Draft horses and other large-framed horse breeds require bits that fit their anatomy perfectly. A bit that is too small can cause pressure points and significantly impair communication between rider and horse. That's why SPRENGER offers a comprehensive selection of draft horse bits in sizes starting from 15.5 cm mouth width. In this article, you'll learn which bits are particularly suitable for large horses and what to look for when making your selection.
Why Do Draft Horses Need Special Bits?
Draft horses, large-framed warmbloods, and other heavy horse breeds not only have a larger head but also a wider mouth than average riding horses. A standard-sized bit would be too tight on these horses and could pinch the sensitive oral mucosa. The result would be pain, defensive reactions, and disrupted communication. A properly sized draft horse bit, on the other hand, rests quietly in the horse's mouth, distributes pressure evenly, and enables fine, precise aid-giving. The correct size is just as important as choosing the appropriate bit type and material.
Determining the Correct Mouth Width
Before purchasing a draft horse bit, you should accurately measure your horse's mouth width. To do this, measure the distance between the corners of the mouth, e.g. with our bit width measure. For draft horses, sizes typically start at 15.5 cm and can go up to 17 cm or more. Professional bit consultation can help you find the optimal size for your horse.
SENSOGAN – The Innovative Material for Sensitive Mouths
Many draft horse bits from SPRENGER are made of SENSOGAN, an innovative material specially developed for horses' needs. SENSOGAN is a copper-zinc alloy that, through its special composition, stimulates the horse's chewing activity and saliva production. A chewing mouth is more supple and accepts the bit better. Additionally, SENSOGAN oxidizes significantly less than conventional copper alloys and maintains its pleasant surface longer. The material is particularly suitable for sensitive horses that tend to have dry mouths or accept the bit reluctantly. Learn more about the advantages of SENSOGAN in our detailed article on SENSOGAN bits.
The Best Draft Horse Bits at a Glance
SPRENGER offers a wide range of bits for draft horses and large-framed horses. Each model has its specific characteristics and is suitable for different training levels and areas of use. Below, we present the most important draft horse bits from our range.
KK ULTRA Loose Ring Snaffle
The KK ULTRA loose ring snaffle is a true classic among bits and convinces through its special construction. The distinctive feature is the patented KK ULTRA center piece, which offers the tongue significantly more space than conventional bits. The special 45-degree angle ensures that the bit sits optimally in the horse's mouth and relieves the center of the tongue. At the same time, pressure is distributed evenly across the entire tongue, enabling fine and precise aid-giving. For draft horses with sensitive tongues or horses that tend to put their tongue over the bit, the KK ULTRA water snaffle is an excellent choice. More information about KK ULTRA technology can be found in our article on KK ULTRA bits.
WH ULTRA Loose Ring Snaffle – Double-Jointed for Optimal Pressure Distribution
The WH ULTRA loose ring snaffle is also double-jointed and offers particularly even pressure distribution in the horse's mouth thanks to its special geometry. The WH ULTRA center piece is angled forwards in comparison to conventional double-jointed bits and features a copper roller in the middle. This construction prevents the so-called nutcracker effect, where too much pressure is exerted on the center of the tongue. For draft horses that react sensitively to tongue action, the WH ULTRA loose ring snaffle is a comfortable solution. The bit promotes contact and supports a soft, permeable connection between the rider's hand and the horse's mouth. More information about WH ULTRA technology can be found in our article on KK ULTRA, where we also discuss related technologies.
Dynamic RS Eggbut Bit and Loose Ring Snaffle – For Stable Lateral Limitation
The Dynamic RS series is characterized by its ergonomic shape that adapts optimally to the anatomy of the horse's mouth. The Dynamic RS mouthpiece is slightly tilted forward, which makes it rest particularly quietly in the mouth and relieves the tongue. The eggbut bit offers additional limitation through the lateral rings, which can be especially helpful for young or still inexperienced horses. The olives prevent the bit from sliding through the mouth and give the horse clear lateral orientation. The Dynamic RS loose ring snaffle, on the other hand, is the classic variant without lateral limitation and is suitable for horses that already have good contact. Both variants are available in draft horse sizes and promote relaxed jaw muscles. Detailed information about Dynamic RS technology can be found in our article on Dynamic RS.
TURNADO Loose Ring Snaffle – The Innovative Rotation for More Comfort
The TURNADO snaffle is an innovative bit that stands out through its 45-degree rotated shanks. This special construction ensures that the bit sits anatomically correct in the horse's mouth and optimally relieves the tongue. The rotation enables even pressure distribution and prevents pressure peaks on the tongue. The TURNADO loose ring snaffle is available in both SENSOGAN and stainless steel, so you can choose the material that best suits your horse. SENSOGAN promotes chewing activity and saliva production, while stainless steel is taste-neutral and particularly easy to care for. For draft horses that tend to have tension in the jaw area, the TURNADO water snaffle can be a real relief. More information about TURNADO technology can be found in our detailed article on the TURNADO bit.
MAX-Control Water Snaffle – For More Control with Strong Horses
The MAX-Control water snaffle was specially developed for horses that need stronger action or tend to go against the hand. The bit has special tongue freedom and precise action on the bars. Through the special construction, pressure is distributed in a targeted manner without overloading the horse's mouth. For draft horses that are sometimes more difficult to control due to their strength and size, the MAX-Control water snaffle offers an effective solution. However, it is important that this bit is only used by experienced riders with a fine hand to avoid overwhelming the horse.
KK ULTRA Liverpool Bit – For Driving Sports
The KK ULTRA Liverpool bit is a classic driving bit that convinces through its variable adjustment options. The different rings enable different lever effects, so that the action can be individually adjusted. The KK ULTRA mouthpiece provides an even contact surface and even pressure distribution. For draft horses in driving sports, the KK ULTRA Liverpool bit is an excellent choice, as it optimally combines control and comfort.
Butterfly and Liverpool Bit – Classics in Driving Sports
The butterfly bit and the classic Liverpool bit are traditional driving bits that have been used for generations. Both curb bits have several adjustment options that enable different lever effects. The post bit is characterized by its distinctive shape with the lateral posts, while the Liverpool bit stands out through its D-shaped rings. Both bits are available in draft horse sizes and are excellent for demanding driving sports. However, they require an experienced hand and should only be used by drivers familiar with the mode of action of curb bits.
Tips for Choosing the Right Draft Horse Bit
Choosing the appropriate bit depends on several factors. In addition to the correct size, the horse's training level, its individual preferences, and any anatomical peculiarities also play a role. A young, still inexperienced draft horse generally benefits from a simple loose ring bit with an even contact surfurface, such as the KK ULTRA or WH ULTRA loose ring snaffle. If the horse needs more lateral support, choose an eggbut bit such as the Dynamic RS eggbut.
Material and Compatibility
When choosing, also pay attention to the material. SENSOGAN is particularly suitable for horses that tend to have dry mouths or accept the bit reluctantly. Stainless steel, on the other hand, is taste-neutral and particularly easy to care for. Some horses prefer one material or the other, so it can be useful to try different variants. Observe your horse carefully: does it chew contentedly, does it salivate sufficiently, and does it accept contact willingly? These signs indicate that the bit fits well and is accepted by the horse.
Use Professional Bit Fitting
If you're unsure which bit is best suited for your draft horse, you should seek professional bit consultation. Many specialist retailers and saddlers offer this service and can help you find the optimal bit for your horse. An experienced trainer can also provide valuable advice and assess the effect of different bits.
