To everyone asking me to try bit less on Emporio... it’s coming very soon 🙈 I hope this video can help anyone who uses bits to make sure their horses are as comfortable as possible. I think the argument Bit vs Bit less shouldn’t be as relevant as to what is actually BETTER for YOUR horse. Everyone should do what works best for their horse as long as it’s not abusive. Weather it’s a bit less bridle, a bit or even riding on neck rope if you are able to train correctly none of these methods should be causing pain, but that’s always up to us as riders. I have ridden my horses with a bit and also with the Nalanta bit less bridle... I find that both work well in their own way!
Anyone who thinks they need a bit for their horse obviously can’t ride well or their horse isn’t trained well. No well trained horse should ever need a piece of metal in their mouth in order to control them. Bits can’t be used without causing some sort of discomfort as that is their purpose. They are meant to apply pressure to the gums which is obviously going to cause some degree of discomfort
Isla Cassells what level dressage are you riding to have this opinion? Matt is a dressage trained rider I’m sure he plans on competing at some stage for competition he is going to possibly have to move to a double bridle if he levels up , It is a ruled requirement no exceptions . Matt here is finding a bit that works for his dressage training , maybe your method works for playing around on an older horse but not for dressage
10:51 "Bits aren't to fix training problems or to force anything, the bits should be fitted to be the most comfortable and suitable for the horse (...). There's no fixing things with bits" I love this statement
Correct, but an uncomfortable bit can distract the horse to the point of falling on his face at the first bit of uneven ground. Mine hated jointed bits, went happily in snaffle with shank and unbroken or billy allen. The more mobile the bit the more unpredictable it is. Some horses love that, some can't find a way to have it sit comfortably (and those will chew/mess with it untill the bridle comes off). Chewing on it is not always a good sign.
storytimeee: i was so sad when i visited my old stable a few months ago when i saw that the stableowner put a giant, strong bit in a “bigger/stronger” haflinger. When i rode him weeks before that he was actually really nice to ride and responded really well on just a normal bit. I’m not anti bit but i am against bits that are just so wrong for the horse. People easily think that it’s the horse or the equipment that has to change for the horse to respond better but it’s really just the rider in most of these cases. For example: i got to take care of a super sweet pony for the entire winter of 2018, he’s literally the sweetest and kindest horse i’ve ever met and he always responded perfectly. Even the owners said he’s progressed a lot and was much nicer to ride since he came back. But recently i’ve heard stories that he bucks children off and runs out of the riding arena, which he has never done in the 7 months he’s been with me. Of course, every horse has their moments of excitement and eveything, but he absolutely never did this to me. The tack never changed and neither did his food or anything else. It’s really just the rider!
It would be nice if you also filmed when/if you get a saddle fitter the next time. We need to spread awareness of back pain caused by non-fitted saddles. 😄
It’s so cool to watch Matt get so many subscribers and become one of the biggest equestrian influencers on RU-vid! Matt you really deserve it, you’re such a role model for young riders like myself
the gal who helped you did such a wonderful job explaining and talking about all the different bits and she made some really interesting points. she is lovely and well spoken. thanks for sharing this with us, great learning experience for lots of us who wouldn't have the opportunity to have this chat with a qualified person personally
People seem to think bit less causes no discomfort but you must have very light hands with bit less as it's very unforgiving on the pressure inflicted on the nose!! Very informative Matt! Thank you!
Yes, I have found damaged polls from rough hands (because theres no bit, right?) on a bitless bridle, especially the cross-under type. Effectively pulling the poll from the nose and sometimes w little regard to the anatomy being impacted. So heavy hands are heavy independent of the equipment being used.
Sadly the biggest problem with bitless is people thinking if there's no bit then it won't cause any harm. And they use it way to rough because of that.
Bit or bitless, if you’re not careful you can ALWAYS hurt the horse. If you have hard hands either bit or bitless, it might/will hurt the horse. I think that bitless is better since your tool isn’t inside the horses mouth jerking around. Bitless may cause a different type of damage, but both do. However, bitless is probably more comfortable depending upon the type of bridle too.
I have been riding for 50 years and have never had such a thorough/simple explanation of bits before this video!! Thank you for pointing out you errors too, because it makes the rest of us realize we can make mistakes at any level of riding and one must always be humble and self reflective of decisions regarding our horsemanship! Matt, you are such a gentleman in your interviews. You are kind, grateful and polite to everyone you deal with. Keep making videos Matt and Jesse, I am still learning!!
If he does it would probably be a lot of hassle, because he would have to record clips for a few weeks possibly months, because it takes serious adjustment for the horse. And between Emporio and Chase, Matt would probably chose Chase to try it with.
@@charlieprice1469 I bought my horse 3 years ago and rode with a bit for maybe 3 months. One day i just took it off and we never looked back. Its not that major of an adjustment for the horse as it is for the person. Esp if you already have a strong bond with your horse.
Fun and educational video! I´ve worked in a horse shop and taken courses for fitting horse equipment. It would be fun to see a video about your saddle, specialy since he´s so young and gaining muscles. Thanks for a great channel!
Woooah, thank you. I always struggle with fitting the bit and the bridle. Now I know what I should look out for 😊Fitting the saddle is one and obvious thing, but it’s the first time I see a specialist fitting bits.. I guess it’s still a phenomenon in Poland
Good question, @@reesew4614. No more fuss. No more head toss. No more resistance. No more ill attitudes. For a specific example, it was an immediate game changer for my normally rank mare. She is now soft in the bridle and eager to work. All were vetted for issues and the only conclusion drawn was the need for a bit change. I swear by it.
I completely agree with what you’ve said in your comment. Not all bits are bad, and not all bitless bridles are good! Its up to the horse, and what they suit best! Very educational video, thanks Matt :)
Since nearly 8 years now i only use bits from sprenger. They’re not cheap, but worth every penny, since they’re the only ones i found that have solutions for every horse and size! 🙏🏻🤗
You never disappoint me always trying g to do the right thing for your horse. Emporio is being such a patient and good boy. He is so beautiful. Thank you for sharing this experience.
I was extremely happy to see this video title! I'm very happy with the information. It is definitely going to help me find a good fit for my 4 year old I'm just starting. ❤️🤗🐎 Thank you for your channel. You are so amazing to watch. 🦄 ❤️😉
@@lorimitchell9025 no actually, I think you'll find bitless can actually do far more damage than bits. Also, starting a horse off bitless is a very stupid thing to do, unless they absolutely cannot stand a bit. Because A. It's quite confusing for young horses, never mind green ones. B. If your horse is prone to bolting or being strong it can cause serious injuries, and C. Your opinion shouldn't matter, the horse's history concerning their dental work and veterinary work and their own comfort matters. Many horses will choose bits over bitless any day.
Great job starting your horse at 4 years old! Unfortunately, too many people start them at 2 or 3 and their bones aren't even finished growing until they're 5! It's nice to see people putting their horses first and waiting until they are ready to be ridden. Good luck with your horse!
@@venla4699 I don't know who taught you, but you've been taught wrong. The only bits created to cause pain are bike chain bits, thorn bits, long shanked bits, American Tom Thumbs or Saw Mouth bits, and I'm pretty sure almost all of them are American. Bitless bridles months other hand, we're created to work through pain avoidance, think of that next time you be a keyboard warrior.
yes Matt try bitless, I know its a process, it can be hard and scary and as you said everyone should do what works best for the horse . Love seeing how much you care for your horses!
I'm so pleased he did this video. I've lost count of how many ill fitting uncomfortable bits I've seen on horses over the years and all it takes is education and the will to do better by your horse. This was great!
I am amazed at the education needed for bits! We had the smooth round bits-but they were picked by the original trainers-not my family. I like thinking they May have been anatomically sound. If I were still riding I’d have liked to ride bitless unless doing Eventing.
Im planning on buying a horse again after I get out of nursing school. I have been out of the horse world for about five years and sold my dear horse to be able to go to school. these videos are helping me gain some education about important things like this that I may have forgotten. great vid
This video came in really handy since I’m looking for a new bit for my horse too! Thanks a lot for that :) If you will ever be looking for a new bridle could you please make a video about how to fit or choose the correct bridle for your horse? And again thanks a lot for your great content 🤪
Kiki and Powniess check out PS of Sweden for bridles! They are expensive but if you can’t get one they have some interesting descriptions on which type of horse suits which bridle...
Bridles are easier than bits. Plenty of room for the ears, a few holes left for the cheeks, and a neat fitting throat latch. A really nice bridle that is a bit big, you can always get the buckles shifted.
My gelding is in a 5 inch Waterford full cheek snaffle. He’s got quite a thin tongue, and doesn’t take up much space so the Waterford bubbles arent Pressing him all the time. He fights any pressure on the roof of his mouth, but is fine with tongue and bar pressure. He leaned in a single jointed, and now is amazing. We are working very nice now’
Oh my gosh! What a sweet boy. I am so impressed that such a young horse and a stallion was so patient. Kudo's to you Matt! You are doing a fabulous job with him.
Enjoying your videos as always, and it was nice to see Emporio is so relaxed with you and he looks so beautiful! Yes, I immediately thought that the 2nd bit was more ideal for him and had a better fit than the first one.Thanks, Matt & Jesse for sharing all these videos of your life's journey with us!!
I thought he took the whole thing extremely well. When you change a bit, the horse crunches and gets to know it. The double linked ones are much softer, he was testing it out, see what he could do with it.
Hi Matt, I live in American and it is our 4th of July today. Our Independence from the British - 1776. Lots of fire works down at the White House in Washington DC this evening. "Just Saying" I want to say again that I have really enjoy watching your videos and for you to take the time to share with all of us the information and the details on bits for Emporio, but that women was making him unhappy even though he was trying to be good. I think these horse videos are educational and important for all who have horses.
Thank you Matt. This was a very good video, she pointed out some very interesting information regarding the the ergo shape of the bits and I've yet to see anyone explain it so simply. Keep up the good work.
I was a little late in getting to this video, I'm so glad I didn't miss it entirely. This was so interesting and the young lady was so easily understandable. I wish I'd had access to her knowledge 45 years ago when I had a Cross Country Race horse of my own and Gymkhana and Trails horses for my kids. I tried hard to make life for my animals comfortable and fun. Finding a proper bit would have been so much easier with better info from the tack and equipment places I frequented. A little late for me, I know, but it's never to late to learn. Thanks for this video, for all your videos actually. Tell Jesse hello too. GB
Hey Matt, i really enjoyed this Video. It is very informative and you can learn something new. I use the Sprenger KK Ultra bit and almost every horse likes it. Kind regards from germany
Bitting is such an important and interesting theme. I personally prefer bits to bit less as chewing has direct control of the relaxation of the horse, and I can therefore influence it extremely efficiently over the bit. But finding the right bit is so important. A well-schooled horse should still always be able to go in a snaffle (the thickness may vary). But I have to admit that I love riding in a double as you can be extremely fine and precise in your aids. It also allows you more variety in your classical flexions, which are fundamental to me.
Only me who prefers straight bits? They are much more still in the horse’s mouth and my trotter prefers that! I really try to listen to my horse when it comes to bits. I myself ride with a Pelham bit at the moment just to help my horse since he is a trotter and he’s never been on a paddock! 😊 love your videos! This is a great and educational video it’s really good for everyone who doesn’t really know much about bits!❤️
Excellent choice!! I have ended up using a Sprenger Dynamic RS on both my PRE Stallions, and KK on my Lusitano and Warmblood.... Really interesting to see such an experienced fitter!
I love Emporio. I always wonder what a horse is thinking/taking in, in any given situation. The minute details makes such a huge difference. Wonderfully interesting.
Very helpful information and well explained. I love the Sprenger turnado bit for my horses. They fit perfectly and there is a good connection to horses‘ mouth.
Hello another great video I will confess I don't have a horse but I love watching your videos I would love to have one but can't but I get to see you and Jesse and all of your horses and the way you take good care of them . Wish more people would do the same but you I think are making a difference
A bit's purpose to to cause pain and pressure in the mouth. No matter what type. Its all about the severity of pressure each bit educes. Its amazing that there are equine riders that can communicate to a horse in direction and performance by a bit less bridle man! I know the horses appreciate it. But with bits soft hands as much as possible. I think people, hell me too should put a bit in their mouth made for people to better understand how uncomfortable or painful each can be. Learning about horse behavior first I've learned it truly the way to know your horse and anticipate them in their own body language. No different with other animals. Labeling it "horse whispering" is a front or bull sh**t. Anyone can do it. I love animal behavior I want to learn as much as I can to better myself and therefore communicate with horses through riding or not riding.
A bit was made for pressure, not pain. Bitless bridles also work on pressure, any type of riding works on pressure, but there is a big difference between good and bad pressure. Bitless can be worse and is easier to use for pain than with a bit. The nose can't handle as much pressure as the tongue can, meaning a horse going bitless will feel pain quicker than a horse on a bit. Comparing a human mouth to a horse mouth is ridiculous, they're built differently, and people who have actually put bits in their mouth and pulled back even said there was no pain. Use what's best for your horse, every horse is different, some don't like bits or some don't like bitless. I myself prefer bits but have rode in a bitless bridle.
Thank you for this very informative video, I usually rode in what we call a Beetle Hackamore here, basically a hackamore created for barrel racing and the like. It is nice to have a great easy to understand video for fitting a bit because there is no guarantee that my next horse will work well with the hackamore I have, or the bit I have, so I am saving this video to help me if I should ever need it :) Also, Good gracious Emporio is so beautiful, he's such a calm stallion too, I do hope he never loses that gentleness
What a great video! Very informative and interesting. Emporio is looking very majestic, that neck curve is really showing now, he is growing into a wonderful young Stallion.
Good training and teaching the horse to give easily to pressure makes bits easier to use. Bits are a communication piece and should not be used for harsh control. In my humble opinion and training experience if you have to use a harsh long shank bit with your horse, you should go back to the ground and teach your horse to give to pressure then try a softer bit again. Doing Lateral flex correctly on the ground with a halter and then vertical flex on the ground first and correctly WILL help with your horses reaction to any bit. If you are unsure what correct lateral or vertical flex is please ask for help. It is important to release pressure at the correct time in order for horses to learn. Thanks Matt for this video it confirmed the technical side that I have tested on my own. I always like to watch you and your friends in all the videos you do. Bye the way, I bought a trick training book because of you and your silly friends. I know it will be very fun to try extra fun stuff with the horses too young yet to ride and the older ones that already know it all plus I have a pony that I think will like the extra.
Matt, I think this is one of the best videos you have done. I have a "thing" about bits, and hands. I do like a D bit, which this new one is. and also a real egg butt, with the rings egg shaped and not round. The bit then hangs in the mouth more horizontally. But we can do even better. Remember the FM? With little tabs which held the mouthpiece horizontal? An ordinary ring snaffle hangs vertically, encouraging the horse to try his tongue over it. Remember the Spanish snaffle or Kimblewick? I preferred these, would take the curb hooks off a jointed one, and use it as a snaffle, same thing really as the FM, mouth piece horizontal. Now there is a new one, the Baucher, with various mouth pieces, ordinary jointed, double like this new one of yours, and also one with a roller, sort of loose-ish but it cannot fold up and pinch. No idea if it is dressage-approved, but it is a snaffle. I use one, it solved a lot of (someone else's) issues. The strap on the (is it Hanoverian?) noseband is to prevent the mouth opening, the tongue going over, and those sorts of avoidance habits some horses develop. We used to see the "dropped noseband" but I've never had to use either, gets back to the right bit and light hands. I'd rather see them gone. Congratulations. Emporio has a lovely temperament. Sorry to hear he has been sore. If you can ride out, take him for some long slow walk and jog rides so he can relax and you can enjoy each-other. Thank you for this video.
I sat here chuckling to myself. I love the way young girls look at Matt as if they are going to melt.lol. I really enjoyed learning about the different bits for horses. Thank you for posting.
rachel wright maybe for others it’s easy to have done. But for me it’s not. The only bit fitters are the other side of the country. One is like 8 hours away and the other is close to 16 hours away. Both expensive flights. Try living in a 3rd world country where everything is hellishly expensive.
Random Stranger lol. I’ve gone from average 5 inch horse mouths to a 4.5 inch for my mare and the big ones for my new boy. I spent my last cent just getting him to my stable yard so yeah 😅 trying to save up for a bit fitter. Luckily I know what shape he needs, but the size needs to be perfect. If it’s too big he’s grumpy, if it’s too small and pinches then he rears. So yeah, atm he’s going in a hackamore (even though he’s not happy with it).
Emporio was so over it, still chill for a young stallion but seemed slightly agitated. Guess I'd be too if someone kept put things in mouth. The rep from Sprenger was excellent.
he was not uncomfortable because of the bits. He is a young horse, and young horses find it hard to stand very still with no entertainment for long periods of time. He was not in pain from the bit, nor uncomfortable.
Love that not only have got a great education and truely interesting video, now we also know how to mesure a bit and wont be in the same situation Matt was in 🤣😅
I did 2 bit fittings for my own horse, twice. The size of their lips also influence the size of the bit. My horse has BIG lips so a big bit left no room for him. We tried many on, and the horse then shows which he likes best. Most people assume that smaller bits are sharper, but that doesnt have to be true if the horse doesnt have the SPACE in the mouth to fit a bigger one. It really depends on the shape of the mouth, as well as the rider. For my horse, he loved a tiny double jointed bit but a year later I did another fitting where he chose one of those white rubbery sticks if you know what I mean. Now I just looked at it and every few weeks if he were to let me know that he didnt like it anymore, I'd change depending on how he reacted to it. Moral of the story is: get a KNOWLEDGABLE bit fitter, and TRY them out while riding, switch them a few times within the same ride so you can feel the difference and your horse can help you pick. Also: Do not believe descriptions off informational sites on their face value, not every small bit has to be a sharp bit. If it doesn't fit your horses mouth, it's fine to go with a less thick but without it then instantly being "omg what a sharp bit". ♥ I hope everyone takes this into consideration. Happy riding, everyone!!!
@@elizabetheventing3827 my horse is way past that, his old bit was a sweet iron copper lozenge European Tom Thumb. A French link loose ring hasn't quite got the stopping power he needs.
@@venla4699 do I look like I want to break my horse's nose? No, I do not, he won't tolerate any pressure on his nose or poll, to the point where I've had to buy a bridle with a set back head piece to completely avoid his poll. And head collars he wears has to be tied loose as to not touch his poll, or someone is at risk of being kicked in the head.
If you decide going bit less I highly recommend making your own bit less bridle. The commercial ones are very painful for horses or give confusing aides. At least that is the way it is here in Canada. All you do is take the cavesson (bridle nose band and head piece) and attach the reins to the noseband and head piece joint. Fit the nose band snuggly so it doesn’t rub the nose raw or cover the nose section with halter fleece. You now have a bit less bridle from tack in your tack room.
Not a fan of bits, but I'm glad that this video has educated me on different types of bit and how they aren't all as invasive and 'Abusive' as some equestrians make them out to be. Awesome video.
