Bit Rings - Bit Guards

The function of bit guards is to prevent irritation to the corners of the mouth caused by the bit and to prevent the bit from being pulled through the mouth. Bit guards are available in various materials such as rubber and soft gel. Rubber bit guards are suitable for most horses, except for those that produce little to no saliva. In such cases, the bit guards can rub against the corners of the horse's mouth and cause discomfort. When the horse naturally has a normal to high saliva production, rubber bit guards generally pose no problems. The guards are available in brown and black colors, and some have cutouts to make it easier to attach them to the bit.

For a loose-ring snaffle, it is important to monitor whether the rubbing of the rings against the mouthpiece causes any sores on the cheeks. With a loose-ring snaffle, it is common to choose a mouthpiece that is 0.5 to 1 cm wider to prevent the rings from coming too close to the cheeks and causing potential damage. It is always advisable to use bit guards with a loose-ring snaffle.