Bitless bridles and hackamores tend to be less common in comparison to bitted bridles. However, they are great for horses that prefer to be ridden without a bit, or horses that are hyper-sensitive to pressure in general. Bitless bridles and hackamores can also be great options for leisurely rides or for simply working on your connection with your horse! There are many styles to choose from, but here are four of my favorites!

1) Dr. Cook Bitless Bridle

A horse wearing a Dr. Cook Bitless Bridle.
A western version of the Dr. Cook Bitless Bridle. Photo by Jyo Estacio.

This is one of my favorite bridles that I originally discovered through my local lesson program. Lesson horses with inexperienced riders always seemed to appreciate the gentler contact that these bridles had to offer. The Dr. Cook Bitless Bridle offers uniform nose, poll, and cheek pressure, with no harsh pressure points. These are great for horses that are sensitive to bits! They come in leather, “beta” (rubberized), and nylon options to suit any English or western horse.

2) Little-S Hackamore

A horse wearing a Little-S Hackamore.
The Little-S Hackamore is popular amongst barrel racers.

This is my favorite hackamore for both control and precision, and it seems to be most popular in the speed event and endurance crowd. It is quite easy to bend and rate a horse with this setup. The shorter shanks apply gentler pressure in comparison to a traditional long-shanked western hackamore. The noseband is usually made of rope, and the curb strap is a flat chain. PRO-TIP: Wrap the noseband in Vetrap if your horse is on the sensitive side! This also adds a fun touch of color.

3) Bosal

A horse wearing a bosal.
This bosal is shown with a braided bosal hanger and mecate reins.

A bosal is a traditional vaquero-style bridle primarily used to teach a horse to move away from pressure. The noseband is made of a braided rawhide or leather, and is paired with a set of mecate reins. Though most disciplines do not allow a horse over 5 years old to show in a bosal, it still makes a great bridle for both leisure and training.

4) English Hackamore

A horse wearing an English hackamore.
An English hackamore with a padded leather noseband and leather curb strap.

My favorite version of this has a padded leather noseband that is usually adjustable. The metal shanks are short and flat, and they can be paired with a curb strap or chain. Though hackamores are illegal in the dressage, hunter, and equitation rings, they can be used in the jumper ring and in the jumping phases of eventing. This was my go-to bridle for trail riding and hacking, when I felt that my horse needed a break from his bitted bridle!

Though hackamores and bitless bridles are not the most common choice, they can be game changers for horses that do not work well in bits. Remember, the above options may not work for every horse! When in doubt, ask your trainer for suggestions.