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Breed Profiles
The BridleA dressage bridle with a flash noseband is pictured left, however, all bridles are pretty much made up of the same components. To learn more about each piece of the bridle simply click on the piece of the bridle you're interested in.
The Crownpiece
Also known as the headstall this holds the bridle on the
horse's head by being slipped behind the ears. The crown piece and the throat
latch are usually attached.
The Browband
This piece of the bridle goes across the horses forehead.
They come in all different styles especially for dressage, with different
patterns, decorations and sometimes times even rhinestones and jewels.
The Throatlatch
The throatlatch is a strap that is a part of the headstall,
It connects in a loop under the cheek. Some people believe this is a important
component in keeping the bridle on, however it is not as important as one would
think. Many western bridle's do not have a throatlatch. It is however important
that it fits the hors properly. Generally, you should be able to fit a fist
in-between the strap and your horse's head.
The Cheekpiece
The cheekpiece runs along the cheek, and connects the bit to
the headstall. These pieces are very adjustable, entirely detachable. You can
even buy them separately at a tack shop, if one should break, and need to be
replaced.
The Noseband
Nosebands loop around the nose, and have a strap the goes
through the browband, and slides over the ears with the headstall. They come in
many different styles. The noseband is supposed to be fitted 1 to 2 inches (2-3
fingers) below the cheekbone. The Noseband pictured as an extra strap which goes
down and is buckled in front of the bit, this particular type is called a flash
nose band. Nosebands come in many different types, depending on what you need to
help your horse.
The Bit
The bit is a piece, traditionally metal, which slides into
the horses mouth, and connects from the reins to the bridle. There are many
different bits, and the one you choose depends on your discipline, the job and
your horse are trying to do, your horse's behavior, and your riding.
The Reins
The reins are attached to the bit and held in the riders
hands. Reins too, come in many different styles and types, the one you chose is
mainly based on personal preferance.