For higher dressage
Double bridles
The double bridle, or curb bit for short, is used in advanced dressage. This bridle has one more cheek strap than the normal snaffle to attach the additional curb bit. A double bridle never has a locking strap.
Double bridles are available in various designs: with varnish, with glitter piping, white lining or classic plain black.
What is a double bridle needed for?
One of the goals in dressage and in equestrian sport as a whole is to have a fine influence and almost invisible aids. A double bridle can help to ride highly demanding lessons with minimal influence.
It goes without saying that a double bridle is not suitable for a novice rider or for a rider whose seat is not yet balanced, whose rein aids cannot be given independently of the seat or with an unsteady hand.
A double bridle should also not be used on young and inexperienced horses.
Structure & action of a double bridle
In contrast to a snaffle bit, a double bridle is characterised by the following features:
- Two cheek pieces - so that the bar bit can be buckled in alongside the single or double jointed bit of the bridle.
- The cheek pieces are buckled into the upper tree and the curb reins into the lower tree of the bit.
- A curb chain is also part of a double bridle and is hooked into the upper beam on the right and left.
- The snaffle bit then lies in the horse's mouth behind the double bridle bit.
In competition sport, tests from elementary (L) level upwards are held with both double bridles and snaffles. In the higher M and S classes, the double bridle is often the prescribed bridle, although more and more medium and advanced classes can also be ridden with a snaffle. The rider is then given the choice of which bridle to use.
In addition to the differences between a double bridle and a snaffle, there are also similarities, although these mostly relate to the design and appearance. The double bridle models are available in either classic black or stylish brown. All pieces are made of high-quality leather and are very well made. Visually, the available curbs vary between flat and round sewn, are available in a patent look or with rhinestone-studded browbands. Well-known bridle and curb bit manufacturers include Schockemöhle Sports, Busse, Kavalkade and Passier.
What is the curb maturity?
A double bridle, used with a soft and yielding hand, can be a very good aid for developing a perfect upright position and for refining collected lessons. A double bridle should only be used when both partners - horse and rider - are ready for it.
A rider reaches the so-called curb bit maturity when he is able to influence his horse with an independent and relaxed seat in all gaits. A horse is ready for the curb bit when it is balanced and has learnt to stretch safely towards the bit and remain supple during the lessons. There should also already be a certain basic willingness to collect.