Ask H&H: Nathe Butterfly Flip bit
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Q: I saw Irish show jumper Anthony Condon using an unusual-looking bit on Wertherroschen during the puissance at Horse of the Year Show in October and wondered what the bit is and what it is used for?
SH, West Midlands
Anthony Condon is riding Wertherroschen in a Butterfly Flip Bit with Nathe mouthpiece. He recently won the grand prix class at the Aintree International Equestrian Centre using this bit.
How does it work?
The Butterfly features bit rings in a “D” shape for multiple rein positions and is favoured by many show jumpers as it gives varying degrees of control, depending on the positioning.
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The Nathe mouthpiece is made from an allergy-free soft plastic, which covers a flexible steel wire. It encourages salivation, and is reportedly very comfortable — ideal for horses with
sensitive mouths.
Why does Anthony use it?
“I like the Nathe Butterfly as it has a little bit of leverage, but is also soft in the horse’s mouth,” Anthony explained.
“Wertherroschen isn’t a particularly sensitive mare, but she does lean on the bit sometimes — the Butterfly gets her back up into my hands.
“I don’t use it especially for puissance classes — I use it all the time with her.”
Where can I get one?
Equiport stocks the Butterfly Flip Bit with Straight Bar Nathe mouthpiece for £110.
Information
Equiport, tel: 01606 351685 www.equiport.co.uk
This article was first published in Horse & Hound (10 December, ’09)
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