LeMieux Kudos Grackle Bridle

With a grackle noseband, the placement of the crossing point matters. That crossing point belongs in the middle of the nasal bone, not skewed and not too low. The upper straps run higher than on a regular noseband, while the lower straps pass underneath the bit. Take your time the first time and check the symmetry on both sides.

The bridle comes in Pony, Cob and Full. Measure your current bridle for comparison: the cheekpiece length and the circumference at nose level tell you more than the size name, because that varies from brand to brand.

Caring for a crossed model takes a little more work, since there are more straps and more seams. Wipe the leather after every use with a lightly damp cloth, pay particular attention to the crossing point where sweat and sand collect, and treat the whole bridle regularly with leather soap and afterwards with a thin layer of leather balm. Always let leather dry at room temperature, never near a heat source.

This bridle suits riders looking for a stable, clear connection, and horses that stay less settled with a wide noseband. Because the pressure is spread across several points, it is a model often chosen for work at a brisker pace, but it is just as usable in daily training.

If you prefer a classic line with a wide noseband, a bridle with a plain or combined noseband from our range is the better choice. If you work in a discipline where the crossed design is less common, check your federation's rules before you enter a competition. Bear in mind too that reins are not supplied with this bridle.

The crossing point belongs in the middle of the nasal bone, not crooked and not too low. Take your time the first time and check the symmetry on both sides. Reins are not supplied.

A crossed model has more straps and seams. Wipe the leather after every use with a slightly damp cloth, paying extra attention to the crossing point where sweat and sand collect. Treat it regularly with leather soap followed by a thin layer of leather balm, and always let it dry at room temperature, never near a heat source.

Are the reins included?
No, this bridle is delivered without reins. You choose the reins separately.

Which size do I need?
There is a choice of Pony, Cob and Full. Compare the cheekpiece length and the noseband circumference with your current bridle; the shape of the head matters more than the horse's height.

Does this bridle come in other sizes?
The sizes we stock as standard are listed under the technical specifications. We can order other sizes on request.

What type of noseband does this bridle have?
A grackle noseband. The two straps cross over the nasal bone.

What is the difference with a regular noseband?
A regular noseband runs around the nose as a single band. On a grackle noseband two straps cross, which spreads the tension across several points and makes the bridle sit more stably.

Can I compete with a grackle noseband?
Rules on nosebands differ per discipline and per federation, and they change. Check the rules of your own discipline and federation before you enter.

How do I adjust the noseband?
Make sure the crossing point sits in the middle of the nasal bone and that both sides are adjusted symmetrically. The lower straps run underneath the bit.

How do I care for the leather?
Wipe it after use with a lightly damp cloth, paying extra attention to the crossing point, and treat the leather regularly with leather soap and leather balm.

• Snaffle bridle by LeMieux with a grackle noseband
• Crossed straps spread the tension across several points
• Anatomically shaped headpiece for a quieter fit behind the ears
• Made from supple, high-grade cowhide
• Available in Havana, Chestnut/Silver and Black
• Offered in Pony, Cob and Full
• Reins are not included
• Suitable for daily training and work at a brisker pace