riding bitless

 
...Tombiz, in his Micklem...

He was strong, likely testing the new contraption, but happy and relaxed (mostly).

 

Micklem bitless...

...and now, to fit Tom's...
Henry has already tried his out, with much success.  and spring seems like time for change, so when it was Tom's turn, I was not worried at all.

 

...will let you know how he rides in it...

Henry bitless....

 
 Bitless:

It's finally happened, Henry was ridden in his new Micklem bitless configuration at the weekend.

 




Tom needs a bigger one, so his is still on order.

As you know, I've been deliberating this for ages (years actually), but I thought now's the time to make the leap.  The boys are teenagers now, and very well behaved (if a little excitable and strong).



 




My pony Brandy was ridden very successfully in a hackamore (the old-fashioned version) and he was brilliant in it. 

 

The bridle itself doesn't do-up like a regular one we're all used to, so will take a bit of getting used to.  And the leather, though obviously good quality, isn't supple yet - so the cheek pieces stand out until the leather 'learns' it needs to go through the d'ring and round a bend.


 



















We only did a quick ride, just to be on the safe side, but Henry seemed very comfortable in his new bridle.  We were able to stop, turn, reverse and fine-tune our speed too - which was my initial worry.  








 



I like to change speeds in a pace to keep them focused on me out riding, and my concern was I'd be less effective bitless - but actually the opposite was true.  





 






He responded well to the increased pressure over his face and head ( and I ride with very loose contact and soft hands - so i never ever pull them about anyway).






 



My feeling is, a good horse, will always be a good horse in spite of the equipment - and taking a bit out of the equation, not only simplifies the whole message, its so  much nicer.

I's suggest giving it a go if you're considering bitless.

...perfect