The new SPRENGER TURNADO PRO bit was specifically developed for horses with a short mouth gap, abundant lip tissue in the inner corner of the mouth, a first molar positioned far forward, and sharp lower bars. Such anatomical conditions increase the risk that when taking up the reins, the sensitive tissue in the corner of the mouth becomes pinched between the bit and the molar – or that horses bite the inside of their lip. The TURNADO PRO offers an ergonomic solution that relieves pressure on the center of the tongue, avoids pressure points, and enables gentle action.
Why is a short mouth gap a problem?
A short mouth gap means little room for the bit, as the distance between the bars and the molar is very small. This can be a real challenge, particularly with a double bridle where two bits must fit in the horse's mouth. In geldings and stallions, the canine teeth add to the difficulty by further restricting the space. In horses with such anatomical conditions, the bit easily presses against the lip tissue – especially with curved shanks. These tend to pinch at the level of the first molar and quickly lead to bruising or redness in the corner of the mouth.
Many of our models such as Dynamic RS, Pronamic or Satinox tend to be counterproductive for such horses, as they increase the pressure on the lip. These models are particularly suitable for horses with very fine mouths and little lip tissue. Therefore, for horses with short interdental spaces and fleshy corners of the mouth, we usually recommend bit models with straight shanks such as the KK-Ultra as a double jointed bit or the single jointed TURNADO bit. This reduces the risk of pinching and the action remains harmonious.
How the TURNADO PRO works: The combination of TURNADO and Pronamic
TURNADO and Pronamic are two established bit lines from SPRENGER, each with their own strengths:
Here once again are the advantages of TURNADO bits:
- Joint inclined approximately 45° forward
- Symmetrical contact surface on both sides of the tongue
- Even tongue action, counteracts natural crookedness
- Tongue-friendly and direct action
- Straight bit shape suitable for horses with fleshy mouths
Special features of Pronamic bits:
- Single jointed, anatomically shaped
- Forward angled tongue relief
- Particularly suitable for horses that pull energetically forward or tend to lean on the bit
- Effective, but not overwhelming – also for sensitive horses
The TURNADO PRO combines these features: The inclined joint of the TURNADO plus the centering, gentle tongue relief of the Pronamic. The result is a bit that acts directly yet gently, particularly for horses with sensitive tongues and difficult mouth anatomy.
When is the TURNADO PRO recommended?
The TURNADO PRO is designed for horses with:
- Short mouth gap
- Abundant lip tissue in the inner corner of the mouth
- Forward positioned molars and sharp lower bars
- Horses that respond well to the classic TURNADO but still pull their tongue up or go behind the vertical
- Horses where bits with a curved shape (e.g. Pronamic) exert too much pressure on the corners of the mouth
During development, we worked together with our team riders and tested on various horses with the anatomical characteristics mentioned at the beginning. This showed that horses that previously pulled their tongue up with the normal TURNADO bit no longer showed tongue pulling 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 relief, less pressure, gently centers the tongue
- Straight bit shanks: Reduced risk of lip pinching with short interdental space and abundant lip tissue
- Angled 45° joint: Even contact on both sides of the tongue, counteracts crookedness
- Gentle but direct: Fine aids arrive directly in the horse's mouth without harsh action – ideal for sensitive horses
- Tested in practice: Concrete improvements such as no tongue pulling and no redness
Material advantage SENSOGAN – purchase-promoting and mouth-friendly
Our TURNADO PRO is naturally also manufactured from the high-quality SENSOGAN alloy – a particularly mouth-friendly, nickel-free mixture of copper, manganese and zinc. Compared to the predecessor material Aurigan, SENSOGAN contains less copper, but remains oxidation-active and thereby specifically stimulates the horse's salivation and chewing activity. This means horses accept the bits particularly willingly and chew relaxedly, which positively supports concentration on the bit and willingness to perform.
Another advantage: the manganese content has a positive effect on muscle and energy metabolism. Additionally, this trace element contributes to stress reduction. Since the material is nickel-free, it is ideal for horses with sensitive mucous membranes or allergic predisposition. The rapid warming of the material ensures a pleasant bit temperature quickly, especially in winter at cold temperatures. You can read more about the SENSOGAN material in the blog.
Action of the TURNADO PRO
The TURNADO PRO is exclusively available as a loose ring snaffle – meaning without fixed side pieces, which makes the action particularly gentle and variable. When taking up the reins, the loose ring snaffle reacts through the movable rings: The pressure is slightly cushioned and transferred to the tongue and lower jaw. This has the effect that the aids arrive clearly, but softly and precisely – ideal for sensitive horses and riders with a less steady hand.
Additionally, the TURNADO PRO is also available as a bradoon – in this form with finer, smaller rings, also suitable for ponies and smaller horse mouth widths. The bradoon offers an adapted fit for smaller horse heads due to its smaller ring size, or also in combination with a curb bit. Thus, the model is also an ideal choice for pony owners and advanced dressage riders.
