Lip Strap

The Leather Lip Strap is a finely rolled leather bitting accessory designed to help secure a curb chain in the correct position and reduce unnecessary movement or bouncing against the horse's chin groove.

Small and unobtrusive, a lip strap can make an important difference to the stability and neatness of a curb-chain setup. It is suitable for compatible bits including Pelhams, Kimblewicks and Weymouth bits, as well as other appropriate curb-chain configurations.

Key Features & Benefits

• Finely rolled leather construction.
• Slim, unobtrusive design.
• Helps keep the curb chain securely positioned.
• Reduces bouncing and excessive movement of the curb chain.
• Helps prevent the curb chain from riding upwards.
• Provides a more stable curb-chain arrangement.
• Simple buckle fastening.
• Threads through the appropriate curb-chain ring.
• Neat, traditional leather appearance.
• Small but useful bitting accessory.
• Suitable for a variety of compatible curb bits.

What Does a Lip Strap Do?

A lip strap is used as part of a curb-chain bitting arrangement.

It connects across the lower portion of the bit and passes through the appropriate ring on the curb chain. This helps anchor the chain and limits unnecessary movement as the horse moves or the reins are used.

The result is a more stable and consistent curb-chain setup.

How to Fit a Lip Strap

The exact fitting will depend on the design of the bit, but a traditional lip strap is generally fitted by:

1. Attaching the lip strap to the appropriate point on one side of the bit.
2. Passing it through the small ring provided on the curb chain.
3. Bringing the strap across to the opposite side of the bit.
4. Securing it using the buckle.
5. Checking that the strap and curb chain sit correctly without excessive tightness or restriction.

The lip strap should stabilise the curb chain without interfering with the horse's mouth or the intended action of the bit.

If you are unsure how to fit a curb chain or lip strap correctly, seek guidance from an experienced instructor, bitting professional or suitably knowledgeable tack fitter.

Compatible With

Suitable for compatible bits fitted with a curb chain, including:

• Pelham bits.
• Kimblewick bits.
• Weymouth bits used with a double bridle.
• Other appropriate curb-chain bits.
• Compatible shanked bits designed to accept a lip strap.

Always check the individual bit design before fitting.

Why Use a Lip Strap?

When a curb chain is able to move excessively, it may bounce or shift position around the horse's chin groove.

A correctly fitted lip strap helps stabilise the curb chain, creating a tidier arrangement and helping it remain appropriately positioned.

It also provides an additional connection between the curb chain and bit setup.

Care Instructions

After riding:

• Wipe away dirt, sweat and moisture with a soft damp cloth.
• Allow the leather to dry naturally.
• Avoid drying leather directly against a heater or other strong heat source.
• Periodically apply a suitable leather conditioner to help maintain suppleness.
• Regularly inspect the leather, buckle and attachment points for wear or cracking.

Replace the lip strap if the leather or fastening becomes damaged.

Product Information

Product: Leather Lip Strap
Product Type: Horse Bit Accessory
Material: Leather
Construction: Finely Rolled
Fastening: Buckle
Primary Use: Stabilising a Curb Chain
Suitable For: Compatible Pelham, Kimblewick, Weymouth & Curb-Chain Bit Setups

The colour, overall length, leather type and buckle material were not supplied and should only be added once confirmed from the current stock.

FAQs

What is a lip strap used for?
A lip strap helps keep a curb chain securely positioned and reduces unnecessary movement or bouncing around the horse's chin groove.

Does the lip strap go through the curb chain?
Yes. On a compatible setup, the strap passes through the appropriate small ring on the curb chain before fastening to the opposite side of the bit.

Can I use it with a Pelham?
Yes, provided the Pelham and curb-chain arrangement are designed to accept a lip strap.

Can it be used with a Kimblewick?
It can be used with compatible Kimblewick curb-chain setups.

Is it suitable for a double bridle?
It can be used with an appropriately designed Weymouth curb bit in a double bridle setup.

Why is the leather rolled?
The finely rolled construction provides a slim and unobtrusive profile while performing its stabilising function.

Can I use a lip strap in competition?
Tack requirements and permitted bitting arrangements vary between disciplines and governing bodies. Check the current rules applicable to your competition.

Safety & Fitting

Because a lip strap forms part of a curb-bit system, correct fitting of the entire arrangement is important.

The curb chain, lip strap and bit should work together as intended without excessive tightness or interference. Regularly inspect all components before riding.