A Bit and Bridle fitting session is designed to be calm, thorough, and tailored to your horse’s individual needs. Here’s what you can expect on the day of your appointment:
1. Arrival & Initial Discussion
We begin with a short chat about your horse’s history, workload, any behavioural changes, and any specific concerns you may have noticed. This helps build a clear picture before any hands-on assessment begins.
2. Physical Assessment of Head and Oral Anatomy
What Does the Physical Assessment of the Head and Mouth Involve?
The physical assessment is a gentle, systematic examination carried out to understand your horse’s individual anatomy and how this affects bit and bridle choice.
External head assessment
Ruth assesses the overall shape and symmetry of the head and jaw, including:
Width and alignment of the jaw
Muscle development and tension
Poll and cheek areas
Signs of pressure, rubbing, or restriction from tack
Oral examination
With the horse relaxed and handled quietly, the mouth is examined to assess:
Tongue size, shape, and thickness
Palate height and width
Bars of the mouth
Lip shape and sensitivity
Available space within the mouth
Movement and function
The way the jaw moves and how the horse uses their tongue is observed, looking for:
Restrictions or asymmetry
Signs of discomfort or avoidance
How the horse naturally carries the mouth and jaw
Tack-related findings
Any areas of sensitivity or conformation that may influence bit stability, pressure distribution, or bridle fit are noted.
The assessment is always carried out calmly and with the horse’s comfort as a priority. The findings guide informed, fair bit and bridle choices that support clear communication, comfort, and long-term soundness.
3. Ridden Assessment
The ridden assessment looks at how the bit and bridle function when the horse is in work, and how the horse responds to the rider’s aids in real time.
Observation of way of going
Ruth observes the horse’s general way of going, including:
Rhythm, relaxation, and willingness to go forward
Balance and straightness
Contact and connection
Head and neck carriage
Response to the bit:
Attention is given to how the horse responds to rein aids, such as:
Acceptance of the contact
Stability of the bit in the mouth
Signs of resistance, tension, or discomfort
Clarity and softness of communication
Bridle function in movement
The bridle is assessed while the horse is moving to check:
Stability and balance of the bridle
Pressure points at the poll, cheeks, and jaw
Whether adjustments improve comfort and clarity
Rider influence
Ruth may also look at the rider’s position, balance, and use of the aids, identifying whether small changes could improve the horse’s comfort and understanding.
Adjustments and trials
Where appropriate, adjustments to fit or alternative bits may be tried and reassessed under saddle to compare the horse’s response.
The ridden assessment is not about judging performance. It is a practical, supportive process aimed at improving comfort, understanding, and harmony for both horse and rider.
4. Clear Feedback Throughout
5. Aftercare & Recommendations
Following the appointment, you’ll receive tailored report
Horses oral anatomy and findings
Details of sizing
Details of where to purchase
Management suggestions to support ongoing comfort
When a follow-up may be beneficial
6. Time Required
A full session usually lasts 90 minutes, depending on:
The horse’s age
Their comfort level
Any areas needing extra attention