Leather Bits

Leather mouthpieces have the characteristic of becoming softer when they get wet from the saliva in the horse's mouth. This, combined with the taste of the leather, makes the bit particularly suitable for horses with a sensitive mouth. The leather bit is capable of fully conforming to the shape of the horse's mouth. Depending on the type, thickness, and core material, a leather bit can have a sharper or gentler action. Leather bits with a metal core are standard bits covered with leather and are not flexible. Leather bits from Trust have a flexible nylon core that conforms to the horse's mouth and are therefore softer. Because the bit is made of leather, it requires better maintenance than a metal mouthpiece. The leather can dry out, which is uncomfortable for the horse. To prevent this, you should regularly grease the bit with butter.

In most cases, the leather is stitched onto the bit with thread. It is important that the stitching is always placed on the top side (toward the palate) of the horse. This prevents the stitching from chafing the horse's tongue. The bit needs several hours of riding after purchase so that it can conform to the horse's mouth. Especially during this process, it is important to keep the bit supple.

This bit is suitable for horses with normal or high salivation. If your horse has an extremely dry mouth, a leather bit may cause chafing. The taste of the leather encourages the horse to produce more saliva, but if your horse hardly produces any saliva, another bit may be a better match. This mouthpiece is particularly suitable for sensitive horse mouths. A leather mouthpiece is FEI-approved and can be used in show jumping and dressage competitions.