A Waterford bit is a distinctive bit consisting of a series of interconnected links. Contrary to popular belief, this bit's action is quite mild, as the individual links allow movement in all directions and distribute pressure very evenly over the horse's tongue, bars, and mouth corners. The constant mobility of the links ensures that no point in the horse's mouth remains under intense pressure for too long. This bit is particularly well-suited for horses that tend to lean on or block the bit. The continuous movement in the mouth can encourage the horse to be more responsive to the rider’s hand.

The cheekpieces of this bit provide lateral guidance and stability. The Waterford Cheekpiece Snaffle is used with lifting cheek pieces that pass through the bit rings and have a ring at the bottom. Lifting snaffles can be used with one or two reins. When the reins are taken up, pressure is increased on the poll, causing the bit to tilt in the mouth and be pulled upwards. This also increases the pressure on the horse’s tongue and bars. As the name suggests, a lifting snaffle helps to elevate the horse. This type of bit provides a high level of control and is suitable only for experienced riders!

The stainless steel mouthpiece is completely odorless and tasteless, making it suitable for sensitive horses. The SWEET copper center piece encourages chewing activity.

Effect:

• Even pressure distribution across the entire horse's mouth
• Lifting snaffle affects the mouth corners and poll of the horse
• Provides light lateral stability

Mouthpiece:

• Made of stainless steel
• Stainless steel is robust, tasteless, and odorless
• Soft Roll Sweet Copper: The slightly sweet taste of copper is well accepted by horses and encourages chewing activity
• 90% copper, 7% iron, and aluminum, nickel-free and particularly robust

Which horses are particularly suited for this bit?

• Horses that show very little mouth activity and tend to lean on the bit
• Horses that lean down on the hand
• Horses that need lateral guidance
• Horses that need better elevation

Association Approvals:

• Dressage: FEI, USEF, USDF, USEA
• Eventing: FEI, USEF, USEA
• Jumping: FEI, USEF, USEA

These approvals are the best information we have at this time, but correctness standards are ever evolving. Competitors are reminded that they are responsible for the correctness of their tack. If a rider is unsure of the correctness of any tack, it is the rider’s responsibility to confirm their equipment with the steward or technical delegate.