>>> We start our young horses in a modified sidepull....then we haved gone to a >>> snaffel, >>> but have not been liking the traditional snaffel and some of the problems >>> they can >>> cause, like evading the bit...so we have started using french links, and >>> that has been >>> much better.
We use sidepulls too, but when we use bits, we use more French links than anything. You can find them in stainless at any "English" (hunter, dressage) tack store in sizes from 3.5" to 5.5", for about $20-30. I haven't found that the more expensive bits work better. >>> I have also been looking for biothane bridles. We have 2 that we got from >>> country >>> supply, but have not liked the hardware that they are made with. So we >>> will be >>> ordering 2 of these to try out. Hawaii is hard on tack and biothane is the >>> perfect >>> solution. Check out Moss Rock Endurance. She does great work, will customize sizes for no extra charge, will make them in plain biothane or beta biothane, or with colored overlays, bling, you name it. I like her Freedom Bridles which can be used as a halter, sidepull, "bitless bridle", or standard bridle. She has made one this size which is adjustable to fit all my Icelandic heads from tiny Sina (here: http://mossrockendurance.com/images/FBTurq.jpg) to big honking Tivar's head. She made the black beta sidepull for Tivar that has the turquoise stones on the overlay. If you really want a spiffy look, she will make a matching breast collar. Her prices are great, considering she makes everything to order. Karen Thomas, NC
