A snaffle bit is an essential part of the double bridle and plays a vital role in the refined communication between rider and horse. At Ruitersport Maddelin, you'll find a carefully selected collection of snaffle bits designed to be soft, stable, and anatomically correct. Perfect for dressage riders who strive for harmony, precision, and a relaxed connection in higher classes.

What is a snaffle bit?

The under-bit is the top bit in the double-rein and double-rein combination. This bit works alongside (and not instead of) the double-rein, allowing the rider to very subtly distinguish between:

• Direct effect via the snaffle,
• Leverage and upright position via the rod.

A well-chosen snaffle provides softness, stability and relaxation , and supports the horse in carrying itself correctly.

For which horses?

A snaffle bit is ideal for horses that:

• Be trained for L/M/Z dressage and higher ,
• Be nice and light on the aids,
• Need the snaffle to lie still and stable in the mouth,
• Sensitive to wide or mobile rings,
• Or benefit from an anatomical, mouth-friendly shape.

Variants and materials

At Ruitersport Maddelin you'll find snaffle bits in various designs, so you can precisely match your horse's mouth sensitivity:

• Thin mouthpieces (12–14 mm) – especially for use in combination with the rod.
• Double jointed snaffle bits – soft, even pressure distribution.
• Single-jointed models – direct, clear communication.
• Anatomically shaped mouthpieces – follow the natural curve of the tongue.
• Sweet iron or copper alloys – stimulate salivation and relaxation.
• Stainless steel or titanium – durable, stable and tasteless.

The rings are always smaller than on a normal snaffle, so that they do not come into conflict with the shanks of the bar.

Why choose a quality underlay snaffle?

The underbit is crucial for a quiet, soft and correct contact .
A quality model ensures:

• More relaxation in jaw and neck,
• Better shoulder freedom,
• An even pressure distribution,
• And a precise separation between the two rein aids.

Our bits are designed with smooth hinges, mouth-friendly edges and precise balance , so the horse maintains confidence in the connection with the hand.

Perfect for higher dressage classes

The snaffle bit is used from the levels where double-butted and snaffle bridles are permitted. Therefore, at Maddelin, we only select models that meet the following standards:

• FN/KNHS
• FEI
• National competition guidelines

This way you always ride in a competition-proof and horse-friendly way.

Personal advice tailored to your needs

Choosing the right bit requires insight into:

• Mouth shape and tongue space,
• Sensitivity of the horse,
• Rider hand and rein preference,
• The combination with your bar.

We're happy to help you choose the ideal combination, so that the bridle and snaffle work together in harmony and your horse continues to move lightly, softly, and confidently.