In the right hands, one of the best double bridles allows for more subtle, refined aids – helping with lighter corrections and greater collection. That’s why they’re usually used in advanced flatwork, especially dressage and showing. But while both disciplines use doubles, the bridles themselves can look quite different.
For showing, the style is plain and traditional – think brown leather, flat cavesson, and hunter-style reins. Dressage riders tend to go for black leather, anatomical headpieces, padding, and often a touch of bling on the browband.
Most doubles don’t include the two bits (a Weymouth and a bridoon), though many do come with two sets of reins – if your chosen one doesn’t, we’ve rounded up a selection of the best reins, too. And if you’re not quite ready to commit to a new bridle, it may be possible to convert a cavesson snaffle with a sliphead (like this one) for the bridoon.
Best double bridles H&H’s quick guide
Best premium dressage double bridle: Fairfax Double Bridle
Best value double bridle for dressage: LeMieux Kudos Double Bridle
Best premium showing double bridle: Vortex Danbury Double Bridle
Best budget double bridle: Mackey Classic Double Bridle
Fairfax Double Bridle
Colours: Black or brown (with several browband options)
Sizes: Fine, standard or full
RRP: From £500
Reasons to buy:
- Engineered using pressure mapping and gait analysis
- Premium leather and smart detailing
- Lots of customisation options available
Reason to avoid:
- Significant investment, doesn’t include reins
If you’re serious about performance and comfort, the Fairfax Double Bridle is one of the most technically advanced options out there. Developed in collaboration with scientists and vets, it’s designed to relieve pressure in six key areas – including the poll, nose and jaw – using a carefully engineered shape and pressure-distributing Prolite lining.
The result? Up to 84% less pressure and 77% less force, according to Fairfax’s independent pressure-mapping studies. Riders report improved softness, better lift through the shoulder, and a more relaxed contact.
The craftsmanship matches the science. Handmade in Walsall from top-quality English leather, it includes subtle but clever design features like articulation rings that allow the noseband to move with the horse’s stride, rather than fix rigidly in place. It’s a serious investment, but for riders chasing both precision and comfort at a high level, this bridle really earns its keep.
LeMieux Kudos Double Bridle
Colours: All black or black with white accents
Sizes: Pony, cob, full or extra-full
RRP: £229.95
Reasons to buy:
- Anatomical shaping and cutaway padding for comfort at the poll
- Stylish contrast padding with a sharp dressage look
- Pre-oiled leather, soft from the first use
Reason to avoid:
- Reins are not included, so you’ll need to budget for them separately
If you’re looking for a smart, dressage-appropriate double that blends comfort with a polished look, the Kudos is a good choice. The padded headpiece is anatomically shaped and cut back to ease pressure on the ears and poll, while the wide, crank noseband provides a stable feel without being too bulky.
What stands out here is the contrast white padding – it gives the bridle a crisp, contemporary edge. You can opt not to have the white accents and go for the all black look instead. Best suited to dressage riders who want comfort, looks, and a good off-the-peg fit without jumping into ultra-premium territory.
Vortex Danbury Double Bridle
Colours: Havana
Sizes: Small pony, pony, cob or full
RRP: £149.99
Reasons to buy:
- Tailored monocrown headpiece eliminates the bulk of a slip‑head and reduces poll and TMJ pressure
- Elegant, traditional features like the raised leather browband and stitching
- Premium leather
Reason to avoid:
- Reins are sold separately
If you want a double bridle that’s as comfortable as it is show-ready, the Danbury delivers. The padded anatomical headpiece avoids the sensitive temporomandibular joint (TMJ) area and spreads pressure more evenly, which can really help horses that feel tight or reactive at the poll. With no slip-head, the monocrown design keeps things sleek and stable.
The look is classic and elegant – clean lines, a raised browband, and refined stitching in rich Havana leather. Just note: reins aren’t included, and as with any anatomical fit, it’s worth double-checking placement for best results.
Mackey Classic Double Bridle
Colours: Black or brown
Sizes: Pony, cob or full
RRP: From £68.99
Reasons to buy:
- Traditional flat cavesson for a classic show ring look
- Comes with both curb and snaffle reins
- Solid value for a smart leather double
Reason to avoid:
- No anatomical shaping or padding for sensitive types
If you’re after a no-nonsense, traditionally styled double bridle for showing or general use, this one does the job well. The flat cavesson and browband give it a clean, classic look, while the quality leather and stainless steel fittings feel sturdy and reliable.
It comes complete with laced snaffle reins and a plain curb rein, which is great at this price. It’s not the most advanced in terms of design, but if your horse doesn’t need the bells and whistles of a padded or anatomical fit, this is a dependable and well-priced choice.
Finesse Cassidy Rolled Double Bridle
Colours: Black or brown (several customisable options)
Sizes: Pony, cob, full or extra-full
RRP: £629
Reasons to buy:
- Unique headpiece design reduces pressure on sensitive areas
- Good finish with rolled leather and high-end stitching, lots of customisation options too
- Removable noseband and quick-change browband offer versatility
Reason to avoid:
- High price makes it more of an investment piece, reins not included
This is one for riders who want a double bridle that goes all in on comfort and design. It’s become a go-to for many dressage competitors, and the standout is the headpiece – pressure-tested by the University of Copenhagen to avoid the sensitive TMJ, the hinge just below the ears where the jaw connects to the skull. Instead of putting pressure there, it spreads it more evenly across the poll, which can make a real difference for horses who resist or get tight in more traditional bridles.
The leather is soft from day one – vegetable-tanned and beautifully finished with rolled edges. The wide, padded crank noseband is removable, and the browband is quick to change, too. It’s definitely an investment, but for riders who value comfort, adjustability and smart craftsmanship, the Cassidy is a top pick.
I’ve got the snaffle version, and if you’re buying second-hand, just watch how it’s been stored – if it’s been left hanging on quite a severe hook for too long, the headpiece can lose its shape. And because the browband and pad are quite mobile, it can take a little adjusting to get everything sitting just right.
Waldhausen S‑Line Timeless Double Bridle
Colours: Black
Sizes: Cob or full
RRP: £189.95
Reasons to buy:
- Nicely padded, shaped headpiece for poll comfort
- Stylish curved browband with just enough bling
- Soft, quality leather that feels great from the start
Reason to avoid:
- Only available in two sizes
If you’re after a double bridle that combines smart looks with genuinely useful comfort features, this “timeless” model from Waldhausen gets the balance just right. The anatomical headpiece reduces pressure at the poll and ears, while the gentle padding and pull‑back noseband shape give that tidy, dressage‑friendly silhouette.
The curved browband with fine crystals adds a bit of polish without going overboard. Made from quality European leather and finished cleanly, it’s a well-priced option for riders who want that classic competition look without splashing out on top-end extras.
Shires Velociti Lusso Elite Double Bridle
Colours: Black
Sizes: Cob, full or extra‑full
RRP: £180
Reasons to buy:
- All‑in‑one headpiece design removes extra straps and eases pressure
- Deep, gently tapered noseband and softly padded finish for added comfort
- Good quality, eco‑friendly leather
Reason to avoid:
- Reins are sold separately
A great pick if you’re after a double bridle that combines smart styling with straightforward comfort features without taking out a new credit card. The sleek, all‑in‑one headpiece is designed to remove bulk and avoid pinching around the ears and poll, while the padded noseband and eco‑friendly leather give it a premium feel from the start. The curved browband adds polish without overselling.
Kincade Show Weymouth Bridle
Colours: Black or brown
Sizes: Cob or full
RRP: £68.99
Reasons to buy:
- Traditional flat leather styling, ideal for showing
- Comes complete with laced and curb reins
- Great value for a full double bridle set
Reason to avoid:
- Leather isn’t as supple as more premium options
If you need a smart, straightforward double bridle for the show ring, without breaking the bank, this flat-hunt style option from Kincade does the job. It ticks the traditional boxes – plain leather, clean lines, and a flat cavesson that works for native and hunter types.
It’s not overly padded or shaped, which is exactly what many showing classes call for. And since it includes both sets of reins, it’s ready to go out of the bag – no extras needed. A solid, good-value pick for riders who want the right look without a premium price tag.
HKM Grace Double Bridle
Colours: Black
Sizes: Pony, cob or full
RRP: £105.62
Reasons to buy:
- Soft headpiece and chin‑pad for poll and jaw comfort
- Smart curved browband with subtle crystal detailing adds polish
- Comes with two sets of leather reins and stainless steel fittings
Reason to avoid:
- Simpler build and fewer anatomical features than premium doubles
If you’re looking for a double bridle that hits the right mark between style and everyday usability, the Grace from HKM hits the spot. The padded headpiece and chin‑pad reduce pressure at key points, the curved browband with crystal accents adds a bit of glam, and it comes ready out of the box with reins included. Good leather, smart details, affordable – all in all, a great option for riders who want a dependable double without breaking the bank.
Are double bridles harsh?
They can be – but used correctly they shouldn’t be. A double bridle should be giving you more precision, not more power. It’s all about the rider’s hands. In the right setup and with quiet, educated aids, it can actually give a lighter connection. But if used too soon, or with heavy hands, it can absolutely cause discomfort or confusion. A double bridle is a tool for experienced riders and well-schooled horses – not a shortcut.
What’s the most gentle bridle for a horse?
At the end of the day, it’s the one that fits properly, doesn’t create pressure in the wrong places, and is paired with soft hands. For most horses, that’s usually a simple snaffle with a padded, well-fitting headpiece and a plain cavesson noseband. Some of the newer anatomical bridles are designed to reduce pressure around sensitive areas like the poll and facial nerves, which can make a noticeable difference – especially for horses that tend to fuss in the contact.
When should you start using a double bridle?
Once your horse is going confidently in a snaffle and you’re looking for more refinement and collection. In British Dressage, doubles are allowed from elementary level, but whether you use one is completely up to you – plenty of riders choose to stay in a snaffle all the way to grand prix.
In showing, it depends on the class. Either way, your horse should already be soft, balanced, and accepting of the contact – the double should fine-tune the conversation, not complicate it. If you’re unsure, have a go with a trainer first. It’s not something to rush.
You might also like:
New double bridle research backs up the need to give riders choice across the levels
13 anatomical bridles to ensure maximum comfort
New double bridle rule proposed for international dressage alongside making judges’ comments public
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