About Horse Bridles

Without exception, the bridle is one of the most important instruments you will ever own as a horse rider. The bridle was developed as a way for the rider to maintain absolute control over their mount. There are several different types of bridles on the market and accomplish different things, but they all have some things in common.

Two Distinct Types of Bridles

Just like saddles, bridles can be divided into two general categories:

• Western Bridles. Two types of western bridles include the browband headstall and the one-eared headstall. The one –eared headstall is typically used on more delicate faces such as the Arabian. The browbands and ear bands work with the throatlatches to keep the bridle in place on the horse.


• English Bridle. This bridle is a little more complicated due to the fact it is designed for more control. This bridle includes a noseband, throatstrap and cheekstrap.

How does a Bridle Work?

The bridle made demanding work possible between man and horse. Men could now ask the horse to do work and perform tasks that could not have been possible prior to bridles. Sharper turns, quicker stops and even backing up were all moves that came about due to the bridle.

The bridle is integral in holding the bit in place. Whether a rider chooses to use a mouth bit or a hackamore, the headstall or bridle holds this piece of tack in place and helps it to accomplish its job. The bit applies pressure to the horse’s mouth, poll, tongue, chin and cheek to control the horse. The bridle secures the bit to the horse's head to maintain that control. The horse learns to react to the pressure that the bit and bridle exert on these sensitive areas of the horse’s mouth. With time and proper training, the horse soon requires much less pressure and will anticipate the next command with only slight pressure on the bit and bridle.