We talk a lot about horse bits in terms of brand and design, but far less about whether the bit is actually working for the horse in front of us. Many contact issues I see during a horse bit fitting appointment are not about strength, but about comfort and clarity.
Here are five common signs that something isn’t quite right.
Tongue Over the Bit
This is one of the most obvious evasions. It’s often blamed on naughtiness or “a clever horse”, but in reality it usually points to discomfort, instability or confusion. There are many reasons the horse may do this, it can be bit pressure, inconsistent aids, lack of education, bridle fit and perhaps physical issues. Before reaching for stronger equipment, it’s worth asking why the horse feels the need to escape the contact.
Leaning or Feeling Heavy
A horse that leans isn’t always strong. Sometimes they are simply trying to find stability. If the bit is unstable in the mouth, too narrow, too wide or not suited to their conformation, leaning can be a way of coping rather than resisting.
Inconsistent Contact
Does the contact feel good one day and difficult the next? Does the horse back off suddenly, or alternately grab hold and then disappear? Inconsistent contact is often a sign that something in the setup isn’t quite right. That could be bit fit, bridle fit or training stage
Resistance in Transitions
If upward or downward transitions regularly involve head tossing, opening the mouth or tension, that’s information. Transitions ask the horse to rebalance. If the bit is uncomfortable or unclear, that’s often when it shows up.
A Change in Behaviour
Sometimes the change is subtle. A horse that was previously happy starts becoming tense in the warm up. Or perhaps they’ve moved up a level in training and things suddenly feel harder. Horses rarely resist without reason.
None of these signs automatically mean the bit is “wrong”. But they do mean something needs assessing properly rather than guessed at. A structured horse bit fitting looks at the whole picture. Mouth conformation, bridle fit, training stage and how the horse goes under saddle.
If you’re based in Kent or the South East, I offer in person mobile horse bit fitting appointments.
If you’re further afield and can’t access a local fitter, I also offer structured remote consultations so you’re not left guessing. More information can be found here: Remote Horse Bit fitting Consultation – Equine Bitting Solutions
Either way, the aim is the same. Comfort, clarity and better communication between horse and rider.
