Full Cheek Bits

Full-cheek snaffles are instantly identifiable by the arms, or cheeks, that extend from the ring of the bit. These narrow cheeks help to stabilize the bit and keep the bit from being pulled through your horse’s mouth. The arms on the bit also help to reinforce the rider’s directional aids, making full-cheek bits an excellent choice for horses that have trouble turning. Traditionally, the top arm of a full-cheek bit is attached to the bridle via a bit keeper or bit loop. This prevents the arm from catching on the bridle and keeps the bit safely positioned in your horse’s mouth.

One of the main advantages of full cheek bits is their ability to prevent the bit from sliding through the horse’s mouth. The long cheeks keep the bit stable and centered, making it an ideal choice for horses that are still learning to respond to rein aids. The full cheeks also provide a solid point of contact for turning cues, allowing the rider to gently guide the horse's head in the desired direction with minimal pressure.

We carry an extensive selection of full-cheek snaffles from Coronet, Korsteel, Myler Bits, Shires, Stubben, and Weaver Leather. Full cheek bits come in a variety of mouthpiece options, each designed to cater to different equine needs. Some popular choices include single-jointed, double-jointed, and mullen mouthpieces. Single-jointed bits apply pressure primarily to the horse's bars and tongue, while double-jointed versions distribute pressure more evenly across the mouth. Riders can select the best mouthpiece based on their horse’s sensitivity and training level. With a wide array of smooth and twisted mouthpieces, we have a bit for every training level and disposition.

Many of the smooth mouthpiece full-cheeks are legal for dressage competitions under United States Dressage Federation (USDF) and United States Eventing Association (USEA) rules. If you have any questions about the legality of equipment, please refer to your association’s rulebook or consult with a steward.

We understand that choosing the right bit for your horse can be a difficult and confusing process. We invite you to read our blog or reach out to our experienced sales staff for assistance.