How do you choose between a Spanish bit and a Portuguese bit?
In Iberian disciplines, the action on the mouth comes from the combination of mouthpiece, curb chain and shanks. The Spanish bit uses straight shanks or side passes to guide the reins with a direct leverage action. The Portuguese bit has the curved shanks typical of Lusitano dressage.
When choosing your equipment, there are several points to consider:
- Straight or jointed mouthpiece: a straight mouthpiece gives a steady feel on the bars and tongue, while a jointed mouthpiece spreads the pressure on either side of the jaw.
- Leverage: the length of the shanks amplifies the effect of the aids on the poll, encouraging a horse that is already schooled to yield at the head.
- Mouth conformation: the thickness of the mouthpiece and the presence of a port give more comfort to horses with a thick tongue.
Which bit should you choose for an Iberian horse?
Working an Iberian horse calls for finesse and precision. In doma vaquera, dressage or display work, these horses often have a compact head-neck junction and a sensitive mouth. To pick a suitable mouthpiece, look at these key criteria:
- Bit width: a precise fit stops the shanks from rubbing against the corners of the lips.
- Mouthpiece texture: a smooth mouthpiece gives neutral contact, while a ridged one sends clearer signals to experienced hands.
- Range of finishes: stainless steel, cyprium or rubber-covered side passes suit each horse's salivation preferences.
Which mouthpieces are in our range?
Our range includes 17 mouthpieces to suit your horse and the tradition you ride in:
- FEELING models: the FEELING Portuguese bit and the FEELING Spanish bit, in jointed, straight, rubber side pass, satin stainless steel side pass or cyprium versions.
- LOPEZ models: the LOPEZ Doma Vaquera bit, the LOPEZ "cerrada" vaquero bit and the traditional LOPEZ Vaquero bit, also available in a 17cm version.
- SPRENGER models: the SPRENGER Spanish bit with port and the SPRENGER "KK Ultra" Spanish bit.
- ACAMPADO and GOMES models: the GOMES straight Portuguese bit with smooth mouthpiece, the Portuguese bit with ridged mouthpiece and its stainless steel version from ACAMPADO.