Horse Bits Size Guide

The correct-sized horse bit is essential for keeping your horse calm, relaxed, and comfortable. And when your horse feels comfortable, you’ll enjoy a smoother, safer ride.

If you need assistance finding the right-sized bit, our years of experience in the saddle can help you to make the right choice. 

Measurement Instructions

There are many bit-sizing tools available that can help you to identify the best bit size for your horse. These affordable plastic measuring devices slide into a horse’s mouth and display the correct sizing.

Some measuring devices have a strap attached that slips over your horse’s head and measures bit height, providing a more accurate measurement.

Alternatively, you can use a piece of string and a marker to measure. Use the marker to mark the sides of your horse’s mouth against the string and measure the distance between both marks in inches to find a corresponding bit size. The length of the bit is measured as the length from the inside of one bit ring to the other. 

It’s also important to consider the thickness of the mouthpiece you need, which can be measured with a caliper gauge. 

If your horse falls between two sizes, it’s best to go a size up for a more comfortable fit rather than risking a too-tight bit. 

Fit Guidance

Your horse’s mouth should comfortably accommodate the thickness of the bit you choose. They should also be able to swallow easily and never be in clear physical discomfort while wearing a bit.

Your horse’s tongue should lie level with the bit bars or below them and not spill over the bars. If this happens, it indicates that the bit is too thick. The best bit fit is one that sits comfortably at the corners of your horse’s mouth while sticking out only minimally on either side.

If you’re unsure of the fit, your vet or equine dentist can help you determine the height of your horse’s palate and find an ideal bit fit.

Adjustments

Adjustments to your horse’s bit are best made by a skilled bit-fitting expert. They can accurately measure your horse’s mouth, tongue, palate, and palatine arch to determine the best possible fit for your equine’s physiology.

Your horse bit should be adjusted to rest on the toothless edge of your horse’s mandible so that it does not injure their teeth or mouth. If you need a flexible option to protect the corners of the mouth, gel bits fit softly into the mouth and move with your horse’s movements without requiring manual adjustment.

Safety Considerations

Your horse’s bit needs to be carefully fitted to keep them safe and comfortable. If a bit is too large or small, it can damage the trust between you while exerting pressure and discomfort on your horse’s cheeks and lips. 

A bit that’s too wide can also cause bruising inside the mouth, leading to dental and oral complications for your horse. If possible, consult an experienced bit fitter or veterinary expert to find the ideal fit.

Bit Care Tips 

Horse bits should be sterilised regularly. You can run your horse bit through a hot water dishwasher cycle at 180 degrees Celsius or scrub it thoroughly with a gentle toothbrush and a surgical scrub cleanser. 

Allow the solution to stay on the bit for at least 15 minutes, and then rinse with clean water. Once scrubbed, submerge the bit in a teaspoon of bleach to one litre of water and allow to sit for another 15 minutes before thoroughly rinsing and drying.

FAQS

What different types of horse bits are available?

At Ayr Equestrian, we have a wide range of different horse bit sizes and styles to choose from, including eggbutt snaffles, loose ring snaffles, Dutch gags, Pelham bits, D-ring bits, full cheek bits, and elevator bits.

How do I choose the right style bit for my horse?

The best style of bit for your horse will depend on the size and shape of their mouth, their receptiveness to wearing a bit, and their unique physiology. Connect with a bit fitting professional to identify the best style for your horse’s needs.

How do I know if my horse bit fits correctly?

A well-fitting horse bit should rest comfortably at both corners of your horse’s mouth while sticking out less than a quarter-inch on either side. It should not slide unstably through their mouth or cause pinching or pressure at the sides of their mouth.