What is a snaffle bit and how is it used for horseback riding?

What Is a Snaffle Bit? How It Works, Different Types, & How to Use One

Michelle Drum

The snaffle bit is a staple of English horse tack, used for its straightforward design and clear communication. It’s the go-to bit for just about every discipline, from dressage to show jumping. But here’s the catch: just because it’s simple doesn’t mean it’s foolproof. Using the wrong type or not fully understanding how it works can lead to misuse. In this article, we’ll break down how snaffle bits work, explore different types, and show you how to use one in a way that’s effective for you and comfortable for your horse.

What is a snaffle bit?

A snaffle bit is an English horse bit that sits in the horse’s mouth and provides direct pressure to the lips, tongue, and bars of the mouth, allowing the rider to communicate with the horse through rein aids. Unlike curb bits, snaffle bits do not use leverage, making them generally gentler on a horse’s mouth. For this reason, snaffle bits are commonly used by riders of all levels and disciplines.

Snaffle bits are designed with rings on either side of the mouthpiece, which can be loose or fixed to a cheekpiece. Variations in the mouthpiece—such as its material, thickness, shape, and texture—affect the way pressure is applied. The type of rings, such as loose ring, D-ring, eggbutt, or full cheek, can also change the bit’s action and stability.

How does a snaffle bit work?

A snaffle bit works through direct pressure, meaning the horse feels exactly what the rider applies through the reins. The mouthpiece rests on the horse’s tongue and the bars of the mouth (the toothless gap on the gums), applying pressure to communicate cues. 

The rings on either side transfer rein pressure to the mouthpiece and add light pressure to the horse’s lips or cheeks. Unlike leverage bits, snaffles don’t apply pressure to the poll, keeping their action simple. 

This straightforward design allows riders to clearly communicate changes in direction, speed, or posture. Even pressure on both reins signals the horse to slow down or stop, while pressure on one rein cues a turn. 

All communication happens through the horse’s mouth, making the snaffle a tool for precise and clear cueing when used correctly. But that doesn’t mean they’re safe in just any hands—riders still need proper training to use a snaffle bit effectively and avoid causing discomfort.

Types of snaffle bits

All snaffle bits work the same way, but different types of rings and mouthpieces can influence how pressure is distributed. Factors like a horse’s age, strength, or mouth sensitivity might call for a gentler or more severe snaffle. These different types of snaffle bits vary in ring style and mouthpiece design, making them suitable for horses with different needs and preferences.

Types of snaffle bits

1. Loose ring snaffle

Trust Leather Loose Ring Straight Bit

A loose ring snaffle features freely rotating rings that aren’t fixed to the mouthpiece, allowing the bit to move independently. This flexibility prevents the horse from grabbing control, making it a popular choice for dressage and training young horses. However, it may pinch the horse’s lips—bit guards are recommended to ensure comfort and prevent pinching.

Check out the Trust Leather Loose Ring Straight Bit →

2. Full cheek snaffle

Trust Inno Sense Full Cheek Medium Port Bit

The full cheek snaffle features extended cheekpieces that prevent the bit from pulling through the mouth while applying lateral pressure to encourage rein response. Once the horse has a good understanding of the rein aids, Bit keepers can add stability, promoting better bit acceptance and forward movement into the bridle.

Check out the Trust Inno Sense Full Cheek Medium Port Bit →

3. D-ring snaffle

JP Korsteel Stainless Steel Copper Link Hunter Dee Snaffle Bit

Named for its D-shaped rings, the D-ring snaffle is a popular choice across most jumping English disciplines. Like the full cheek snaffle, it offers lateral support to encourage the horse to yield to gentle pressure, developing an understanding of the rider’s aids. This bit is available in a variety of mouthpieces, as well as D-ring styles such as barrel D, king D, and pony D.

Check out the JP Korsteel Stainless Steel Copper Link Hunter Dee Snaffle Bit →

4. Eggbutt snaffle

Toklat Copper Eggbutt Snaffle Bit

One of the gentlest and most popular English bits, the eggbutt snaffle features oval rings and a thicker mouthpiece where the rings connect. This design prevents pinching, offering stability and comfort and making it ideal for training and sensitive horses. Due to its flexibility, this bit is popular with eventers and dressage horses who spend a lot of time developing technical flatwork skills.

Check out the Toklat Copper Eggbutt Snaffle Bit →

5. Hanging cheek snaffle

Korsteel Stainless Steel Jointed Baucher Bit

Also known as the Baucher snaffle, the hanging cheek snaffle features fixed rings with cheekpieces that attach above the bit. This design applies mild poll pressure, encouraging the horse to flex at the poll and lower his head. It’s popular with dressage riders and eventers with an educated hand. Some dressage riders choose this bit when their horse is ready to graduate from a snaffle to a double bridle.

Check out the Korsteel Stainless Steel Jointed Baucher Bit →

6. Wilson snaffle

AJR Block Wilson Bit

The Wilson snaffle features four loose rings—two attached to the reins and two attached to the bridle—creating a squeezing pressure on the horse’s cheeks for better control. Its design provides excellent turning ability for strong horses, but it can be more severe and should only be used by experienced riders.

Check out the AJR Block Wilson Bit →

7. Single-jointed snaffle

Jake Adams Rubber Single Jointed Loose Ring Bit

Single-jointed snaffles apply more targeted pressure to the tongue and bars, allowing for independent rein aids. While they do provide more precise communication, pulling both reins can cause a nutcracker effect, which may pinch the tongue and irritate the palate. For less experienced riders, double-jointed snaffles offer a milder option.

Check out the Jake Adams Rubber Single Jointed Loose Ring Bit →

8. French link snaffle

JP Korsteel Stainless Steel French Link Hunter Dee Ring Snaffle Bit

The French link snaffle features a double-jointed mouthpiece with a flat, figure-eight-shaped center plate that rests across the tongue. Its rounded design allows horses with low palates to comfortably fit the bit in their mouths for a natural fit. This gentle bit encourages relaxation and acceptance, making it ideal for sensitive horses. The French link is available in various cheekpiece styles.

Check out the JP Korsteel Stainless Steel French Link Hunter Dee Ring Snaffle Bit →

9. Dr. Bristol snaffle

Toklat Dr. Bristol Hunt Dee Snaffle Bit

The Dr. Bristol snaffle resembles a French link but features a double-jointed mouthpiece with an angled center plate. Depending on rein contact, the plate can rest flat or tilt to apply sharper tongue pressure, discouraging the horse from leaning on the rider’s hands. This bit is a smart choice for horses that pull or lean mildly on the reins.

Check out the Toklat Dr. Bristol Hunt Dee Snaffle Bit →

10. Oval link snaffle

Centaur Oval Link Hunter Dee Bit

Oval link snaffles are another type of double-jointed mouthpiece with a rounded link in the center. This design puts less pressure on the tongue, making it a gentler option than a French link. Oval link snaffles offer precise communication and work well for sensitive horses.

Check out the Centaur Oval Link Hunter Dee Bit →

11. Slow twist snaffle

Centaur Slow Twist King Dee Snaffle Bit

A slow twist snaffle has a subtly twisted mouthpiece that increases pressure points for added control. Less severe than tighter twists, it’s useful for horses that lean on the bit or need more responsiveness, making it a popular choice for hunters and jumpers.

Check out the Centaur Slow Twist King Dee Snaffle Bit →

12. Corkscrew snaffle

Jake Adams Corkscrew Dee Bit

The corkscrew snaffle features tight, rounded twists along the mouthpiece, offering increased pressure for horses that lean on the bit or pull on the reins. The tighter twists increase pressure on the tongue, bars, and lips, making it more severe than a slow twist snaffle.

Check out the Jake Adams Corkscrew Dee Bit →

13. Twisted wire snaffle

Coronet Large Dee Bit with Light Twisted Wire

A twisted wire snaffle has a thin, tightly twisted steel or copper mouthpiece that applies sharp pressure on the bars and tongue. This severe bit requires skilled hands and is unsuitable for novice riders.It’s often used for experienced horses with a hard mouth tackling complex courses or horses needing retraining over fences.

Check out the Coronet Large Dee Bit with Light Twisted Wire →

14. Waterford snaffle

Waterford Dee Bit

The Waterford snaffle features a flexible chain-link mouthpiece that moves with the horse, evenly distributing pressure across the tongue. Its design prevents the horse from leaning or pulling by causing the mouthpiece to collapse when pressure is applied, making it an excellent choice for horses that tend to pull on the reins.

Check out the Waterford Dee Bit →

15. Mullen mouth snaffle

Happy Mouth Mullen Mouth Pro King Dee Bit

A mullen mouth snaffle is an unjointed bit with a slightly curved mouthpiece that evenly distributes pressure across the tongue and bars. The curve in the center allows room for the horse’s tongue, offering a mild option that’s suitable for young or sensitive horses.

Check out the Happy Mouth Mullen Mouth Pro King Dee Bit →

16. Roller snaffle

Korsteel Stainless Steel Copper and Steel Roller Mouth Eggbutt Snaffle Bit

The roller snaffle features rotating metal links along the mouthpiece to encourage relaxation of the horse’s jaw. Its dynamic design helps soothe “busy” mouths while promoting acceptance of the bit. Rollers can be made of metal or copper to encourage salivation.

Check out the Korsteel Stainless Steel Copper and Steel Roller Mouth Eggbutt Snaffle Bit →

Snaffle bit materials

Snaffles come in a variety of mouthpiece materials, each offering unique benefits. While stainless steel is the most common, some horses may prefer the taste or feel of other materials. Here are a few other materials used for snaffle mouthpieces:

Copper

A copper-coated or solid copper mouthpiece encourages salivation for a softer, more accepting mouth. The sweet taste of copper helps horses relax, making it a great choice for sensitive or resistant horses.

Check out the Korsteel Stainless Steel Copper Mouth Eggbutt Snaffle Bit →

Sweet iron

Sweet iron is a treated metal with a sweet taste that encourages salivation. Many horses prefer it to the taste of stainless steel, which helps them accept the bit. However, sweet iron does tend to rust.

Check out the Trust Sweet Iron Dee Waterford Bit →

Rubber

A rubber snaffle has a metal mouthpiece that’s encased in hard or soft rubber for a gentler feel. It softens rein pressure and protects the bars of the mouth, making it an excellent choice for training young horses or accommodating sensitive mouths.

Check out the Centaur King Dee Rubber Mouth Bit →

How to use a snaffle bit

Whether you’re introducing a green horse to his first bit or refining your seasoned horse’s training, mastering the basics of using a snaffle bit is important for clear communication. Here’s how to ensure you and your horse get the most out of this simple yet powerful tool.

  1. Choose the right one: Consider your horse’s unique needs when selecting a snaffle bit. Factors like mouth size and sensitivity, training level, taste preferences, and the requirements of your riding discipline all play a role in finding the perfect fit.
  2. Fit it correctly: Proper fit is key to comfort and effectiveness. Adjust the cheekpieces so the bit creates a soft wrinkle at the corners of your horse’s mouth. Ensure the snaffle doesn’t pinch the lips or slide excessively.
  3. Understand direct pressure: A snaffle works with direct pressure, so it’s important to develop a soft, steady feel with your hands. Understand how the bit transfers pressure from your rein cues to your horse’s mouth, and always prioritize clear, gentle communication.
  4. Learn rein cues: Practice using the reins to signal turns, slow down, or stop. Use light, deliberate rein movements and pair them with leg cues for added precision. Consistency and timing help your horse respond confidently and calmly.
  5. Monitor your horse’s response: Horses that accept the bit tend to show signs of relaxation like chewing lightly or salivating. If your horse tosses his head, gapes his mouth, or shows resistance, double-check the fit or consider trying a different snaffle.

Are snaffle bits harsh?

Snaffle bits are generally considered gentle because they rely on direct pressure rather than leverage. This allows riders to deliver precise, controlled cues to the horse’s mouth for clear communication without unnecessary force.

However, any bit can become harsh in the wrong hands. Excessive pulling or heavy-handed riding can cause pain and discomfort to the horse’s mouth, no matter how mild the bit is. An ill-fitting snaffle can also create issues, so it’s essential to ensure the bit fits comfortably in your horse’s mouth.

As with any new tool, when introducing a new bit, take things slow, monitor your horse’s reactions, and consult your vet if you have any concerns.

When to use a snaffle bit

Now that you know how to use a snaffle bit, let’s talk about when to use one. Whether you’re training, transitioning, or simply fine-tuning your horse’s skills, here are some key situations where a snaffle bit is the best choice:

  • Training young horses: Snaffles are an excellent first bit, ideal for introducing green horses to the concept of rein pressure. A breaking snaffle, like one with a rubber or roller mouthpiece, offers a gentle and effective start to bit training.
  • Learning rein aids: Thanks to their simple direct-pressure design, snaffles are perfect for helping new riders develop effective rein aids without applying too much pressure to the horse’s mouth. Gentler snaffle bits, such as ones with smooth or double-jointed mouthpieces, are a smart choice for beginners.
  • Riding in English disciplines: Many English horses, such as those used in dressage, hunter jumpers, or eventing, may only ever need a snaffle bit for training and competition. Be sure to pay attention to which types of snaffles are allowed in your discipline.
  • Controlling strong horses: When riding a strong horse, you may default to reaching for a leverage bit. However, a slightly more severe snaffle, like a twisted snaffle, can provide the additional control you need without adding leverage.

Ready to find the perfect snaffle bit for your horse? From custom bits to copper roller D-ring snaffles and French link Wilson snaffles, Farm House Tack offers a wide selection of quality bits to suit every horse, rider, and discipline. Explore our collection of snaffle bits to find one that you and your horse will love.

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1 comment

I really enjoyed the information that I received in this article. While I have no horse of my own, I have worked stables and just love and appreciate anything to do with Horses. Warm blood, Mustangs, Arabians, Buckskins are something. Thank you all for sharing info about my dream. Respectfully, Bren Yaklin

Bren Yaklin

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