I’m asking because so many people in the English equestrian community are so snobby lol. Some of the opinions I’ve heard seem to say it’s fine as long as it fits, but some people say it’s borderline abuse to not have a custom one. And I’m just wondering what your opinion is?
I want to try using a hacklemore bridle instead of a traditional bit and bridle, I’m not scared to take him bitless since I trust my horse, but I also don’t want to confuse him since I don’t think he’s ever tried one. What’s your favorite way to introduce something new like this to your horse? (Also I do plan on getting him a custom one for the most comfortable fit)
Edit: English is hard guys 😭 sorry I spelled it wrong
(⬆️ my baby so cute lol) So I’ve had my ootb for about 4-ish weeks now and we are doing great together (he is 8 years old not fresh of the track and has prior training) but I’ve noticed he gets very tense in his back when the reins are pulled, I actually got to witness it the other day when my trainer rode him and I got to watch him tense all the way up and relax the second she dropped them. I don’t know if I’m explaining this well (not tugging on his mouth he has a very mild bit too) and he’s had a vet visit and she said it’s not a pain issue, so I’ve consulted a equine therapist and she believes it’s a trauma feeling from a experience. So I’m going to try to just ditch the bit entirely. I’ve bought a dr cook bit less bridle off of FB and the person also has a ootb they said that it is amazing and she was dealing with a lot of head tossing with the bit and her horse responds much better than with a normal bridle, the only reason she’s selling it is because she bought the wrong size initially but she’s had the right size for 6 months now and loves it. I’m not just going off her recommendation I’ve wanted to try bitless for a while , I haven’t picked it up yet but I’m just wondering if anyone other thoroughbred owners have tried them or similar! Please comment! I’ll try to update if it helps! Thanks