Loose Ring Snaffle Bit with Elliptical Link – 16mm

The Loose Ring Snaffle Bit with Elliptical Link is a stainless steel horse bit featuring a 16mm mouthpiece, central elliptical link and loose ring cheeks.

This double-jointed snaffle-style design provides direct rein action without leverage, while the central elliptical link allows the mouthpiece to articulate across the horse's tongue and bars.

The loose rings allow movement between the mouthpiece and cheek rings and provide a quick release of rein pressure when the rider softens the contact. This makes the bit a versatile option for schooling, hacking and a variety of equestrian disciplines when correctly selected and fitted for the individual horse.

Key Features & Benefits

• Loose ring snaffle-style horse bit.
• 16mm mouthpiece.
• Central elliptical link.
• Double-jointed mouthpiece design.
• Durable stainless steel construction.
• Direct rein action without leverage when used conventionally.
• Loose ring cheeks allow movement of the mouthpiece.
• Quick release of rein pressure when the rider softens.
• Elliptical centre provides a smooth central connection between the two mouthpiece sections.
• Suitable for a variety of riding disciplines where permitted.
• Straightforward stainless steel care and maintenance.
• Available in different bit sizes where stocked.

16mm Elliptical Link Mouthpiece

The mouthpiece measures 16mm in thickness and features a central elliptical link.

Unlike a single-jointed mouthpiece, the two joints allow the sections of the mouthpiece to articulate independently around the central link.

The precise pressure distribution and suitability of any bit will depend on factors including the horse's individual mouth conformation, tongue size, palate, dental condition, bit size, fitting and the rider's rein contact.

Loose Ring Cheeks

The loose rings move independently from the mouthpiece rather than being fixed in position.

This creates greater mobility than a fixed-cheek bit and allows the mouthpiece to move with the horse's mouth. When rein pressure is released, the loose-ring construction also allows a relatively immediate release of the rein aid.

Some horses prefer this additional movement, while others may be better suited to a more stable fixed-cheek design.

Direct Snaffle Action

When fitted and used conventionally, the Loose Ring Snaffle works through direct rein pressure rather than leverage.

The overall action of the bit is influenced by its mouthpiece design, fit and the rider's hands, so it should not be assumed that any particular mouthpiece will automatically be mild or suitable for every horse.

Ideal For

• Everyday schooling.
• Flatwork.
• Hacking.
• General riding.
• Riders looking for a loose-ring design.
• Horses suited to a double-jointed elliptical-link mouthpiece.
• Multiple disciplines where this bit design is permitted.
• Riders wanting a 16mm stainless steel mouthpiece.

Selecting the Correct Bit

Bit choice should be based on the individual horse rather than discipline alone.

Consider:

• Correct bit width.
• Mouthpiece thickness.
• Tongue and palate conformation.
• Available space within the mouth.
• Previous bit preferences.
• Dental health.
• Rider experience and rein contact.
• Current competition rules where applicable.

A qualified bit fitter, experienced equestrian professional or equine dental professional can assist where there are concerns about fit or comfort.

Care & Maintenance

Rinse the bit with clean or warm water after use to remove saliva and feed residue.

For more thorough cleaning, use mild soap or an appropriate bit-cleaning product, rinse thoroughly and dry before storage.

Regularly inspect the mouthpiece, joints and loose rings for wear, roughness or damage.

Product Information

Product: Loose Ring Snaffle Bit with Elliptical Link
Bit Type: Loose Ring Snaffle
Mouthpiece: Double-Jointed with Elliptical Centre Link
Mouthpiece Thickness: 16mm
Material: Stainless Steel
Cheeks: Loose Ring
Action: Direct / Non-Leverage when Conventionally Fitted
Suitable For: Schooling, Hacking & Appropriate Equestrian Disciplines

Available mouth widths and loose-ring diameter were not supplied and should be added from your current stock information.

FAQs

What type of bit is this?
It is a 16mm stainless steel loose ring snaffle with a double-jointed elliptical-link mouthpiece.

Does a loose ring snaffle use leverage?
When conventionally fitted and used from the main loose rings, a snaffle works through direct rein action rather than leverage.

What does the elliptical link do?
The elliptical centre forms the connection between the two sides of the double-jointed mouthpiece and allows them to articulate independently. How the bit feels to an individual horse depends on its overall design, fit and the horse's mouth conformation.

Is a double-jointed bit always softer than a single-jointed bit?
Not necessarily. No bit design is universally softer for every horse. Mouthpiece shape, thickness, joint design, fit and the rider's hands all affect its action.

What is the mouthpiece thickness?
The mouthpiece is 16mm thick.

What material is the bit made from?
It is made from stainless steel.

Is it suitable for dressage or competition?
Bit rules vary by discipline, organisation and competition level. Check the current governing body's rules for the exact bit configuration before competing.

Important

Correct sizing and fitting are essential. Regularly inspect the horse's mouth and the bit for signs of rubbing, pinching or discomfort.

Loose-ring bits can potentially pinch the lips of some horses if incorrectly sized or fitted. Appropriate bit guards may be considered where permitted and suitable, but should not compensate for an incorrectly sized bit.