Bridle Fitting

Bridle Fitting - FAQs

Why should I get my bridle fitted professionally? 

• Bridle fit is equally as important as saddle fit although this is not yet so widely recognised by riders and owners. If the bridle is not the right size and design for the horse this will put pressure on sensitive areas and can cause pain and stress which will lead to a drop in performance and could cause behavioural issues. There are several important points on the head which must be taken into consideration.  Recent research into bridle fit has shown that the bridle affects the horse as much as the saddle. 

I bought a bridle off the peg but I'm not sure if it really fits my horse. Can you do anything to improve it? 

• As every horse is different we nearly always find with off the peg complete bridles that one part will fit but another will not. This is why we make up bridles for each horse from individual parts rather than selling a complete bridle in one size. 

• We will need to see the bridle on your horse to be able to tell if it is possible to alter it to improve the fit. It may be possible to make some adjustments and alterations depending on the design. However if there are alterations to the stitching this will negate any warranty from the manufacturer, so if the leather is not top quality we may advise against this. 

What will happen during my bridle fit? 

• We will record details and history of your horse.

• We will make a detailed assessment of your horse's head and mouth conformation noting any asymmetry and other individual features. 

• If you want a check of existing bridle we will assess the conditionof the bridle, and then assess the fit on the horse. We will then make adjustments as far as possible, and recommend any alteration work that may be needed, or if in fact you need to change your bridle. If alteration work is appropriate we will take your bridle back to the workshop to complete this work. 

• If you are looking for a new bridle we can offer either Fairfax or Bliss bridles made from component parts. These brands are both made in the U.K. from English bridle leather. We will make up a bridle to fit your horse which you will ride in to try. In this case we usually ask you to warm up in your existing bridle before trying the new bridle. 

• Alternatively, we can make a bridle specially for your horse. If you are looking for a made to measure bridle we will take measurements and make detailed notes of your requirements as well as recommended designs to suit your horse and chosen discipline. 

What about my bit? Do you offer bit fitting? 

• We can advise you on the size and fit of your bit and can suggest different designs to try if you are having bit problems. We do not currently stock bits for sale though. Remember when it comes to bits, of course it must be the right size and we can recommend bits to try, but the horse decides, and a bit trial may take several weeks of riding to know for sure if it suits.

What brands of bridles do you stock?

• We make bespoke bridles. These are entirely handstitched from top quality Sedgewick's English bridle butt. We can make any style and size.

• We stock Fairfax and Bliss bridles and we fit both these brands to each individual horse by selecting each part to suit. 

How can I pay?

• Cash

• Card. We have a mobile card reader and you can pay by card as long as we have a signal.

• BACS. But please don't forget! 

I still have a question. Can you help? 

• We are here to help. Contact us by messenger, email or phone if you have any further questions.