Considerations When Choosing a Bridle for Your Horse

Choosing a bridle for your horse can be a big decision and there are many products on the market to choose from. In order to buy a bridle that best suits your horse and your needs, you first need to determine what you require from your bridle and the type of bridle that you looking for.

Firstly, consider what you will be using the bridle for. What are the main activities that you do with your horse? Do you need something smart for competition or are you looking for something lightweight and durable for long rides or endurance. Do you want something of high quality that will last you for years? Perhaps comfort for your horse is high on your requirement list for your new bridle.

Once you have determined the purpose of your bridle, think about the style of bridle that you are looking for. Consider the ability and character of your horse. Do you need a standard snaffle bridle, with or without a noseband or are you looking for a double bridle? What are your noseband requirements? Do you need a flash or grackle noseband? or just a plain cavesson? Do you need a noseband at all? Perhaps you are looking for something a little flashier with a diamante design for special occasions or maybe you are looking for a bitless bridle?

Thirdly, consider your other requirements. How much money do you have to spend on your new bridle? The amount of money that you have available to buy your new bridle will affect the style and quality of bridle that you can get. Are you looking for something that will wipe clean after a long day riding out, in which case perhaps a synthetic bridle would suit you. Or is it important to you to have a quality leather bridle? You will pay more money for a good quality leather bridle but it is a worthwhile investment if you can afford it as the bridle will likely last you for years and remain looking smart whilst some synthetic items can tend to look tired after a while. For competition and showing, leather is a necessity whilst for other activities, perhaps endurance, where it is important to have lightweight equipment, a synthetic bridle may be a better choice.

Now that you know the style and requirements of the bridle you are looking for you can begin to search for bridles that fit these criteria. Local tack shops might be able to suggest some suitable bridles that fit your budget and requirements or you could try searching the internet. There are many online tack shops that you can order your new bridle from, and the benefit of using the internet is that you can easily shop around to find a good deal and get the best quality that you can for your money. Finally, don't forget the golden rule when buying horse equipment; always to buy the best quality that you can afford. Happy shopping!

The Equine Store is packed full of great products for horse and rider, including quality English leather double bridles in standard sizes or made to measure. Please visit the shop at www.equine-store.com