Bit Academy – choose the right bit for your horse

The ByLynga Bit Academy explains bit size, fit, mouthpieces, cheekpieces, materials and competition rules. Start with the horse’s anatomy and current equipment, change one important feature at a time and assess the response.

Start here – size and fit

• How to measure the correct bit size
• How should a horse bit fit?
• Choosing the first bit for a young horse

Mouthpieces and cheekpieces

• Single- or double-jointed bits
• Straight horse bits
• Fixed or loose rings
• Guide to bit cheekpieces

Materials

• Complete bit material guide
• Leather bits – function, fit and care
• Sweet Iron – taste, oxidation and care
• Titanium bits – lightweight and taste-neutral

Horse-specific questions

• Bits for a sensitive mouth
• Bits for a sensitive tongue
• When the horse becomes strong in the hand

Competition rules

• Belgian and FEI competition rules hub
• Dressage bits in Belgium
• Jumping bits in Belgium
• Eventing bits in Belgium

Products and accessories

• Explore all ByLynga horse bits

Seek qualified professional advice if your horse shows pain, sores or a sudden change in behaviour.

More practical guides

• How to choose a horse bit
• How thick should a bit be?
• How to care for horse bits

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers about bit size, fit, materials, Belgian competition rules, delivery and returns.

Open the FAQs

New in-depth guides

• Tongue relief and tongue room in horse bits
• Pelham, Kimblewick or Beval?
• Signs a horse bit does not fit

More guides to choosing and fitting bits

• Horse mouth anatomy and choosing a bit
• Baucher, D-ring or Fullcheek?
• Curb chains on horse bits – function and fit
• Horse bit materials compared
• Bits for ponies and small horse mouths

Guides by discipline and riding style

Explore bit choice, fit, training and rules across more disciplines.

• Working Equitation – bits, training and competition rules
• Bits for Icelandic horses – gaits, fit and rules
• Bits for endurance riding – comfort and control
• Pony and youth competition – bits and safety
• Mounted Games – bits, control and rules
• Para dressage – bits, aids and rules
• Academic riding – cavesson, snaffle and curb
• Retraining trotters – choosing a bit
• Retraining racehorses – a bit guide
• Equestrian vaulting – equipment, bits and rules
• Bitless riding – options, action and fit

Key points

• Start with oral health, anatomy and correct fit.
• Assess width, height, thickness, mouthpiece and cheekpieces as one system.
• Change only one important factor at a time where possible.
• Stop using the equipment if there are wounds, pain or clear distress.

How to evaluate in practice

1. Record the current equipment and the horse’s response.
2. Check teeth, oral tissues, bridle and bit.
3. Test changes first in a calm, safe environment.
4. Observe bridling, swallowing, contact, steering and behaviour.
5. Check the corners of the mouth and oral tissues after riding.

Frequently asked questions

Is there one solution for every horse?

No. Oral anatomy, training, the rider’s hands and intended use vary. Individual fit is decisive.

How long should a change be tested?

If the horse is comfortable and safe, several short sessions provide better evidence than one trial. Stop immediately if pain or injury appears.

When is professional help needed?

Consult a veterinarian for wounds, swelling, sudden behavioural change or suspected dental problems.

Rules and safety

For competition, always check the latest rules of Horse Sport Ireland and the FEI TackApp where applicable. A product name alone does not prove eligibility.

General information does not replace an individual examination. Last fact-checked: 7 September 2026.