The best grackle bridles (also known as figure-of-eight or cross-over bridles) are designed to help prevent the horse from crossing its jaw or opening its mouth. This type of noseband is a variation of the flash. The grackle applies pressure more evenly over a larger area than a flash when the horse evades and allows more room around the nostrils.

If you want to switch to a grackle noseband, you can either buy a complete grackle bridle or the noseband on its own. If you’re buying a single noseband, it’s best to select leatherwork as similar as possible to the rest of your bridle. If you’re buying a new bridle, be aware that many don’t come with a pair of the best reins included, but matching ones are usually available separately.

Best grackle bridles: H&H’s quick guide

Best grackle bridle for the perfect fit: Henry James Saddlery Mexican

Best value grackle bridle: Eco Rider Freedom

Best premium grackle bridle: Antares Origin

Best grackle bridles

Types of grackle bridles

There are two types of grackle bridles – the English and the Mexican, which is sometimes known as the American or high-ring grackle.

The English is fitted with the upper strap of the noseband just below the cheekbones, while the upper strap of the Mexican is fitted higher up the head and has a softer action. The lower strap of both types fastens below the bit.

How to fit a grackle bridle

• The central pad on the noseband of any grackle bridle should sit as high as possible
• When fitting a Mexican grackle bridle, the top rings on the noseband should sit above the projecting cheek bone, with the top straps fastening around the upper jaw
• When fitting an English grackle bridle, the top straps of the noseband should sit underneath the cheek bone
• The lower strap on all grackle bridles should sit comfortably in the chin groove
• If the bridle has buckle fastenings on either side of the face, ideally they should be fastened on the same hole on both sides
• As a rule of thumb, you should be able to fit one finger easily between the horse’s face and the noseband to enable the horse to relax its jaw

• For unlimited access to the latest product news, buying guides and reviews, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You might also like:

13 anatomical bridles to ensure maximum comfort

8 bridles with flash nosebands that you might like in your tack room

8 bitless bridles to consider if you’re thinking of making the switch

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Rebecca Penny shares her thoughts on new classes and tack rule changes as the new showing season gets underway

Finally, it feels like we are getting a break from the relentless rain, and a new season is fast approaching. With it comes change, some of it a positive step forward, and some of it more contentious. I fully support rules that protect equine welfare, yet not every update inspires confidence.

On the positive side, the increasing popularity of the London International has brought some exciting additions. The two new working sports pony classes are a welcome inclusion. So, too, are the first pony of hunter type and cradle stakes at the Royal International (RIHS) as these classes give our younger riders a fantastic introduction to top-level showing.

I’ve managed to attend a couple of winter shows with some newly broken ponies, and I popped along to an unaffiliated event. It was lovely to see classes with 20-plus entries so early in the year, even though I was supposedly out for a quiet outing for purely educational purposes.

Veteran classes have also been introduced to the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) line-up this year, which is undoubtedly a great addition. However, I’m sure I wouldn’t be the only one disappointed to see these classes restricted to amateur riders.

Amateurs are being given more and more opportunities, which is fantastic. However I still believe HOYS should be a showcase for the best horses in the country, regardless of the owner’s status.

It feels like a real kick in the teeth for competitors who don’t fit into that bracket, particularly owners with older horses or ponies that they no longer wish to compete in open classes, but who they have kept and cared for over many years.

Where is the science?

Some of the National Pony Society’s (NPS) newly adopted tack regulations for 2026 raise serious questions.

Take the blanket ban on the Swedish crank noseband, solely adopted by the NPS. This design is entirely legal under FEI rules and widely used in British Dressage.

The FEI is an organisation that has invested significant time, expertise and financial resource into researching tack, biomechanics and equine welfare, so why has the society taken a different stance? What evidence, consultation, or research underpins this decision?

In-depth studies show a properly fitted crank noseband exerts no more pressure than a cavesson. Issues occur predominantly when it is misused, either by incorrect fitting or over-tightening. The use of the FEI noseband measuring tool to spot check seems to be the approach all other associations have followed.

The fact that the NPS has independently adopted this rule also creates conflict when a HOYS qualifier is held at an NPS show, as HOYS rules take precedence, meaning a crank noseband could be used in that class. How can two conflicting tack rules be applied at the same show?

In the context of navigating a crowded ring on a large breed stallion with 20 or more ponies cantering at speed, mares passing in close proximity and heightened levels of excitement, I can understand why a rider might prefer to use a correctly fitted crank noseband. It is typically padded, and designed to distribute pressure in a more stable way should a pony become unsettled and try to cross his jaw.

In such a scenario, a small adult rider, particularly one riding within the permitted 20% weight ratio, has a better chance of maintaining safety and ensuring an enjoyable experience.

It also seems illogical that these regulations can restrict experienced adult riders where control and safety are critical. Yet in stark contrast, novice M&M first ridden classes allow children as young as six or seven to have more freedom over their bitting choice, even though their balance and ability to maintain consistent contact are still developing.

This inconsistency highlights both practical and safety concerns. Rules should be informed, practical, and evidence-based. Ignoring riding realities and established research risks compromising both rider safety and horse welfare.

● What do you think of recent rule and class changes? Let us know at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to have your views published in a future issue of Horse & Hound magazine

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major events, as well as exclusive insights from top names, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You might also enjoy reading:

Do you know a cavesson from a Kineton? The complete guide to nosebands

Transparency or a ‘state of limbo’? HOYS returns to 2024 judging format

New series with £1,000 top prize to reward consistent combinations

From STARS to HOYS: 13 show ring opportunities for amateurs in 2026

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

New research has shown promise around noseband tightness in dressage – but that stress behaviour increases with competition level and judges are not penalising it.

In a study, published in Animals, Czech researchers aimed to assess whether noseband tightness at national competitions would influence how horses “express stress”. But when nearly all of the more than 200 evaluated combinations were found to have correctly fitted nosebands, measured with the FEI tool, the researchers looked at equine stress behaviours across the levels from elementary to grand prix. Noseband type, bridle choice and scores were also considered.

The research found that stress-related behaviours increased with test difficulty; at lower levels, horses showed a wider range of behaviours including mouth opening, tail swishing, behind-the-vertical posture or reluctance. At higher levels, horses showed fewer types of behaviours but more frequently, and mouth-related responses became dominant. Other findings included that horses showed more conflict behaviours in double bridles than snaffles, and from medium level upwards, judges’ scores did not reflect the amount of stress-behaviour shown.

Lead author Simona Fialová of the Brno University of Technology told H&H there were “several important” surprises.

“The disconnect between stress and judging above medium level was striking. Even when horses showed high levels of conflict behaviour – over 70% of the test at grand prix – scores remained unaffected,” she said.

“Perhaps most interesting was the strong effect of noseband style at lower levels; horses ridden with a Swedish crank noseband (with leverage buckles) showed significantly fewer mouth-related issues compared with a plain English cavesson and flash. This deserves deeper investigation, because the reason may relate to pressure distribution.”

Ms Fialová said the findings are consistent with earlier studies showing that technical difficulty and more complex movements “tend to increase stress behaviours” – and that this research “contributed something new”.

“We provide a large set of data across six national levels, demonstrating how the expression of stress narrows as horses progress upward. We also show a remarkably high level of compliance with FEI noseband rules, which has not been documented clearly before,” she said.

“We also want to highlight the practical challenges judges face. At levels like grand prix, where they must count steps, tempi changes and pirouette rotations, their attention is understandably drawn to technical execution rather than welfare-related behaviour. This suggests the potential value of a dedicated harmony or welfare-focused mark.”

• Read the full study

Danish vet and leading animal welfare researcher Mette Uldahl told H&H this was a “thought-provoking” study.

“While noseband tightness is central to the research question, the findings reinforce something that has been shown repeatedly: discipline and level significantly influence the horse’s lived experience under saddle,” she said.

“Across studies, horses competing at higher dressage levels consistently display increased reactivity, more conflict behaviours and more frequent open-mouth behaviour compared to those at lower levels.”

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2026, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested in:

Intro to grand prix: Horse & Hound’s essential guide to dressage levels

New double bridle research backs up the need to give riders choice across the levels

People – not double bridles – are the issue, says study, as education for riders is key

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or leisure rider, understanding how nosebands work and why we use them is key to making informed, horse-friendly choices when deciding which noseband to use, how to fit it and and how tight it should be fastened.

“The noseband has a function, but unfortunately, it is often mistaken as merely keeping the horse’s mouth closed, but there is no place for a noseband that is adjusted to the point that it restricts mouth movement, visually compresses the soft tissues, causes discomfort or constricts the nostrils,” says Russell MacKechnie-Guire of Centaur Biomechanics.

When used correctly, the noseband serves multiple important functions in both training and competition.

“The noseband is not just a tool for controlling the horse’s mouth; it can help stabilise the bridle, ensuring that the bit and headpiece stay in place during movement,” adds Dr Rachel Murray, an equine veterinary surgeon and researcher.

“This stability prevents the bridle from shifting, which can otherwise lead to rubbing, discomfort, and potential damage to the horse’s mouth.”

Another key benefit of the noseband is its ability to hold other supportive accessories, such as nose nets, that can aid in the horse’s welfare.

Noseband fit for comfort

A correctly fitted noseband is crucial to ensuring it functions as intended. Four key areas must be considered: noseband tightness, height, cheekpiece length and padding.

Noseband tightness: traditionally, riders were advised to adjust the noseband so that two fingers could fit between the noseband and the horse’s face. However, the two-finger method was not based on evidence.

Rachel explains, “Recent studies have shown that noseband tightness should not exceed the equivalent of 1.5 fingers, as beyond this point, pressure begins to build up.

“Often it is claimed that the horses are unable to chew whilst wearing a noseband, however, studies have shown that horses with a correctly fitted noseband can chew a treat freely and display no signs of distress.”

This is because noseband pressure fluctuates cyclically as the horse moves, with low pressures during most of the stride and only slight increases when the limbs come in contact with the ground.

Noseband height: the height of the noseband is another vital factor. It should be positioned between the facial crest and the corner of mouth, allowing space below the facial crest to avoid excessive pressure on sensitive areas and leaving room above the mouth to avoid pinching skin between the noseband and the bit. A noseband fitted too high or too low can lead to discomfort, so it’s important that the height and width matches the horse’s anatomy.

Cheekpiece length: the cheekpiece, which holds the noseband, should ideally be fastened so that the buckles align with the corner of the horse’s eye. This ensures that the noseband applies even pressure and prevents discomfort or unnecessary pressure on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which can lead to discomfort or injury over time.

Padding: keeping the bridle clean and supple is important for the horse’s comfort and health, keeping it soft and smooth and avoiding stiff, rough and irritating edges. Padding beneath the noseband, across the nasal bones, and mandibles is useful to help dampen pressures but is not a replacement for keeping a bridle supple and clean. Ensure that a good-quality material is used to prevent the pad from deforming.

Under pressure?

A common misconception is that nosebands, by nature, put constant pressure on a horse’s face, causing discomfort. However, when fitted correctly, noseband pressures are not constant and should not cause any harm.

“As long as the noseband is adjusted to the appropriate level, the pressure should not exceed a threshold that would cause pain or discomfort,” says Rachel.

“In fact, if the noseband is fitted properly, pressure is only exerted when the horse opens its mouth, and this pressure decreases immediately when the mouth is closed again.”

It’s crucial that nosebands be adjusted properly, as over-tightening can lead to consistent pressure.

“When adjusted too tightly, it can compress sensitive tissues, leading to pain and potentially causing behavioural issues due to stress,” adds Rachel. “However, when fitted correctly, the pressure should not be high enough to cause any discomfort or distress.”

Does type matter?

The type of noseband used also plays a role in the comfort and welfare of the horse. There are several different designs, including cavesson, flash, Swedish (crank), and drop nosebands. Each has distinct characteristics, and it’s important to choose one that suits the horse’s conformation and needs.

“The design of the noseband can affect the distribution of pressure,” explains Russell. “For instance, the Swedish noseband, often referred to as a crank noseband, often includes additional padding to help alleviate pressures.”

Interestingly, studies have shown that there is no significant difference in the pressures exerted by a cavesson, Swedish, or flash noseband when adjusted to the same tightness.

The drop noseband, positioned lower on the horse’s nose, typically exerts less pressure compared to the cavesson, but it must be fitted carefully to avoid constricting the nostrils.

It is vital to ensure that whichever noseband is chosen, it is adjusted correctly to prevent discomfort or undue pressure on sensitive areas.

The bigger picture

While the noseband fit is crucial, it’s just one part of the overall bridle. The entire bridle must be fitted to the horse’s individual anatomy to ensure comfort with the headpiece, browband, cheekpieces, and bit all contributing to the horse’s overall comfort and performance.

The headpiece, for example, can be shaped and padded to reduce pressure on the horse’s neck and ears. An anatomical headpiece, designed to alleviate pressure on the TMJ and cervical vertebrae, may be particularly useful for horses who are sensitive in those regions, but not every anatomical headpiece is suitable for every horse.

“Every element of the bridle, from the noseband to the cheekpieces and bit, needs to be evaluated regularly to ensure it’s fitting correctly,” says Rachel. “It’s also important to remember that the bridle and noseband may need adjusting as the horse’s fitness and posture change over time.”

Is no noseband better?

For some, the idea of removing the noseband entirely may seem appealing, especially if the goal is to allow the horse to move freely without restriction. However, removing the noseband can cause instability in the bridle, potentially leading to more movement of the bit, which could increase the risk of oral lesions as the bit rubs against the horse’s mouth.

“While removing the noseband may seem like it would give the horse more freedom, it’s important to consider how it may impact the overall fit and function of the bridle,” says Rachel. “If removing the noseband results in more rein tension or instability, it could ultimately cause more harm than good.”

Before making any changes to a horse’s bridle setup, it’s essential to consult with a qualified bridle fitter and evaluate whether the noseband is truly hindering the horse’s performance.

FEI measuring tool to monitor noseband fit

The FEI introduced a noseband gauge this spring to ensure that nosebands are not overly tight during competitions. This works by measuring the space between the noseband and the horse’s face. The device is a simple, handheld tool that can be placed between the horse’s nose and the noseband. If the gap is smaller than the recommended size, the noseband is considered too tight and must be adjusted to be allowed in FEI competitions.

Russell explains: “The FEI Noseband Gauge is an excellent tool for ensuring the noseband is appropriately adjusted. It provides a clear, objective measure that riders and officials can use to check the welfare of the horse, helping to promote fair competition and horse welfare.”

The introduction of this gauge serves as a step toward more standardised measurements of noseband tightness, offering a clearer guideline for both riders and officials.

Did you like this article? You may also enjoy reading…

Are uniformly loose nosebands the answer to horse sport’s image problems, or ‘the beginning of the end’?

Bitless dressage allowed and nosebands and double bridles optional in new Danish rules

Nosebands made optional and breaks for young horses in welfare-led rule changes

No nosebands, no martingales: meet the five-star rider ‘keeping things simple’

Do you know a cavesson from a Kineton? The complete guide to nosebands

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Riders competing at Addington CDI (29 April–5 May) reported no issues as the FEI’s much discussed new noseband measuring device made its official British debut in competition.

“It’s not as bad as some people might think,” said Carl Hester. “It’ll be like a seat belt eventually – you won’t think twice about it.”

The new check for noseband tightness was officially introduced in FEI competition on 1 May.

Stewards use the small tool by sliding it under the noseband on top the nasal bone, passing it through from the top to the bottom, in the same direction as the horse’s hair. If it fits through, the noseband is deemed acceptable; if not, it’s too tight.

Nikki Barker called it “a bit of a non-event”, adding: “It didn’t take long, it didn’t wind anyone up and it can only be a good thing if everyone’s seen to be conscious of keeping the horses happy.”

If a noseband is found to be too tight, the consequences depend on timing: before a test, riders can simply loosen the noseband; after competition, a failed check means elimination and a yellow warning card.

Riders can choose to have their noseband checked prior to competition if they wish.

Sophie Wells had the stewards check her horse Diana before competing, just to be sure: “We tested it at home, too. If it’s not right after the test, it’s too late – so it’s better to be safe. It all seemed to go down well.”

Where else will the noseband device be used?

The tool can be used at any FEI competition, across the disciplines. Horses can be selected randomly or targeted if not all competitors are checked.

British Dressage has said it intends to introduce the protocol at some national competitions later in the year.

Eventers in Britain were given the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the process at Thoresby’s Eventing Spring Carnival (27-30 March).

For more info

To watch additional videos on the correct use of the device, read the full protocol document [PDF] and purchase your own tool, visit the FEI equine wellness hub

Additional reporting by Oscar Williams

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested in:

Are uniformly loose nosebands the answer to horse sport’s image problems, or ‘the beginning of the end’?

Noseband measuring devices to be trialled in Britain this year

‘Positive move’ as noseband measuring tool to be rolled out at shows

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Back in October I wrote that there is nothing so polarising as the double bridle debate, but things move fast in the world of social licence. Just a few days later, nosebands became the new hot topic, with the announcement of the approved FEI noseband tightness measuring tool to be used on horses at international shows and events across all the disciplines.

The noseband – or rather, the fitting of it – has become a pariah over the past decade or so. Some research suggests tight nosebands are harmful; other research has found that very loose or no nosebands create problems of their own by allowing the rest of the bridle and bit to move too easily out of place. But the general public is now worried about potentially abusive equipment – and this is prodding the FEI to introduce controls that previously researchers and vets have advocated for without success.

Mandatory tightness checks with the tool at international shows (under Art 1044.8 of the 2025 FEI Veterinary Regulations, see page 45) were meant to start on 1 January but have been postponed till 1 May, to give time to train officials and distribute the measuring tool around the world. This is a major logistical challenge though the FEI told H&H they are “on target”. The tool is being made by a major French supplier of plastic components, Groupe Plastivaloire.

Nonetheless the new rule has caught many by surprise, despite being approved by the FEI General Assembly at the end of 2023. Consultation documents show remarkably few objections were lodged at the time, only by the International Dressage Riders Club (IDRC) dressage officials and the German and Irish national equestrian federations – just two of the 136 member countries entitled to a view. GB was in support – and will also trial the tool at British Dressage shows this season.

Anyone failing the test can start their competition if the noseband is loosened to comply with the rules. But if the noseband is found to have been covertly re-tightened again on the field of play, there is non-appealable elimination plus a yellow warning card. In disciplinary terms, therefore, the FEI now regards tight nosebands as more serious than certain instances of blood on the horse (which may be allowed to continue following inspection) or “excessive” use of the whip in eventing and jumping (disqualification and warnings being at the ground jury’s discretion).

But only now, with just three months to go, is the FEI facing resistance from all sides – for different and seemingly incompatible reasons.

The FEI approved tool is a slim black plastic wedge passed under the noseband and (front) nasal bone from top to bottom, for a no-quibble pass or fail (see video below). Some riders don’t want the testing done at all. Others in both dressage and jumping accept the rule is in place but think elimination is too draconian, or don’t like the procedure. Officials are worried about this additional task, when they already have limited time for existing mandatory checks on horses that may be raring to go.

Meanwhile, welfare campaigners welcome mandatory testing in principle, as one would expect. But there is dismay that the FEI has not adopted the tapered tool developed by the International Society for Equitation Science (ISES), which demands a looser fitting noseband. ISES is a “who’s who” of global equine veterinary and research expertise and its noseband tool has been used in many peer-reviewed studies, including by the UK-based team at Centaur Biomechanics as part of the FEI tool development process.

The new rule is also dividing senior figures in the governance of global equestrianism (see more below). This week Theo Ploegmakers, president of the European Equestrian Federation (EEF) publicly warned riders to stop complaining, claiming there are “numerous reports of excessively tight nosebands”.

A look back at nosebands in history

Portraits and sculptures from the Middle Ages to classical times rarely show a horse with a noseband. There is some evidence of noseband use many thousands of years ago, fastened directly over the nostrils to control the horse by impeding its breathing.

In the early renaissance, when equitation developed as an art form, nosebands lined with chains or other sharp objects were used to help “collect” the horse before the curb bit had fully evolved.

For several hundred years the plain cavesson became universal, whatever the bit/s. It also had a useful halter/tying-up function. The standing martingale was invented to be attached to a cavesson, to stop horses throwing their heads too high – a popular solution for excitable horses in the hunting field. For others, the presence of a cavesson was simply cosmetic – riders became so used to it that a bare-faced horse somehow looked under-dressed.

There were no significant variations until the late 19th century when Ernst Seidler of the Spanish Riding School of Vienna invented the “dropped” noseband which had a more focussed action with the bit. In due course, the two-strap “flash” noseband combined both cavesson and drop.

Sometimes a noseband’s name describes its effect graphically; the crank noseband indeed has a levered type of fastening. Others are less obvious. The grakle is named after the strong-pulling 1931 Grand National winner, invented to stop him crossing his jaw. This figure of eight noseband gives a very concentrated pressure on the nasal bone; many reading this will have used a grakle routinely over the years for fast work, cross-country riding and/or showjumping. It is now also permissible in certain levels of dressage.

Around the world it became received wisdom that comfort should be checked by inserting two fingers – however slender or fat – between the noseband and the cheeks – a soft, more yielding part of the horse’s head than the nasal bone. Two fingers were first mentioned in The Pony Club Manual of Horsemanship in 1956.

The cavesson, increasingly supplied with wider and thicker dimensions, now comes under the suspicion of welfare lobbyists, especially in dressage. They cite the growing body of work that shows a tight cavesson can cause discomfort and increased stress levels in itself. Yet it continues to be fitted tight by some to stop the horse opening its mouth during the dressage test, deemed a sign of poor training and hence reduced scores.

Moreover by impeding mouth-opening, a tight noseband can conceal the very internal injuries such as oral lesions, soft tissue compression damage and blue tongues that it may have helped to cause in the first place.

Conversely, respected researchers such as Dr Rachel Murray have previously studied loose nosebands and found that more pressure has been created on a horse’s mouth, because greater rein tension was then needed to create the same desired outcome.

There is growing concern too that some horses strain so hard against a tight noseband that they sustain microfractures in the nasal bone. Another renowned researcher, Prof Paul McGreevy of the University of Sydney co-authored a study in 2020 involving 144 horses at the Mexican cavalry’s high performance competition centre, used for dressage and jumping. In the vicinity of the noseband, X-rays identified bone thinning in 37% of the study group. Bone deposition (where the bone re-generates to repair breakage or damage) was detected in 80% when each of the 144 horses was palpated separately two clinicians, neither of whom knew the purpose of the study. There was a smaller incidence of damage in the lower jaw.

Prof McGreevy said there were no direct causal connections. “But these findings are critical to the advance of ethical equitation that advocates a three-step process for equestrian stakeholders who seek to retain the social licence to operate. It demands that we identify the causes of distress in the horses we ride, that we mitigate these stressors as much as possible, and that we justify the retention of those that cannot be mitigated.”

Data from a new study into noseband-related microfractures is awaiting analysis, H&H understands.

Measuring tool trials and tribulations

Because of the variety of finger sizes, around 2012 ISES devised an objective measuring gauge based on two “average” adult fingers. The ISES tool is a green plastic elongated triangle, inserted from below between the noseband and the (front) nasal bone; to “pass” the lower ledge of the noseband must marry up with a marker point without force. The latest version incorporates templates for bit circumference.

But shortly after its release, the International Dressage Riders Club (IDRC) circulated a petition against measuring, saying there was already provision for stewards to consult the FEI vet over any concerns.

In 2016, one particularly large study led by Dr Orla Doherty of University College, Dublin, found that only 7% of the nosebands worn by 737 international dressage and jumping horses passed the two finger test, and 44% had no room to squeeze anything underneath. But the FEI avoided the issue of noseband testing until the escalating pressure of social licence and the more recent recommendations of its own ethics commission – chaired by Prof Natalie Waran, a founding member of ISES – made objective assessment of tightness unavoidable.

In previous position statements about nosebands, ISES has urged the FEI to adopt the precautionary principle: “where any doubts that may exist in any situation surrounding horse welfare, the outcome should favour the interests of the horse until such time that research reveals there to be no welfare risk”.

So far ISES has not commented on the FEI’s choice. However, one well respected ISES member Cristina Wilkins says it allows 23% less space than the ISES tool and 24% less than the average two adult fingers. “So much for tradition!” she added. “I wish stewards all the best using the pull-through tool. I hope horses don’t start anticipating the pressure increase as it goes through with a bit of a bump.”

A FEI spokesman said: “One of the key aspects was that [the FEI tool] be minimalistic in shape and colour, user-friendly and well tolerated by horses. It was specifically designed as a pass-through tool that is not extracted against the growth of the hair, and with no need for the additional visual check whether the tool has been inserted to the required stop mark.

“We did not want to incorporate additional features such as measurement of the bit size as it would impact the size of the tool.”

The FEI did not explain why the space allowed is smaller than the ISES tool. The rationale has though been set out by the researchers involved.

For obvious practical reasons, most noseband studies have been done while the horse is standing still, and there is still more to be understood about the effects of rein tension and any changes when the horse is moving.

Last year Centaur Biomechanics examined horses in trot, as well as standing and eating a treat, variously wearing cavesson, drop, flash and crank nosebands. Readings from pressure mats on the face found that reducing the “slack” under between noseband and (front) nasal bone from a two to 1.5 finger space “did not significantly increase pressure on the horse’s head and was not within a range at which pain or tissue damage would be expected to occur”.

Will one size fit all?

While dressage is the main subject of public scrutiny, nosebands will be measured in all FEI disciplines.

The official FEI video (shown above) shows a horse wearing a flash noseband. There are no publicly available guidelines about its efficacy with the multi-component or hybrid noseband/bit set-ups popular in the jumping disciplines.

Eventing riders and officials have less access to the FEI rules consultation process than the dressage and show jumping community, because no eventing stakeholder groups currently have a Memorandum of Understanding with the FEI.

Andy Griffiths, chairman of the International Eventing Officials Club, was supportive of any welfare initiative but worried about the additional burden on officials “who are, after all, volunteers”. He pointed out they are responsible for the smooth running of three different phases over a weekend and will have to find time to test horses in each phase as each horse may be using two or three different bridles during their competition.

Making a drama out of a crisis?

At the recent International Jumping Riders Club (IJRC) annual meeting, the FEI’s head of jumping Todd Hinde revealed that just three nosebands of 600 failed when tested with the new tool at a CSI in Belgium last summer. This caused IJRC president Francois Mathy jnr to caution the FEI against allowing the public to think tight nosebands are rife.

“I would like to trust a little bit more the horsemanship of the stewards, and then use the device if needed to settle a disagreement,” Mr Mathy said. “But if we test every horse in every class at every show, and make it into a drama, we send a message to the public that everyone must be tightening it too much.”

Former Olympic showjumping champion Ludger Beerbaum flagged up the need to educate and inform the public, rather than to demonise equipment or lay blame with one discipline, assuring the dressage riders that “we are in this together”. A well-fitted bridle stabilises the bit to ensure riders communicate aids “in the right doses”, he said.

“Now we are destroying this, only because a vet or horse welfare people are saying that we need this wide-open noseband, so the horses can play with the tongue, and the jaw is going left and right. Of course, we don’t want a super-tight noseband, but the goal of a noseband is to be productive.

“If we continue like this in five years time we will be talking about not riding with a bridle, and a rope around the neck. This is the beginning of the end, I am telling you.”

Opinions are sharply divided in the corridors of power, too.

Two influential figures, Stephan Ellenbruch and Klaus Roeser, have called for a re-think over the testing protocol.

Mr Ellenbruch is a FEI board member and chair of the FEI jumping committee. He has heard many concerns about the procedure from stewards, and wondered if the consultation process had been ushered through “a little too fast”.

He said: “We will not be able to delay this [noseband testing] significantly, and we will not be able to change the rule because it is a decision of the FEI General Assembly. But I really do think we should sit down with the jumping and dressage riders, to find a compromise about the procedure. This is the minimum we should try to achieve, and I know I won’t be popular within the FEI with this proposal.”

Mr Roeser is secretary general of the IDRC, chairman of the German national dressage committee, a board member at the EEF and member of the newly announced FEI dressage strategic group. In December he bluntly criticised the testing protocol and the alleged lack of information available last year from FEI HQ. He said it was a “joke” that stakeholders were given 8 January as a deadline to feedback on the tool when no-one could obtain a sample.

He thinks testing should be over the cheeks, using two fingers, not the gauge: “otherwise we have this stupid, loose noseband which in dressage is much more of a problem than for other disciplines.”

But EEF president Theo Ploegmakers says rider resistance to noseband testing “is shortsighted and poses a danger to horse welfare”.

He added: “Even experts can make mistakes: while top riders may have significant experience, they are not infallible. They can misjudge a situation, succumb to pressure to perform, or make decisions influenced by personal biases or emotions.

“Lack of oversight invites abuse. Without standardised rules, there is no mechanism to prevent or address mistreatment. The assumption that expertise guarantees ethical behaviour is risky, as not all riders may prioritise horse welfare above success or financial gain.”

Read more H&H exclusive news investigations from Pippa Cuckson

Why we are seeing blue tongues in dressage arenas – and what needs to be done about it

The history of hyperflexion in dressage training – and how the sport can move away from it

The double bridle debate – the facts, the opinions… and the politics

How horse abuse is penalised in sport – and the challenges of bringing a case before the FEI Tribunal

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A gauge to measure noseband tightness will be trialled by British Dressage (BD) late this year, before its national implementation in 2026.

The introduction of the device, which must pass freely under the noseband on top of the nasal bone, has been delayed in FEI competition until this May, but will be piloted by BD in late 2025. BD said it will notify riders “in advance of any competition or championship to confirm when this universal measuring tool will be used”.

In other welfare-related BD changes, trimming the hair “within the rims of the auricles” – the visible part of a horse’s outer ear – is banned from July. The only exception is when the hair has been clipped for veterinary treatment, in which case riders must submit a certificate to BD’s head office for verification.

A new maximum whip length has been introduced across all BD competition levels; whips may now be no longer than 1.2m (measured from the top of the handle to the very end), 1m on ponies.

As part of BD’s four-year equine welfare action plan, it has also updated its complaints and disciplinary procedures and introduced a new whistleblowing policy.

“BD recognises that the decision to make an allegation can be a difficult one,” a spokesperson said. “However, [BD] will take appropriate action to protect a whistleblower who makes a serious allegation in the reasonable belief that it is in the public interest to do so.”

Whistleblowers are encouraged to make allegations to BD CEO Jason Brautigam directly and will receive an acknowledgement in writing within five working days.

There will be no repercussions for whistleblowers who make an allegation in the “reasonable belief that is in the interest of the welfare and wellbeing of the general public to do so” but “disciplinary action may be taken against a whistleblower who makes an allegation frivolously, carelessly, maliciously, or for personal gain.”

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested in:

‘Positive move’ as noseband measuring tool to be rolled out at shows

‘The kind of change needed in horse sport’: British Dressage launches equine welfare action plan

A ‘massive step’ as new whip and spur rules are making a difference

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Nosebands will be optional at all levels of Swedish dressage from January, and rising trot will be allowed in some classes, as part of work to benefit horse welfare.

The Swedish equestrian federation is also mandating a minimum two-week break between competitions in all disciplines for four-year-old horses and ponies.

“Freedom of choice is in focus when horse welfare is strengthened in Swedish competition regulations,” a spokesperson for the federation said, adding that the decision to make nosebands optional is a direct result of proposals submitted to the federation last July.

“The option to opt out of the noseband means riders can adapt their equipment based on the horse’s individual needs, instead of it having to be adapted according to tradition,” said Andrea Barth, the federation’s sport manager.

The new competition rules (TR) for dressage will apply from 1 January 2025 and include “several changes that together contribute to stronger horse welfare”.

“During the proposal round in 2023, when everyone can submit proposals for rule changes, 10% of all proposals in dressage were about freedom of choice with a noseband,” a spokesperson for the federation said. “The dressage committee chose to proceed with the rule change as part of the federation’s work for increased horse welfare.”

Rising trot is now allowed in dressage classes up to novice B3 level, roughly equivalent to novice in Britain, as “another change that promotes horse welfare through freedom of choice”.

“This is the result of submitted proposals that came back in 2021 before TR 2023, when a pilot project with specific [rising trot] classes was also introduced to test the concept,” the spokesperson said. “After positive results, the change can now be introduced widely.”

Ms Barth added: “We work continuously for increased horse welfare through adaptations of both competition regulations and our operations. We always want to ensure that we have a broad basis for the changes we drive so that they produce the desired effect. The suggestions that come in during the work to update and develop TR are incredibly valuable to us.”

A change that applies in all disciplines affects four-year-old horses and ponies, who must have a minimum break of 14 days between one competition and the next.

“The Swedish federation’s competition regulations (and code of conduct) exist to ensure horse welfare during competition and to make competitions as fair as possible for both horses and people,” the spokesperson said.

“TR sets standards for all forms of riding, training and handling of horses, which means it is one of the most important tools to ensure good horse welfare in all parts of equestrian sport.”

The rules are revised every two years, always starting with a proposal round during which anyone can submit suggestions.

“The TR process is created to combine democratic influence with a simultaneous assurance that the rules are optimally designed,” the spokesperson said.

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout major shows such as London International and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested in:

How government backing can make riding accessible to everyone

‘Positive move’ as noseband measuring tool to be rolled out at shows

The double bridle debate – the facts, the opinions… and the politics

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The FEI is looking to tighten its noseband rules by moving away from fingers to a standardised way of measuring.

The move would also include elimination and a yellow card for those found to be using over-tightened nosebands in competition.

The suggestions are made in the first draft of 2024 FEI rules, released on 28 June, and would bring all disciplines into line. The FEI’s rules revision process means national federations and stakeholders have until 16 August to give feedback.

The proposed change came from a recommendation by the FEI equine ethics and wellbeing commission. This was for a “general provision harmonising the approach measuring the tightness of nosebands” across disciplines, using an “FEI objective measuring tool”.

Questions remain, such as how and where tightness will be measured, but the intention is to have answers in coming weeks in order for this to be a full proposal by the autumn.

“‘Fingers’ are a subjective measuring unit, as they differ in size and as such do not provide consistency in measurements of noseband tightness at FEI events,” states the FEI explanation.

“The FEI proposes to introduce an FEI objective measuring tool, which will provide the repeatability and consistency in measuring the tightness of nosebands. This will ensure that the same horse welfare standards are applied globally across all FEI events while providing clarity for all FEI stakeholders.”

It is also notable that the FEI intends to outline protocols for measuring nosebands in a “flexible document, not regulated in the rules, and amended if needed”. This means that it could, theoretically, be changed and added to without having to go through the FEI’s lengthy rules revision process.

The proposed rule states that nosebands – upper and lower – “must be adjusted with sufficient laxity”. The consequences of an “excessively tightened” noseband would be that pre-competition, the horse and rider would not be allowed to start unless the noseband is loosened; during combination, they would be eliminated and the rider given a yellow warning card.

New equestrian charter

The FEI is also seeking to add an “equestrian charter” to its rules for 2024, which acknowledges horses’ wellbeing, sentience and that welfare is a priority (news, 4 May).

“Equine welfare involves the physical, psychological, social and environmental wellbeing of the horse, and all horses involved in sport and leisure activities should be able to live a good life,” it states.

It would require all those involved in horse sport to uphold three pledges. These are to “understand it is a privilege to involve horses in sport and this comes with responsibilities to the horse”, to commit to respecting the horse “as a sentient creature capable of feeling both positive and negative emotions, and to ensure its welfare is always my priority”. And to “continually develop” understanding of equine behaviour and welfare needs, and to proactively use this knowledge to provide a “good life for horses with which I am involved”.

Other proposed rule changes

An increase in the minimum age of event horses at the top level, a suggestion of an under-25 Europeans, plus a rejig of minimum eligibility requirements for horses returning to competition are all also being considered.

The French federation has put forward the idea of upping the minimum age of event horses eligible to compete at senior Europeans, and at five-star, from eight to nine years old.

“We propose to increase by one year the minimum age of horses in order to emphasise on the progressive pathway needed to access to that level. It contributes to horse welfare measures,” states the French submission.

The FEI agreed, adding that this “would be beneficial from a horse welfare point of view”.

The German and Irish federations both “strongly” recommended the introduction of an under-25 European Eventing Championships “most preferably at CCI4*-L”. Although the sport is unlikely to see this in 2024, it is on the table for the future.

The FEI’s eventing committee said it is a “good proposal to bridge the age gap”, suggesting it be included in the next revision of the eventing rules.

“For risk management reasons this addition could provide an intermediate level between young riders and seniors competitions,” said the FEI eventing committee.

Teething problems with the “problematic” 2023 rule on event horses returning to competition following a break will also be attempted to be ironed out for next year.

The current rule requires four- and five-star horses who have been away from FEI competition for 13 months or more to achieve a qualifying run at the level below, before stepping back up. But the way the current rule is implemented has caused a “cascading effect”, meaning certain horses are dropping down more than one level. The FEI has tweaked the wording to fix this.

The final draft of 2024 rules will be released in October, ready to be voted on at the FEI general assembly in November and come into force next year.

You might also be interested in:

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Plan to allow dressage riders to ditch their spurs completely at top level

Calls for changes to elimination rule over ‘serious concerns’

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

New data has shone a light on riders’ attitudes to noseband tightness – as Canada takes steps towards implementing new tack rules.

In January, H&H reported that Equestrian Canada (EC) had launched a noseband-measuring pilot project, with the view of implementing a rule that reflects scientific recommendations; that a horse’s noseband “should not be tight enough to prevent the placement of two adult fingers between the noseband and the frontal nasal plane” (news, 13 January).

Currently EC’s rules say that abuse of horses at EC-sanctioned competitions is not tolerated. Acts of cruelty can include nosebands used in such a way that they interfere with the horse’s breathing, or tight enough to cause pain or discomfort.

As part of the project stewards measured the tightness of 551 nosebands across 32 competitions using the International Society for Equitation (ISES) taper gauge, a tool that precisely measures the space between the noseband and nasal plane. More than 1,500 EC members also took part in a survey on noseband fit – and potential rule changes.

Researchers have now published the findings from the work, in Animals. Of the 551 measurements taken, 71% passed the 1.5cm (two fingers) measurement; 19% passed 1cm (one finger); and 10% were too tight to fit the taper gauge. Stewards unanimously agreed that over-tightened nosebands present a welfare issue; 60% believed the current rules are sufficient and 40% did not. Stewards also commented on other issues, such as nosebands being positioned too high or too low.

Of the 1,528 survey respondents, only 181 professional riders felt over-tightened nosebands were a welfare issue, compared to 613 amateur competitors. Overall, 326 of respondents said being able to fit only one finger between the noseband and nasal plane was acceptable. Just over 74% of respondents mostly agreed that all disciplines should have the same standardised rules for noseband fit and that a measurement gauge was a fair method to measure this – but only 65% agreed that noseband fit should be measured at the nasal plane.

The researchers discussed that noseband fit depended on many factors, including the breed and conformation of the horse and the type of noseband used.

“While the noseband taper gauge admittedly cannot account for all types of head conformation, it is within the realm of science to create a gauge that could,” they said.

“For now, though, a standardised rule across the board may not be well received by competitors who already feel weighed down by rules.”

The researchers concluded that misinformation and misunderstanding of noseband research was evident, indicating a need for the education of riders and coaches on the importance of appropriate noseband fit – and the consequences of over-tightened nosebands.

“Making nosebands optional in disciplines that currently require them was suggested. Despite differing viewpoints, there was a clear desire to improve equine quality of life,” they said.

An EC spokesman told H&H the body launched the project to investigate the need for and acceptance of new standards to noseband measuring, before they formulated a rule-change proposal.

“EC is keen to share and support the results of the paper as well as the data collected to further inform the community and provide information regarding the rule change proposal that has been submitted to the national rules committee,” said the spokesman.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Nosebands and bit type are only a “small part of the puzzle” when it comes to bridle fit – and more consideration should be given to the individual horse.

This was among the messages highlighted during the recent World Horse Welfare webinar, Bridle fit – why getting it right is so important (1 June). Vet and researcher Rachel Murray, of Rossdales Diagnostic Centre, and Society of Master Saddlers saddle and bridle fitter Di Fisher discussed why ensuring a bridle fits properly is so important for performance and horse welfare.

“I’m sure we are all really well aware how important saddle fit is for our horses, and what can happen if we continue to ride and train our horses with ill-fitting saddles, but the reality is many of us don’t place the same importance on correct bridle fit,” said World Horse Welfare chief executive Roly Owers, who hosted the webinar.

Dr Murray gave a presentation based on previous research around the importance of good bridle fit, the issues that can be caused when a bridle is unstable or sits on pressure points – and the importance of regular dental care.

“There have been concerns raised about nosebands and bits particularly in competition horses and this has led to the introduction of measurements of noseband tightness with national federations. This is based on a number of different areas of research; however, there has been little discussion about the rest of the bridle because the focus tended to be on the noseband,” said Dr Murray, who added that the noseband should not be thought of as a problem, but for its “positive role“ in stabilising the bridle.

“Noseband tightness and bit type are really important but they’re only a small part of the jigsaw, and it’s vitally important to consider the whole bridle. There are real opportunities now to use current knowledge to guide recommendations for bridle fit.”

Dr Murray discussed the various nerves and muscles in horses’ heads and that these affect many different structures throughout the body. She said the take-home message is “remembering the anatomy underneath the bridle”.

“If you get it right, your horse will perform better as well as feel better because you’re impacting the whole horse’s body,” she said.

Ms Fisher agreed with Rachel and encouraged owners to be aware of each individual horse’s conformation.

“Consider whether your horse has got enough room at the noseband, look at the headpiece and just look at the bridle to see if you can do anything to help your horse and give it a bit more comfort,” she said, adding that no two horses’ heads are the same shape and that one bridle will not fit every horse.

“Many manufacturers have changed the way they make their bridles – they have anatomical headpieces now and most of the cheaper brands have these, too. It’s a case of looking at the different bridles within your budget and trying to find one that is going to suit your horse’s anatomy.”

You might also be interested in:

Education key to changing views on tight nosebands

One in four horses’ bits don’t fit, research finds

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

As knowledge of the horse’s anatomy increases, so does the proliferation of anatomical bridles and types of noseband. Like all pieces of tack, finding the right noseband to suit your horse can be the difference between a happy partnership and an unhappy horse and rider. With such a wide range of choices on the market, you should be able to find the perfect noseband for your needs.

If you are currently having problems getting your horse to accept the contact or are lacking control, there are some important questions to ask yourself before a different type of noseband:

• Is your horse uncomfortable because of dental problems?
• Are resistances in his mouth a sign that he is uncomfortable somewhere else or finds the work too difficult for his stage of training?
• Are your rein aids too strong?

Remember that a horse’s mouth and jaw need to be soft and relaxed for him to accept the bit. If you strap his mouth shut with a tight noseband, you could cause more problems. Nosebands should never be fastened too tightly as this can jeopardise horse welfare. As a guide, you should be able to fit at least two fingers between the noseband and the face.

In theory, nosebands that fasten below the bit should only be used with a snaffle bit to avoid conflict between the bottom strap and a curb chain. In practice, many riders use flash or grakle nosebands with pelhams or kimblewicks, especially for showjumping and cross-country.

Nosebands are usually sold in pony, cob and full sizes. As with all bridle parts, when buying a noseband take the dimensions of your horse’s head into account. For example, a thoroughbred with a narrow muzzle may need a cob size while a stocky mountain and moorland may take a cob or full size.

If you compete in dressage or eventing, check your rulebook, as not all types of noseband are permitted.

Common types of noseband for horses

The cavesson noseband

The cavesson is the simplest noseband and gives a smart appearance. It can also be used for attaching a standing martingale to, if you need to use one.

Action: the action of a cavesson noseband is very slight, unless it is used with a standing martingale. This, or the crank noseband, is the only sort which should be used with a double bridle.

Fitting: to make sure the cavesson is fitted correctly, you should be able to place two fingers between the horse’s protruding cheek bone and the body of the noseband. You should be able to comfortably slide at least one finger between the noseband and your horse’s face all the way round.

The flash noseband

The flash noseband was originally invented so that a standing martingale could be attached to the top (cavesson) part, while the bottom strap fastens below the bit to prevent the horse from opening its mouth wide to evade the bit.

Action: helps prevent a horse opening his mouth too wide, but is not as definite in its action as some designs. Some horses accept it better for this reason. It also helps keep a jointed loose ring snaffle central in the mouth. Beware flashes with narrow cavessons, as they tend to slide down the nose.

Fitting: adjust the top part so you can slide a finger all round and the bottom strap to fit two fingers between it and the horse’s nose.

The crank noseband

The crank noseband, which is also called a cinchback or doubleback, is designed to be fastened snugly around the horse’s nose, without a buckle to dig into the back of the horse’s jaw. This style of noseband can be used with any type of bit.

Action: helps prevent a horse from opening/crossing his jaw when you can’t use a noseband which fastens below the bit and is popular with dressage riders who use double bridles. Some people don’t like it because some riders over-tighten it to prevent the horse from opening the mouth at all. Can cause calluses if it is repeatedly fastened too tight.

Fitting: similar to the cavesson, but fitted more snugly. It shouldn’t touch the protruding cheek bones, nor should the skin be pinched when the contact on the bit is taken up by the rider.

A rope noseband is stronger than traditional leather, and can be used to give more control on a strong horse than a regular cavesson or as an alternative to the crank. They are also available with flash attachment.

The drop noseband

Traditionally these nosebands adjusted at the front and the back, but most now fasten only at the back.

Action: prevents a horse opening his mouth to resist the contact, but has a more definite action than the flash. Some horses respond well but others resent it. The low pressure point in front and pressure in the curb groove at the back is said by some to encourage a horse to lower his head.

Fitting: if fitted too low, it can interfere with a horse’s breathing so make sure it’s at least six centimetres above the nostrils on the solid part of the horse’s nose and you can slide a finger all the way round. Never fasten a standing martingale to a drop.

There are new designs that aim to combine the effects of the cavesson with a drop noseband, such Dy’on’s double noseband. This controls the shifting of the jaw, limits the mouth opening and is designed for strong horses.

The grackle noseband

The grackle noseband is named after the hard-pulling winner of the 1931 Grand National and is particularly popular with event riders for the cross-country phase. It’s sometimes called a figure of eight or crossover noseband because of its shape. It is also a common choice for racehorses – it can help the horse relax, settle and therefore breathe better.

Action: designed to prevent a horse opening his mouth and crossing his jaw, the front crossover point of the grackle is the main pressure point. The straps pass through a slotted leather circle, which usually has a sheepskin backing.

Fitting: the leather circle should be on the centre front of the nose, with the top straps just below the facial bones to avoid rubbing. Allow at least a finger’s width between top and bottom straps and the horse’s jaw.

A later version of this noseband, usually called the American, Mexican or high-ring grackle, has a top strap which starts higher up the face. It has a “softer” action and some horses prefer it.

You can also buy an elastic grackle, which provides the action of the grackle but without the restriction of the leather that some horses fight against.

Other types of noseband: for strong horses

Sheepskin, Australian cheeker, Worcester, Kineton and combination nosebands are designed to give extra control for particular problems.

A sheepskin noseband is a simple sheepskin sleeve that fits over a cavesson or the cavesson part of a flash and is designed to persuade a horse who holds his head too high to carry it lower, because when he raises his head, he cannot see over the fluffy sheepskin.

The Australian cheeker is two rubber bit rings connected by a central rubber strap which fastens to the bridle headpiece. It is commonly used in racing. It’s said to persuade pullers to “back off” from the sight of the central strap and to have a psychological rather than physical effect. It also helps to keep the bit high enough in the mouth to prevent the horse putting his tongue over it.

The Kineton, or Puckle, noseband applies strong nose pressure via two U-shaped metal loops which pass behind the bit rings, so rein pressure is transferred to the nose. This has a severe action.

The combination or lever noseband has a half-moon piece of metal that goes on each side of the horse’s face. A piece of leather attaches to the top end of the metal curve (near the horse’s cheek bone), which runs under the jaw and attaches to the other side of the face. In the middle of the metal curve, a piece of leather runs over the top of the nose, acting as the main noseband, but it sits slightly lower than a standard cavesson — somewhere between a cavesson and a drop noseband. A third piece of leather runs from the bottom of the metal curve under the chin groove of the horse. This noseband is similar in design to the grackle, and works by preventing the horse from crossing his jaw, which gives the rider more control.

You may also be interested to read…

8 bridles with flash nosebands that you might like in your tack room

13 anatomical bridles to ensure maximum comfort

8 grackle bridles for a range of budgets

Study questions tight noseband ethics after bone damage found

Researchers asked two independent vets to look a sample of 144 mature warmblood cavalry horses

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Science and education are key to changing views on the tightness of nosebands, industry experts have agreed.

Last year, Equestrian Canada (EC) launched a “noseband measuring pilot project” with the view of implementing a rule that reflects scientific recommendations; that a horse’s noseband “should not be tight enough to prevent the placement of two adult fingers between the noseband and the frontal nasal plane”.

As finger size can vary, the EC equine health and welfare committee has recommended the standardised use of the International Society for Equitation Science (ISES) taper gauge, a tool that precisely measures the space between the noseband and the nasal plane.

During the voluntary project, competition stewards measured the tightness of 550 nosebands across EC-sanctioned competitions using the ISES tool. Data was collected to compare current compliance with the proposed rule, identify where education was needed, record competitor willingness to comply, look at the practicality of using the tool and the training requirements for assessing compliance.

Following the project, EC hosted a webinar in November during which panellists discussed the theme, “How science can be applied to improve noseband tightness in Canadian equestrian sport”. World Horse Welfare chief executive Roly Owers led the meeting, featuring panellists EC stewards Diane Goyette, Susan Legge, Brett Filson, and Allan Ehrlick.

The topic of social licence was raised, with Mr Owers stating that he believes social licence, essentially public acceptance of a practice, will help secure equestrian sport in future.

“Social licence is all about that unwritten contract we have with society today and society is changing all the time, especially its views about animals. We can see that when we think about circuses and zoos, but also within equestrian sport,” he said.

“The way we can protect our sport is by behaving with trust, transparency and building confidence with the public. How we can do that in part, is by having rules and regulations in our sport built on evidence and that evidence in a large part comes from science.”

Ms Legge said the equestrian world is looking at the application of scientific criteria to its relationships with horses with a “higher level of integrity than ever before”.

“EC’s support of the project demonstrates a commitment to improving horse welfare by developing a system of consistent measurement that can be applied easily and accurately. Nosebands can be a useful training tool or they can be a discomfort to the horse, so the more we know about fit and impact on the anatomy, the better we can do for our horses,” she said.

“Being aware of the impact of items like nosebands creates responsible riders and handlers, so for me the ISES gauge is so useful because it demonstrates consistency, which results in trust of the tool and the process. With trust in the fairness of the system comes cooperation, so the ultimate result is not just compliance with a rule but the desire to do better. This is positive science in action.”

Mr Ehrlick, a former Olympic eventer, said he found riders of all ages willing to learn about noseband tightness when he performed measuring at competitions.

“The youngest person was eight and the oldest was 81. The interesting connection is that they were both willing to learn why we were doing this,” he said, adding that when he asked for a noseband to be loosened, he was later thanked by the rider following their competition round.

“Our job is to educate about horse welfare; science is about learning and learning is about teaching. I stewarded 68 days [during 2021] and by the last two shows, I had people lining up saying, ‘Can you measure my noseband?’ They wanted to be seen by others that they were being checked and the word spread, it was quite popular. I think the tool worked.”

The panellists discussed different styles of nosebands and it was agreed that padded crank nosebands, often worn in dressage, were usually found to be done up more tightly. It was noted that the panellists did not find tight nosebands as much at hunter shows, compared to dressage and jumper shows.

“I am concerned that nosebands have been too tight in dressage for years,” said Mr Filson, a senior dressage steward. “[It’s] not across the board, but at the most senior level. I have been at shows where I have had competitors whose nosebands were so tight that when they came out of the ring, I’ve said, ‘If you don’t loosen that, you’re not going back in – end of story.” It’s been a problem for a long time and I’m thrilled we’re doing something about it.

“The education that we started in the summer was helpful. If we have a consistent noseband tool, we’re going to get consistent results, education and positive change. If we have to get to the point of consequences [for nosebands being too tight], then let’s make sure the consequences are very real and enforceable.”

You might also be interested in:

Understanding horses’ happiness key to equestrian sport’s future

Horse sport must demonstrate sound ethics to survive

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A British international rider has called for clearer rules on the fitting of nosebands after receiving a yellow card for “abuse of horse”.

British young rider team member Charlotte Dicker received an FEI yellow card on 15 July at the junior and young rider European championships in Fontainebleau, France, as her 13-year-old mare Sabatini’s noseband was deemed too tight when inspected by a steward after Charlotte’s individual test on 13 July.

“I can confirm that the ground jury at the 2018 FEI young rider championships gave me a yellow card after the stewards reported at the tack inspection after my individual test that my noseband was tight,” said 19-year-old Charlotte.

“I used the same soft, padded leather noseband the day before in the team test, done up on the same hole, and have done so in all my competitions this season, from Premier Leagues to CDIs, and never had a comment from a steward.

“My horse Sabatini is my world and I would never do anything to compromise her welfare or cause her discomfort however I accept the decision,” added Charlotte, who was the highest scoring British rider in the team test in Fontainebleau on 12 July, earning 71.12% to finish 10^th.

The current FEI rule on noseband tightness states: “Neither a cavesson noseband nor a curb chain may ever be as tightly fixed so as to harm the horse”, and Charlotte has called for clarification and standardisation on the rule.

“To have a standardised measure of what’s too tight would make it a clear rule rather than an individual’s opinion so, as riders, we won’t be caught out as I have,” she said.

“I will take this as a valuable lesson learned and continue to train and compete with the sympathy, compassion and feel that has been instilled in me from an early age.”

The noseband protocol within the FEI stewards’ manual reads: “One and the same steward must conduct the noseband check for all horses entered in the same competition. The tightness check must be done with the steward’s index finger between the horse’s cheek and the noseband. The steward must wear gloves during this check.

“Ideally the finger size of stewards appointed for the noseband check at different competitions throughout the event shall be of similar size.

Continues below…

New Zealand acts to bring an end to tight nosebands

The move to address tight nosebands in competition follows scientific studies and consultation with vets

Do you know a cavesson from a Kineton? The complete guide to nosebands

Use of spurs, nosebands, bits and draw reins in competition called into question

“In case of an apparent overtightened noseband during the horse’s warm-up, the appointed tack control steward is entitled to conduct the check also during the warm-up and, in case of the noseband being over tightened, ask the athlete to loosen the noseband. The noseband of the horse will be checked again by the same steward after the horse has finished the test. If the noseband is still too tight after the second check, the chief steward will give a yellow warning card to the athlete.”

Charlotte and the Hanoverian mare Sabatini, who is by Stedinger, have been competing internationally together for three years, coming up through juniors and young riders.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Action to prevent tight nosebands being used in dressage competitions is being taken by the New Zealand equestrian federation (ESNZ).

The dressage arm of ESNZ has agreed a rule change, which alters where on the horse’s face the noseband tightness is measured.

The new rule states: “No noseband may ever be so tightly fixed that it will harm the horse. It must be possible to place one finger comfortably between the noseband and the nasal planum (front of the nose).”

Previously, the tightness was measured on the side of the face.

“The Dressage New Zealand Committee were unanimous in its view that the previous rule, which required the noseband to be loose enough to fit one finger under the nose band on the side of the face, was not adequate to prevent nosebands being fixed so tightly that they may cause harm,” Scott McKenna, Dressage New Zealand’s technical officer told H&H.

“This view was informed by the most recent scientific studies on the subject, plus the comments and advice of two veterinarians who were in attendance at the conference, including associate professor Chris Rogers from Massey University.

“Dressage New Zealand is investigating the use of a standardised measurement system to enforce this rule in a fair and consistent way and will also continue to monitor the situation to ensure the rule is effective.

“In particular we will continue to monitor whether the implemented standard of one finger on top of the nose is adequate or whether another standard, such as two fingers on top of the nose is required.”

Article continues below…

You might also be interested in:

Tight nosebands outlawed by national federation

The new rule is to be introduced from 1 January 2018 following research linking tight nosebands to mouth lesions

The Danish equestrian federation introduced a noseband tightness limit in January, which states that there must be a gap of at least 1.5cm between the horse’s nasal plate and noseband.

Officials can check the tightness of a noseband if they believe it is too tight and ask a rider to loosen it. There are sanctions for riders who refuse to loosen nosebands and for repeat offenders.

British Dressage does not specify an exact measurement relating to the noseband tightness in its 2018 rulebook, but it does state that tack must be correctly fitted to avoid pain, injury and discomfort.

In this week’s Horse & Hound magazine, out on Thursday 12 July 2018, don’t miss our ‘Rider fitness’ special including what top riders eat, fitness for across the disciplines and more.

Plus, read our interview with Royal Ascot-winning trainer Eve Johnson Houghton and in this week’s ‘Vet clinic’ we take a look at bacterial meningitis in horses. We also have reports from eventing action at Barbury, racing from Sandown Park and much more.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A noseband tightness limit is to be enforced in all disciplines in Denmark from 2018.

The move follows research by the Danish equestrian federation, headed by FEI vet Mette Uldahl, which found a correlation between tight nosebands and mouth lesions.

The 2018 rule will require a gap of 1.5cm between the horse’s nasal plate and the noseband (see illustration above).

Selected technical delegates will be trialling measurement methods at 2017 events in readiness for the rule change. No sanctions for too-tight nosebands will be imposed this year.

“From 1st January 2018, officials will check at the venues if there is a suspicion that the noseband is too tight,” said a statement from the federation.

“The aim is to ensure in cooperation with the riders that riding at the venues always takes place with sufficient governance of horse welfare.

“If officials find that a noseband is too tight, the rider will be asked to loosen it according to the rules, after which the competitor can participate in the competition.

“If the rider refuses to loosen the noseband, or if there are repeated violations of the noseband tightness rules, sanctions will be imposed.”

The federation started the study in 2014 to record types of riding equipment and tack used on competition horses and establish the impacts these have.

The results are expected to be published in a scientific journal by the end of this year.

More than 3,000 eventers, showjumpers, dressage and endurance horses were examined in the study.

The bit and type of noseband were recorded, the tightness of the noseband measured and the corners of the horses’ mouths inspected for lesions and blood.

Some horses were recorded as having oral lesions, most of them in dressage.

According to the study, the there was a “very clear correlation” between the tightness of the noseband and the occurrence of these lesions.

“The tighter the noseband was, the more oral lesions were recorded,” adds the statement from the federation.

“Horse/rider combinations at higher level of competition had a higher prevalence of oral lesions than at lower level.

“Based on these findings the regulation of noseband tightness is found to be an important focus area in the aim of reducing the frequency of oral lesions findings in competition horses at all levels.”

Article continues below…

You might also be interested in:

Tight nosebands can cause distress, study finds

Researchers found horses showed physiological stress responses when

Spurs and whips

The researchers found a low proportion of horses had spur-associated lesions or worn hair on the flanks.

“The study indicated that spurs are technically more difficult to use correctly for riders at a low level of competition compared to riders at a higher level of competition,” said the federation’s statement.

“For all riders, regardless of level, a relatively longer spur presented a significantly greater risk of finding hair on the spur and worn hair on the horse’s ribcage compared to a shorter spur.

“We are pleased that the occurrence of lesions caused by spurs was relatively low, but we will use the results and the correlations found as a tool for future control of equipment and training of the riders.”

Horses were also inspected for lesions on their shoulders and quarters from use of the whip.

Incidences of lesions in these areas were “very low”.

The federation added that it is “pleased” at the lack of these incidences, but is aware individual cases of lesions from use of the whip must be identified and addressed at events.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Opinion

Everyone wants the chance to compete at the nationals. Or should the nationals simply be the best in the country at each level?

The word is that the main body of the membership want their championships to be a two-tier event, featuring both the inspirational, the gold, to watch the best of the best, and the aspirational silver classes that are within their potential reach. Our current two-tier system isn’t working as the silver section needs redefining.

The aspirational feel is being lost for our core group of members as the winner of every section at the nationals 2017, barring two, was either a self-declared professional or a World Class talent-spotted combination.

In its definition British Dressage [BD] states: “Silver sections are designed for those combinations that have achieved more ability at a level and have demonstrated that they are no longer a beginner at that level.

“Gold sections are for riders who have gained experience at higher levels and are riding a horse with less experience, or for combinations who have demonstrated that they are competent at a level.”

The definition for gold is clear. The definition of silver is blurry at best. How much “more” experience is the question. I think it worked better before when the restricted was an exciting mix of top amateurs and up-and coming young professionals who had not yet ridden up the grades.

If the rules were effective in implementing the intention, the winners of two of the silver sections in 2017 would have been in the gold as they have both ridden at considerably higher levels. The other three winners would be in the silver. It must be expected that, in competitive sport, people will uphold the letter of the rule, although some do “self-regulate”.

If the BD membership wants to maintain a true two-tier system, then the answer is in the thankless task of redefining the rules. In trying to create opportunities the floodgates have been well and truly opened for the professionals to dominate both sections and therefore the “silver spirit” has been left feeling tarnished.

Riding skill is key to longevity

The nationals also have young horse classes. It’s fun following them to see which horses make it in the end although I’d back riders over horses any day. It’s no coincidence that the same group of riders keep producing horses to grand prix as thankfully riding skill is still what defines longevity in our sport and that, in itself, is an inspiration.

Two fingers or…

I was excited to read Pammy Hutton’s suggestion of our hardworking stewards using “BD standard” dildos instead of the “oh so unscientific” two fingers to check nosebands. It’s a truly brilliant idea and could be revolutionary for the sport. Will they be available in the online shop so people can check at home, like breathalyser tests, I wonder? This could be a new source of income for BD, putting gift aid to shame.

Perhaps the ranges could be endorsed by top riders — The Carl, The Emile, The Gareth? These trainers would then surely encourage riders to fit their nosebands ever looser so as not to lose credit, pleasing all those classical enthusiasts who could buy their own to support the cause.

Ref Horse & Hound; 28 September 2017

Here we bring your our pick of the best innovative and alternative nosebands for horses that "pull", runaway or become numb in the rein while being ridden

Horses that “pull”, run away, like to take control or cross their jaws are all common problems riders can face. There are many options to help manage these horses; one of which is trying a slightly stronger noseband. Here we bring you some of the innovative and alternative options away from the regular cavesson, flash, drop or grackle. When looking to use one of these nosebands you must consider the reasons why your horse is strong (crosses his jaw, opens his mouth, etc), its comfort when wearing one and whether it is permitted in competition.

NB: The shopping links below are provided to help you buy these items. We may earn a small commission from some of these links.

Silver Crown H noseband

The Silver Crown H noseband is designed to fasten with two straps under the horse’s jaw, and has a soft, padded nosepiece. This design allows for relaxation of the lower jaw, without restricting breathing.

RRP: £96

Visit: www.equiport.co.uk

Claridge House Anatomical crank flash noseband

A crank flash noseband which is anatomically shaped with space for your horse’s nostrils to move freely. It is also softly padded, made of premium leather and is available in pony, cob, full, extra-full sizes.

RRP: £26.90

Visit: www.kramer.co.uk

Kate Negus elastic grackle noseband

The Elastic Grackle combines the action of a grackle without the fixed nature of leather that some horses can fight against. There is also sheepskin padding where the elastic crosses to allow for extra comfort. We think this noseband would be good for horses that can cross their jaws but also fight against a traditional leather grackle.

RRP: from £57.50

Visit: www.katenegus.com

Equipe Total Control noseband

This drop noseband features a unique rigid front piece, which allows your horse to positively accept it while still giving you control. The triple adjustment mechanism helps you achieve the perfect fit and gives greater control through the reins. Available in full and cob sizes, in black, brown and red brown

RRP: £76

Visit: www.bitworld.co.uk

RNB Rope noseband

This rope noseband is useful for horses that are slightly stronger as an alternative to using a crank noseband. It is made of English leather with brass hardware and has a detachable flash.

RRP: from £35

Visit: johnwhitaker.com

Dy’on New English Collection double noseband

This innovative noseband from Dy’on combines the effects of a cavesson and a drop noseband. It controls the opening of the mouth, limits the shifting of the jaws and is designed for strong horses. The two parts can be adjusted independently allowing you to achieve an optimum fit and your own intended effect. Also, the positioning of the drop prevents pinching at the corners of the mouth.

RRP: £95

Visit: www.sederholm.co.uk

Kate Negus Combination noseband

This is a highly effective noseband for the older or wiser horse who likes to take control and can run itself into trouble. The front leather piece is reinforced with metal to prevent this part from stretching and therefore becoming too loose to have any effect.

RRP: from £180

Visit: www.katenegus.com

Was this article useful to you? We post weekly buyers’ guides on a range of equestrian products so why not bookmark us or put horseandhound.co.uk as your homepage to ensure that you don’t miss out.

Tight nosebands can cause distress to horses, a recent study has found.

A team of researchers from the University of Sydney discovered that horses showed a physiological stress response when wearing a tight crank noseband in combination with a double bridle.

The study, titled The Effect of Noseband Tightening on Horses’ Behavior, Eye Temperature, and Cardiac Responses, focused on horses’ responses to four situations.

Using a crank noseband, reactions were measured while it was unfastened; with a two-finger space (as measured by a taper gauge); with a one-finger space and with “no area” under the noseband.

None of the 12 horses used had worn a double bridle or a crank noseband before.

“If you take horses that have been habituated to this procedure, some will have been more habituated than others,” co-author Professor Paul McGreevy told H&H.

He added that by using “naïve” horses, it is possible to measure an animal’s innate reaction rather than a learned habit.

Researchers found “significant shifts” in heart rate, heart rate variability and eye temperature connected to tight noseband use.

“[This suggests] that horses experience pain or discomfort when nosebands are tightened such that there is no space available underneath them,” the study stated.

“On ethical grounds, the use of relentless pressure to eliminate oral behaviours in pursuit of a competitive advantage may be difficult to justify.”

When the nosebands were tightest, yawning, licking and chewing were “virtually absent” and the frequency of swallowing was halved, the researchers found.

Compared to a baseline test, horses also showed an increase in yawning, licking and swallowing once the noseband was removed.

“When you take the noseband off, the horses reveal what behaviours they have been missing,” Prof McGreevy added.

“Four years ago, the International Society for Equitation Science (ISES) recommended reinstatement of noseband checking at competitions and developed a simple taper gauge to standardise the gap.

“I fully agree with the riders and scholars who have contributed to this proposal.

“An Australian company produces this taper gauge and no ISES members profit from it.”

Related articles:

• Use of spurs, nosebands, bits and draw reins in competition called into question
• Crank nosebands spark welfare concerns *H&H VIP*

He also spoke of what he would like to look into in further research.

“These horses were showing stress responses just standing there,” said Prof McGreevy.

“We would like to look at other horses; we should look at horses being ridden and we would probably want to look at them for longer than ten minutes.”

The findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal Plos One on 3 May.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The use of crank nosebands has been brought into question by riders and industry officials, but the FEI has no plans to ban their use.

David Hunt, president of the British International Trainers’ Foundation, said he was “dead against” the nosebands at World Horse Welfare’s annual conference (10 November, 2015).

Crank nosebands feature a levered fastening where the leather passes back on itself through two rings, enabling the noseband to be fastened more tightly than with a plain cavesson.

“I completely disagree with them,” David told H&H following the conference.

“I don’t believe you need to crank a horse’s jaw up. If you need to, there’s something wrong with the acceptance of the contact.

“It doesn’t solve the problem, it hides it away and the horse becomes quietly resentful.”

David believes an overly tight crank noseband gives a “superficial” self-carriage.

“If you shut the horse’s mouth up it will be very light in the hand but it’s a false lightness,” he said.

“Certainly in my riding career I’ve never found it necessary.”

Dressage trainer and rider Heather Moffett echoed Paul’s concerns.

“A dressage horse needs to be able to relax its jaw,” she said.

“The reason for having the crank is so you can pull the noseband really tight — it’s inhumane.

“I think there needs to be something done to monitor the tightness of nosebands.

“I would like to see the crank noseband banned, or, more realistically, the two-finger rule observed [that two fingers can fit under the fastened noseband for optimal comfort].”

Even pressure

However, international dressage rider Rebecca Hughes spoke in favour of the crank noseband.

“I like them to create an even pressure around the noseband,” she told H&H.

“I believe some people do use them too tightly. It should be even and comfortable for the horse.

“I also think they can be too loose and people can fit their hand through. They should be snug but not extremely tight.”

An FEI spokesman said its stewards adhere to the FEI stewarding manual and code of conduct for the welfare of the horse in respect of any action or device that could cause harm or discomfort to a horse.

“The FEI rules very clearly state that a noseband should never be so tightly fitted as to harm a horse,” he said.

“Any bit or other item of saddlery likely to wound a horse is forbidden, and the FEI stewards, who have in-depth knowledge of the sport, check the saddlery of each horse to ensure that this rule is adhered to. Stewards are briefed to check nosebands as well as bits during this process.”

He added that nosebands are regularly discussed by the FEI dressage committee.

“We are currently not planning to ban specific nosebands, but we do constantly listen to our equestrian community via our national federations, our athlete representatives on our discipline committees, riders’ and trainers’ clubs and at key events such as our annual FEI Sports Forum [in April],” he said.

Ref: Horse & Hound; 21 January 2016

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A piece of tack that's most often seen on competition horses, Stephanie Bateman finds out what the lever or combination noseband is designed to do, and which horses are best suited to it

How does a lever/combination noseband work?

The lever or combination noseband has a half-moon piece of metal that goes on each side of the horse’s face. A piece of leather attaches to the top end of the metal curve (near the horse’s cheek bone), which runs under the jaw and attaches to the other side of the face. In the middle of the metal curve, a piece of leather runs over the top of the nose, acting as the main noseband, but it sits slightly lower than a standard cavesson — somewhere between a cavesson and a drop noseband. A third piece of leather runs from the bottom of the metal curve under the chin groove of the horse.

This noseband is similar in design to the grackle, and works by preventing the horse from crossing his jaw, which gives the rider more control. The slightly lower position of the noseband, when compared to a cavesson, acts in a similar way to a drop noseband, placing pressure on the nose and chin groove, but without restricting the horse’s breathing.

Continued below…

What type of horse are they suitable for?

The lever/combination noseband is ideal for sensitive-mouthed horses who are very strong, but wouldn’t go well in a stronger bit. It is also good for horses who tend to lean or pull down and forwards.

Team chaser Charlotte Alexander is an advocate of this type of noseband, and as well as using it on her ex-National Hunt racehorse and open team chaser Earthmover, she also now uses it on National Hunt legend Denman (above) when hunting and team chasing.

“I found it very effective with Earthmover, who was exceptionally strong,” explains Charlotte.

“Thoroughbreds tend to have quite soft, sensitive mouths and can be easily over-bitted. I like using grackle nosebands, but however tight it’s done up, the horse can still open their mouths and stretch the leather, making it less effective. The combination noseband can’t be stretched wider so the horse can’t cock their jaw. I find that, once they’ve realised they can’t cock their jaw, they don’t fight as much,” she says.

“The advantage of using this noseband with Denman is that it allows me to have a relatively mild bit in his mouth — a Neue Schule Turtle Top — but still have control when he gets strong and excited in company.

“I’ve been using this noseband for many years, but as with anything, not every horse will go in them – some love it and some hate it.”

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

This week's new to the market round-up features products from Back on Track, Veredus, Taz’s embroidery and Woof Wear

Back on Track Bell Boots

The new Back on Track Bell Boots are designed to support increased circulation in the hoof and at the same time provide effective protection against overreaching and injuries to the delicate pastern area. The boots are made from high-strength neoprene with leather look outers and sturdy velcro closures. The Back on Track Bell Boots are lined with Back on Track’s revolutionary Welltex™ fabric which is infused with ceramic particles. These ceramic particles cause long wave infra-red heat to radiate back towards the body. The body responds positively to the infra-red wave, increasing circulation, which can relieve joint tension, maximise performance and help avoid injury. Used for both injury prevention and during recovery the boots are ideal for problems with the tarsal bones or the coronet. Available in sizes small – large, in black, brown and white.

RRP: £40

Visit: www.backontrack.com

Veredus Boots

Veredus has extended its X Pro line so that it now covers its three key jump models, ensuring even better protection for your horse. Already available on the Carbon Gel boots, X Pro is now also available on the Pro Jump and Young Jump boot models, giving greater protection to horses’ fetlocks and pasterns. X Pro is particularly suitable for horses that tend to strike the pastern bone area of the opposite leg with a shoe. Each of the X Pro boots offers increased defence against bruising and brushing injuries, thanks to the extended shape, which is made of a special antiwear film material, reinforced with polyester. X Pro boots are available in medium and large, black or brown.

RRP: £96

Visit: www.zebraproducts.co.uk or call 01352 763350

Warning Saddle Pads

Taz’s Embroidery offers a new, unique was to give your horse a voice to warn others, offering an alternative to the coloured ribbons that many people misunderstand. These personalized saddle pads are embroidered with warning messages that can be easily seen when worn.

RRP: £24.99

Visit: www.tazsembroideryshop.co.uk

Woof Wear Pro Overreach boots

New from Woof Wear, the Pro Overreach boot brings a little sparkle to your horse’s heel protection. This stylish overreach boot is hardwearing and functional with the strength and durability expected from Woof Wear’s range. Suitable for all disciplines and available with or without the Merino sheepskin collar, the Pro Overreach will ensure you turn heads as you strut your stuff. Available in black or white, with or without a sheepskin collar in sizes small – large.

RRP: from £25

Visit: www.woofwear.com

Kate Negus Patent Padded Drop noseband

Kate Negus Saddlery is delighted to welcome the new Patent Padded Drop noseband to its collection – a product that can be bought as a piece on its own or as part of a complete bridle. The new noseband has been made to fulfill the need for a more stylish drop noseband, following the increase in popularity of this traditional style. Particularly popular with dressage riders, the Patent Padded Drop Noseband matches Kate Negus’s Patent Browband, but also looks great with SR Diamante and Diamante Browbands to complete the look. The Patent Padded Drop Noseband is made using English leather and has double buckles as standard. The quality of the leather is second to none and the patent trim across the front of the noseband really enhances the piece. This noseband attaches straight onto a Grand Prix Headpiece, and can also be used with an additional sliphead for bridles with regular headpieces. The Patent Padded Drop Noseband is available in black and chestnut, in cob and full.

RRR: £80

Visit: www.katenegus.com or call 0780 115 0571

Q: I saw racehorse Kauto Star racing at Down Royal in Ireland last month wearing a large, fleecy noseband. Is it a special design?

JD, Buckinghamshire

The former Cheltenham Gold Cup winner won the JNwine.com champion chase in Ireland wearing a Maveband — a new, contoured noseband cover.

“Trainers were asking us for bigger noseband sleeves, but with more shape,” explained Martin Ledger of manufacturers Harley Equestrian. “So we adapted our original sheepskin design and the new, ergonomically designed Maveband was created.

“It fits over a cavesson or flash noseband, and is designed to lower a high head carriage and aid concentration.

The noseband also reduces pressure over the horse’s nose, hence it aids comfort.”

Who uses the Maveband?

According to Martin Ledger, the product has already proved to be popular with trainers up and down the country, with Kauto Star’s trainer Paul Nicholls and Donald McCain Jnr just a few of the UK trainers currently using it.

We asked Donna Blake, travelling head girl to Paul Nicholls, why she uses the Maveband.

“We have been using it on a number of our horses, including Kauto Star, and have been pleased with the results,” she said.

“We were looking for a smarter and more effective version of the usual fluffy noseband cover, and the Maveband has adjustable ends that you can taper as much as you want.

“This looks a lot neater on the horse, and gives the desired effect of lowering the horse’s head carriage.”

Where can I get one?

The Maveband is made from 100% sheepskin with Velcro fastening and retails at £14.95, available solely from Harley Racing, part of Harley Equestrian.

Information

Harley Racing, tel: 01327 260818 www.harleyracing.net

This article was first published in Horse & Hound (25 December, 08)

Q: I’ve just bought a lovely gelding from a professional show jumping yard. He is five this year, has just been affiliated to the British Show Jumping Association and I hope to jump him in Discovery classes – and in time event him.

When I tried him, he was in a snaffle and crossover noseband with high rings. He didn’t seem strong and the person selling him said this was a kind noseband. Is this true and should I keep him in it??

Carolyn Henderson replies . This type of noseband has become increasingly popular over the past few years. You’ll see it in shops andcatalogues under several names, including high-ring, Mexican or American Grakle or crossover.

Like the ordinary Grakle, it is designed to prevent a horse opening his mouth too wide and crossing his jaw. With a young horse who is cutting teeth – which will include yours – it can be kinder, as the pressure points are higher and less likely to cause discomfort.

If you want to event your horse, you will have to check tack rules carefully before using this noseband for dressage.

At present it is allowed for horse trials tests run under British Eventing rules, but not for those under British Dressage rules – you would have to use a flash or drop noseband instead.

You can also minimise any problems by getting your horse’s teeth checked every six months by a vet or a qualified equine dental technician.

Tiny Clapham first saw the Mexican or high-ring Grakle noseband in America, and thought it was such an excellent idea that she had one made for her own horses when she returned to this country.

“More people are beginning to see how effective itis, particularly on big, strong pulling horses, so it’s becoming more common now,” says Tiny. “It’s basically a headpiece with rings on either side, which make a moveable joint. The centrepiece connecting the nose-straps can also be adjusted to make it even more accommodating, although mine is fixed.

The straps run about halfway between the eye and the bottom of the cheekbone, running under the bit and around the jaw in the usual fashion, but crossing high above the nose.

This is much more comfortable and less inhibiting for the horse, as a normal Grakle usually has to be horribly tight to prevent him crossing his jaw and many horses resent the restriction. Some actually lean on the traditional Grakle, making it work against you.

“The high-ring Grakle is a well-balanced noseband which doesn’t impede the airways, leaving the second nostril clear, and doesn’t interfere with the bit even though it closes the mouth. It’s such a manoeuvrable piece of equipment, which makes it fit well. Because it looks so tidy, I don’t even mind using it for dressage, as horses find it so acceptable and are really soft in the hand.

“I find it an effective noseband on many horses and often alternate it with the flash.”

Cavesson

The cavesson noseband is the simplest form of all nosebands and gives a “finished” look to a horse’s head.

It should be fitted so that it comes just below the horse’s facial bones and so that you can slip one or two fingers between the strap which goes across the nose and the horse’s face.

This and the cinchback cavesson are the only nosebands which should be used with a double bridle, to avoid conflicting actions of bits, curb chain and noseband.

Drop

This noseband often works well on horses who put their heads in the air and open their mouths to pull, as the low pressure point encourages them to drop their heads.

The front part should lie just on the nasal bones, not on the soft part of the muzzle. If it is too low, it will restrict the horse’s breathing.

If your horse is difficult to fit with a standard drop that adjusts only at the back, ask your saddler to make one which adjusts across the front.

Never attach a standing martingale to a drop or any other noseband fastening below the bit, as you’ll restrict the horse’s breathing.

Flash

The Flash has a less directaction than a drop, which may be why some horses prefer it. The front part is adjusted as a cavesson and must be substantial – thin, flimsy nosebands slip down the horse’s face.

A standing martingale can be attached to the upper part of a flash, unlike a drop noseband.

The flash can help keep the bit central in the horse’s mouth, making it popular with some dressage trainers, who use it when a horse is ridden in a loose-ring snaffle.

Grakle

Also called the crossover orfigure of eight noseband, the grakle is popular with event riders.

The noseband was originally designed for, and is named after, the hard-pulling winner of the 1938 Grand National.

The standard Grakle fits below the cheekbones and is supposed to prevent the horse crossing his jaw. If the horse tries to open his mouth he will feel pressure on the chin groove and on the bridge of the nose.

The main drawback with the standard Grakle is it tends to slip down, whereas the high ring Grakle stays in place.

Double back

Also known as the clinchback noseband, this doubles back on itself and can be fastened tighter than an ordinary cavesson without the risk of the buckle digging into the jaw.

Some show and dressage riders use this noseband with double bridles on horses who cross their jaw. Care should be taken not to over tighten it.

The double back noseband does give a little extra control, and some horses resent it less than a tight nosebands which fasten below the bit.

Kineton

Also known as the Puckle noseband, it comprises a strap across the front of the nose with a metal U-shaped loop at each end.

These metal loops slot under and inside the bit rings and strong pressure can be applied on the nose when the rider takes up the reins.

A Worcester noseband tends to be a kinder and more effective alternative.

Worcester

The Worcester noseband was developed and has been patented by Shires Equestrian.

The broad cavesson part of this noseband has two narrow straps at the centre front, which fasten to the bit rings.

It was originally designed for strong horses, as it adds nose pressure to the rein aids. It also limits the backwards movement of the bit. Some riders havefound that it also helps with steering.

Australian cheeker

A favourite with racehorse trainers, this is basically a pair of rubber bitguards joined by a central strap passing down the face and fastening to the bridle headpiece.

It’s said to have a psychological effect on pullers – the theory is that the horse can see, and backs off from, the central strap.

It also helps dissuade horses who try to put their tongue over the bit, as it prevents a jointed mouthpiece dropping too low.