>>> Is there any reason not to drive with a sidepull?
We always start ground driving with either a halter or sidepull, then gradually switch over to a bit. The sidepull-bridle combos are really nice, since they can carry a bit while you're still using the sidepull rings for the reins. Moss Rock endurance makes a nice "Freedom Bridle" and Dana who makes the Sensations makes a nice combo called the Harmony bridle. If I knew that I was going to keep some of these horses forever, I'd keep them bitless longer, but since I don't know who might own them eventually, I find it comforting to know that their initial introduction to the bit was with a mild bit used in an easy way. I also think bits aren't necessarily bad, but their can provide more subtle communication later - and I like that subtlety for the finer points of training like for cuing for different gaits. Karen Thomas, NC
