Full cheek
A full cheek has 2 bars on the side and is quiet and stable in the mouth. The pressure of the bars against the cheeks facilitate maneuverability.
Depending on the type, thickness and material, a sharper or softer effect is obtained
The sidepieces of a Full Cheek have a continuous rod at the bit ring. This prevents the bit from being pulled through the horse's mouth. These Full Cheek apply more pressure on the cheeks of the horse, which facilitates turning. A Full Cheek lies stable and quietly in the horse's mouth, which is ideal for training young horses. Depending on the type, thickness, and material, a Full Cheek can have a sharper or gentler effect.
To make a Full Cheek even more effective, one can attach a Full Cheek loop to the cheekpiece on both sides of the bit. The end of the upper Full Cheek is then threaded through this loop.
By using these loops, a lever effect is created. Attaching the loop prevents the Full Cheek from getting stuck under the noseband of the bridle or tilting the bit too much.
The Full Cheek is often used in sports as a basic bit because it is suitable for many horses and riders. The sidepiece is typically used for young horses in the early stages of training who are still seeking stable contact. A Full Cheek is generally a bit accepted by both young and trained horses. Finding the right bit depends on the combination of horse and rider. At HorseOnline, you can test the bit before buying. A Full Cheek is FEI-approved and can be used for both jumping and dressage in competitions.
