seek release
- Non-rust stainless steel buckles
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will this bridle fit a standard quarter horse |
| Answer: | I think so. They are a little long, but have a lot of room for adjustments. |
| Question: | Does it come with reins |
| Answer: | yes, they come in a pair. one side rein for each side of the horse's bit. |
| Question: | Will this fit large pony |
| Answer: | Yes they will |
| Question: | Will this work on a draft horse that has a strong mouth |
| Answer: | nope, not split reins |
Product features
Bitless Bridles
Weaver Leather worked closely with Justin Dunn on this gentle yet effective design that improves communication between horse and rider by asking the horse to respond to pressure instead of force through the use of two strategically placed knots on the nose of the bridle.
Unbeatable Quality
Handcrafted from top quality leather in a variety of options, our leather bridles are designed to withstand rugged use and get better with age.
Henri de Rivel Pro Mono Crown Fancy Stitched Padded Bridle
JPC Equestrian Inc
Product description
Your saddle is a valuable thing, make sure it is secure with the Emma Saddle Bag, in a new attractive Emma design.
- Contoured Padded Mono Crown
- 1 Padded Fancy Stitched Raised Browband and Noseband with White Stitching
- ½ Cheek Pieces | 5/8 Laced Reins
- Available in Havana and Australian Nut
- Imported Leather
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does it come with reins |
| Answer: | Since the description states black that is what I would guess but I would recommend contacting the seller directly. Thanks! |
Weaver Leather Deluxe Latigo Leather Side Pull, Double Rope
Weaver Leather, LLC
Product description
This soft, supple 5/8 inch Burgundy latigo leather brow band headstall features a double rope noseband that provides side-to-side pulling action on your horse's face. The second ring rein attachment allows the rope noseband to roll across nose and is perfect for starting a good head set. Durable nickel plated hardware. Horse size.
- Burgundy latigo leather construction
- Second ring rein attachment allows the rope noseband to roll across the nose
- Double rope nosepiece provides side-to-side pulling action
- Durable nickel plated hardware
User questions & answers
| Question: | Do you think this would fit a POA |
| Answer: | Have to three quarters of an inch |
| Question: | Could you tie a lead rope to this like a halter when stopping on the trail for lunch, using either a side ring or adding a ring underneath |
| Answer: | The buckles are stitched on, but I think you can order them with tie ends as well. |
| Question: | Will this fit a Roman Nosed horse? I worry about it being too snug on the nose |
| Answer: | Soft and heavy not stiff. |
| Question: | Can you change out the noseband? Are there fitting instructions somewhere |
| Answer: | These side reins have a large amount of room for adjustment. That's the appeal. Depending on how they are used, you can double up the nylon end to make them shorter. I find them to run long, and my horses are 17hh. I would say, without wrapping the nylon end around the girth or whatever you choose, they will be too long for the size horses you mentioned. However, with a little creativity, you could definitely make them work! |
Product features
About Weaver Leather
Founded by Harry A. Weaver in 1973 as the Fryburg Shoe Shop, Weaver Leather grew from humble beginnings into a trusted manufacturer of a wide range of leather and nylon goods.
Today’s Weaver Leather is experiencing continual growth and caters to a variety of U.S. and international customers in the markets it serves including equine, livestock, pet, leather supply, and arborist,. While much has changed through the years, our steadfast commitment to our customers remains our top priority.
Many of our products are handcrafted in Mt. Hope, Ohio and feature the finest materials, skilled American workmanship and finishing touches for years of dependable performance.
Our Divisions
Intrepid International Nylon Race Horse Bridle
Intrepid International
Product description
Race Horse Bridle Made of all Nylon, the racing bridle will have white rubber grip reins, cave son and curb strap. Color: Black, Blue, Hunter, Purple, Red, White and Yellow.
- Quality Nylon race bridle with plenty of adjustment to fit any horse
- Rubber grip reins
- Complete with cave son and curb strap
User questions & answers
| Question: | Would this fit a morgan part pertron? Horse |
| Answer: | 7' 11" x 3/8" |
| Question: | Do it come with attached reains on unattached |
| Answer: | I am not sure what they are made of, but they are heavy duty and nice. My only complaint is that they don't open wide enough to snap to my cinch rings. |
| Question: | Can the brow band be detached? Can the part that does around the nose be detached |
| Answer: | Yes, that's why I'm returning mine . |
| Question: | What is the width of the reins |
| Answer: | Yes |
CHALLENGER Horse Western Leather Beaded Bitless Sidepull Bridle Reins 77RS06PK-F
Challenger Horsewear
Product description
Challenger hand crafted from quality harness leather, double stitched and oiled for durability. Beautifully accented with a beaded inl
- Full Average Horse Size
- Tan/Pink
- Challenger hand crafted from quality harness leather, double stitched and oiled for durability. Beautifully accented with a beaded inl
- ay along browband and nose. Features stainless steel rust-free hardware. Fits most average to large horses. Sidepulls are a perfect bitless training aid for horses that are not bit ready.
- Heavy reinforcedstitching for durability
Horse Western Leather Tack Studded Bitless Sidepull Bridle Reins Brown 77RS03
Challenger Horsewear
- Full
- Brown
- Challenger sidepulls are perfect bitless training aid for horses that are not bit ready. Great for horses with sensitive mouths or have had an injury. Hand crafted from quality harness leather, double stitched and oiled for durability. Features a padded crown, browband, and nose for comfort. Fits most average to large horses. Rust-free stainless steel hardware. Complete with split reins.
- Heavy reinforcedstitching for durability
Reinsman 951 Mechanical Hackamore with Flat Leather Nose; Stage C
Reinsman
- Mechanical hackamore with flat leather nose
- Great for novice riders
- Made in Texas
- Stage C - Neck reining
- Reinsman Bit 951
User questions & answers
| Question: | How do you measure the horse's cheek/head to know this hackamore will fit |
| Answer: | Yes, you can use this guard set: Wahl Professional Animal Stainless Steel Attachment Guide Comb Set for Detachable Blade Pet, Dog, Cat, and Horse Clippers (#3390-100). Please note you will also need a #30 detachable blade because this clipper kit comes with a Wahl X-Block blade, which is not compatible with the guards. |
| Question: | Are there minimum/maximum sizes for the headstall to attach to this hackamore |
| Answer: | Because this clipper was intended for use on cattle, it operates at a very high speed with a sharp cattle fitting blade. While I highly advise against using this product for human use, if you intend to use this for human hair, you will need to purchase different blades and we would recommend using this clipper on its lowest speed setting for your own safety. |
| Question: | Is the nose band metal covered in leather |
| Answer: | They are super super long and the clips broke within first use... I don’t recommend these... |
Product features
All Reinsman bits carry our handshake promise
Reinsman’s Handshake Promise is a lifetime promise from the manufacturer. Our commitment to you is to build the highest quality products from the best materials. Reinsman bits are to be free of craftsmanship defects throughout their useful life. If something goes wrong, we will repair the bit for free during its useful life.
Dover Saddlery Suffolk Hunter Bridle, Brown
Dover Saddlery
Product description
Suffolk by Dover Saddlery Hunter Bridle, Brown - The Suffolk by Dover Saddlery Hunter Bridle is attractive enough for shows and durable enough for schooling. With its lovely stitching, this traditional crown bridle represents the best quality available at a budget-friendly price. Offered in rich brown, it features padded browband, padded noseband and hook stud closures. It includes matching laced reins. Imported. Available in multiple sizes.
About Dover Saddlery: Dover Saddlery only offers quality products that they would use on their own horses, so you can have complete confidence in your every purchase. The Dover tradition that began in 1975 continues today - using their understanding of horses and the sport to better serve the equestrian customer.
- Attractive enough for shows and durable enough for schooling
- With its lovely stitching, this traditional crown bridle represents the best quality available at a budget-friendly price
- Offered in rich brown
- it features a padded browband, padded noseband and hook stud closures
- From Dover Saddlery: The leader in equestrian products for over 40 years offering the best quality horse and rider products throughout the US
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