Hackamores & Bitless Bridles

Hackamores & Bitless Bridles — Effective Communication Without Mouth Contact.

Bitless riding is no longer a niche choice. For horses with mouth injuries, dental problems, or a history of bit resistance, removing the bit from the equation can transform willingness and way of going. For others, a bitless bridle simply suits their sensitivity and training better than any bitted option. Whatever the reason, hackamores and bitless bridles offer a legitimate, well-established alternative to conventional bitted tack — provided they are correctly fitted and used by a rider who understands how the pressure points work.

Types of Hackamore & Bitless Bridle

• Mechanical hackamores – Use leverage via long shanks to apply pressure to the nose, chin groove, and poll simultaneously; can be strong in inexperienced hands and should be used with care and a light contact
• English hackamores – Shorter-shanked designs with a softer action than mechanical hackamores; a popular choice for jumping and cross-country where bits are not required by the rules
• Cross-under bitless bridles – Use crossed straps under the jaw to apply pressure across the nose and poll when rein contact is applied; a gentle, whole-head action that many horses find easy to accept
• Side-pull bridles – Apply direct lateral pressure to the nose without leverage; the mildest bitless option and a popular choice for groundwork, hacking, and horses in early training
• Combination bridles – Can be used with or without a bit, offering flexibility for riders who want to transition between bitted and bitless work

A Note on Competition Rules

Bitless bridles are permitted in some disciplines and at some levels — but not all. Always check the rules of your governing body before competing in a hackamore or bitless bridle.

Browse the full range below and find the right bitless option for your horse's needs and your discipline.