The Shires Waterford Loose Ring Snaffle is a highly flexible, multi-jointed bit designed specifically for strong horses that tend to lean, set their jaw or pull heavily on the rider's hands. It provides advanced stopping power during fast-paced work while keeping the horse's mouth highly mobile.
Key Specifications:
- High-quality, polished stainless steel (highly durable, rust-resistant and tasteless).
- Mouthpiece Thickness: Built with a substantial 18mm profile.
- Cheek Ring Dimensions: Standard 65mm loose rings.
- It is highly advised to choose a size up (by 1/4" to 1/2") from your horse's normal bit size. Because the chain links wrap entirely around the curvature of the tongue, the bit effectively "shortens" inside the mouth. A bit that is too small will cause severe skin pinching from the outer loose rings
How it Works:
- Eradicates Leaning: The signature Waterford mouthpiece consists of a multi-jointed "ball-and-chain" link structure. Because it bends effortlessly in every horizontal and vertical direction, the horse has no rigid surface to brace or clamp their teeth against, instantly breaking their grip.
- Flexible Tongue Contour: Under a light, sympathetic contact, the chain fluidly "drapes" over the contours of the tongue and bars, offering an even distribution of pressure and plenty of swallowing freedom.
- Tactical Braking Action: The instant a horse tries to pull or bolt, the independent links lock together into a semi-rigid bar, giving the rider a distinct, firm braking surface.
- Sweet Iron & Copper Benefits: If choosing the sweet iron variant, the metal naturally oxidizes (rusts safely), creating a sweet taste that encourages dry-mouthed horses to salivate and relax their lower jaw.
This bit is not legal for Dressage under British Dressage (BD) or FEI rules due to its segmented, non-uniform link design. It is however highly popular for showjumping, cross-country, and hunting
Safety Note: Because of its locking mechanism, this bit requires a sympathetic, educated hand. Riders should never "see-saw" the reins, as this can make the action severe.