The new SPRENGER
TURNADO PRO bit was specifically developed for horses with a short mouth gap,
a lot of lip tissue in the inner corner of the mouth, first molar positioned far forward
and pointed lower jaws. Such anatomical conditions increase the risk of the sensitive tissue in the corner of the mouth becoming trapped between the bit and the molar when the reins are picked up – or of horses biting their lips from the inside. The TURNADO PRO offers an ergonomic solution that
Relieves pressure on the middle of the tongue, avoids pressure peaks and enables a gentle effect.
Why is a short mouth gap a problem?
A short mouth gap means little room for the bit, as the distance between the bar and the molar is very small. This can be particularly challenging with a double bridle, where two bits must fit in the horse's mouth. In geldings and stallions, the stallion's teeth make the situation even more difficult, further restricting space. In horses with this anatomical condition, the bit presses slightly against the lip tissue – especially with curved shanks. These tend to jam at the level of the first molar and quickly lead to bruising or reddening at the corner of the mouth.
Many of our models like Dynamic RS, Pronamic or Satinox are counterproductive for such horses, as they increase the pressure on the lips. These models are particularly suitable for horses with very fine mouths and little lip flesh. Therefore, for horses with short mouth gaps and fleshy mouth corners, we usually recommend bit models with straight shanks, such as the KK-Ultra as double-jointed bit or the single jointedTURNADO bit. This reduces the risk of crushing and ensures a harmonious impact.
This is how TURNADO PRO works: The combination of TURNADO and Pronamic
TURNADO and Pronamic are two established bit lines from SPRENGER, each with its own strengths:
Here again are the advantages of the TURNADO bits:
- joint tilted forward by approximately 45°
- symmetrical contact surface on both sides of the tongue
- even tongue action, counteracts natural crookedness
- tongue-friendly and direct acting
- straight bit shape is suitable for horses with fleshy mouths
Special features of the Pronamic bits:
- singe jointed, anatomically shaped
- forward-flared port
- particularly suitable for horses that pull forward energetically or tend to become strong
- effective, but not overwhelming – even for sensitive horses
The TURNADO PRO combines these features: the TURNADO's angled joint plus the centering, gentle tongue clearance of the Pronamic. The result is a bit that is direct yet gentle, especially for horses with sensitive tongues and difficult mouth anatomy.
When is the TURNADO PRO recommended?
The TURNADO PRO is aimed at horses
- with short mouth gaps
- lots of lip flesh in the inner corner of the mouth
- high up front molars and pointed lower bars
- horses that respond well to the classic TURNADO but still walk with their tongues raised or behind the vertical
- horses where too much pressure is exerted on the corners of the mouth when using bits with a curved shape (e.g. Pronamic)
During development, we worked with our team riders and tested the bit on various horses with the anatomical characteristics mentioned at the beginning. The results showed that horses that previously curled their tongues with the standard TURNADO bit no longer curled their tongues with the TURNADO PRO. They appeared calmer and more even in the mouth.
Advantages of the TURNADO PRO at a glance
- Slight upward curve: More tongue freedom, less pressure, more centered tongue gently
- Straight bit shanks: Reduced risk of lip pinching with a short mouth gap and plenty of mouth tissue
- Inclined 45° joint: Even support on both sides of the tongue, counteracts crookedness
- Gentle but direct: subtle aids reach the horse's mouth directly without harsh impact – ideal for sensitive horses
- Tested in practice: Concrete improvements such as no pulling the tongue upwards and no soreness
Material advantage SENSOGAN – chew-promoting and mouth-friendly
Our TURNADO PRO is of course made from the high-quality SENSOGAN Made of an alloy – a particularly mouth-friendly, nickel-free blend of copper, manganese, and zinc. Compared to its predecessor, Aurigan, SENSOGAN contains less copper, but remains oxidation-active, thus specifically stimulating the horse's salivary flow and chewing activity. Horses therefore accept the bits particularly willingly and chew in a relaxed manner, which positively supports concentration on the bit and motivation to perform.
Another advantage: the manganese content has a positive effect on muscle and energy metabolism. This trace element also contributes to stress reduction. Since the material is nickel-free, it's ideal for horses with sensitive mucous membranes or allergies. The material's rapid heating ensures a comfortable bit temperature, especially in cold winter temperatures. More about the material SENSOGAN you can read in the blog.
Effect of the TURNADO PRO
The TURNADO PRO is exclusively available as Loose ring snaffle available with loose rings – i.e. without fixed side parts, which makes the effect particularly gentle and variable. When the reins are picked up, the loose ring snaffle reacts via the movable rings: The pressure is slightly cushioned and transmitted to the tongue and lower jaw. This results in the aids being delivered clearly, yet softly and precisely – ideal for sensitive horses and riders with a less steady hand.
In addition, the TURNADO PRO is also available as bradoon – in this form with finer, smaller rings, also suitable for ponies and smaller horse mouths. The snaffle bit (with its smaller ring size) offers a customized fit for smaller horse heads or in combination with a weymouth bit. This makes the model an ideal choice for pony owners and advanced dressage riders.
