Bit Fitting Andalusians and PRE type horses with Loren Wellings
Andalusians and PRE type horses are usually described to me as sensitive in the contact. They are expressive and can busy in the contact. Sometimes this confuses the equestrian enthusiast on how to find the most ideal bit. In most cases, the responses the horse gives are not behavioural. They are directly influenced by how the bit interacts with the horse’s mouth and its balance - narrowing back down to conformation.
Many Andalusians present with a fuller tongue, a lower or average palate, and a compact oral space. Bulk, height, or excessive movement within the mouthpiece can then create discomfort quickly, even in bits commonly labelled as mild.
The focus is on clarity, stability, and a seamless feel.
Bit Styling to consider:
Low profile mouthpieces - Thick mouthpieces and high ports often overcrowd the mouth. Slim, anatomically curved designs create space through shape rather than height.
Seamless or near seamless links - Sharp hinges and pronounced eyelet joints can cause pressure on a fleshy tongue. Seamless links distribute pressure evenly and feel continuous rather than mechanical.
Stability over movement - Loose, rotating mouthpieces often create unnecessary noise in the contact. Fixed cheeks help stabilise the bit and support consistent communication.
Even pressure without backward leverage - Backwards locking actions can encourage the contact to run through the hand and promote neck shortening. Mouthpieces with a downward locking action better support length through the neck and allow the rider to maintain a forward, elastic contact.
Bit styles commonly suited to Andalusians
• Anatomically curved mullen or soft bar mouthpieces
• Double jointed bits with seamless or flattened center links
• Fixed cheek designs, eggbutt
• Slim bradoons for double bridles with low profile curvature
• High quality synthetic double jointed bits for sensitive mouths
Examples include styles comparable to Fager Oliver Fixed Cheek, Fager Mattias Fixed Cheek, Fager Michael Fixed Cheek, Turtle Top bradoons, and carefully designed synthetic double joints that prioritise stability and anatomical shape.
Styles generally avoided
• Excessively thick mouthpieces (16mm and above)
• High ports used to artificially create space
• Loose rings that introduce movement
• Mouthpieces with dramatic squeeze (fold back) action that raises the neck posture
• Over bitting horses that are expressive rather than strong
The outcome of correct fitting
When an Andalusian is correctly bitted, the contact becomes quieter, the neck remains longer, and self carriage improves without restriction. Expression is retained, but tension is reduced. At this level, the bit does not create the outline. It supports the horse in maintaining balance
- Loren Wellings, owner at Horse Bit Emporium
Comments will be approved before showing up.
Designed to stabilise the contact and improve steering, the full cheek bit is a go to for young horses and those needing clearer direction.
"A Pelham is only as strong as its mouthpiece"
Pelham bits are designed for horses that feel strong, inconsistent, or unstable in the contact, where a change in mouthpiece alone is not enough.
A practical guide to choosing the right bit for Australian Ponies, including what to look for, signs of discomfort, and the best bits for sensitive ponies needing comfort and consistent contact.