Pelham Bits Explained | Baby Pelham vs Pelham
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 Pelham is only as strong as its mouthpiece" - Bomber Nel, Bombers Bits
A Pelham combines snaffle and curb action in one bit. This allows influence over the mouth, poll, and chin via the curb chain. When the curb engages, the leverage encourages the horse to lower the head, soften through the neck, and work in a more rounded outline.
The Pelham creates a more “framed” feeling, making it particularly useful for horses that lift through the neck, lean, or run through the hand.
Pelham bits can be used with two reins, or with a Pelham rounding, depending on rider preference.
With two reins:
• The top rein (large ring) acts as a snaffle
• The bottom rein (small ring) engages the curb and leverage
This setup allows precise control over how much leverage is applied.
With a Pelham rounding, both actions are combined into one rein, offering a simpler setup while still maintaining the benefits of the bit.
Baby Pelham vs Pelham – What’s the difference?
The key difference is the shank length, measured from the mouthpiece down. The longer the shank, the greater the leverage.
Baby Pelham (5cm shank):
• Engages quickly
• Milder overall pressure
• More forgiving if the rein is held
• Ideal starting point for most horses
Standard Pelham (7cm shank):
• Slower to engage, but stronger once activated
• Greater leverage through poll and curb chain
• Suited to horses that still feel strong in a Baby Pelham
Most riders begin with a Baby Pelham, then move to a standard Pelham if additional braking power or influence is required.
Why choose a Pelham?
A Pelham is well suited to horses that:
• Feel strong or heavy in the hand
• Become inconsistent in the contact
• Travel high in the neck or against the rein
• Require support to rebalance without increasing mouthpiece severity
Rather than increasing severity through the mouthpiece, a Pelham redistributes pressure through leverage and the curb chain to encourage balance and softness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Pelham a harsh bit?
No. The effect comes from leverage and curb chain engagement, which is controlled by the rider. When used correctly, it is a balanced and effective option.
Should a Pelham be used with one rein or two?
Two reins provide greater precision. Or a Pelham rounding offers a milder alternative.
When should a Baby Pelham be used instead of a standard Pelham?
A Baby Pelham is recommended as the starting point. A standard Pelham is used if more influence is required.
Will a Pelham help lower a horse’s head?
Yes. Engagement of the curb applies pressure to the poll and chin groove, encouraging the horse to lower and soften through the neck.
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