SmartPak Monday Morning Feed: Types & Parts of Western Horse Bits

Choosing a bit can be a daunting task for many riders, but the more you know, the easier it is to make the best decision for you and your horse.

For many riders, choosing a bit can be a daunting task. If they weren’t handed a bit by their trainer or if a bit wasn’t recommended by a trusted professional, many are blind going into the bitting process. Fortunately, our good friends at SmartPak are here to help.

A few years ago, they teamed up with Robb Thomas of Reinsman Equestrian to explore the different types of western bits and when/how to use them. The result was a four-part series that dives into just that. Since we tend to be a little (okay… a lot) out there, we’re actually going to jump around a bit in the series. Today, we’ll take a look at parts one and three, which explore the types and parts of western horse bits.

This first video examines the differences between a snaffle bit, a curb bit, and a hackamore:

In the third video (which we’re presenting as the second), Thomas explains the different parts of a western horse bit and their functions. He covers terminology like the mouthpiece, port, purchase, shank, and more.

Stay tuned until next week, when we offer the next two videos in the series!

Go SmartPak and go riding!