Straight resin bits

Straight synthetic bits: a solid mouthpiece with a softer contact surface

Straight synthetic bits combine a solid, unjointed mouthpiece with a synthetic material that provides a softer contact surface than stainless steel. This combination directly influences how the horse perceives the bit while retaining the characteristics of a straight mouthpiece.

Understanding how a straight synthetic mouthpiece works

Unlike a jointed mouthpiece, which divides pressure when rein aids are applied, a straight mouthpiece has no joints. Pressure is transmitted continuously across the areas determined by its shape: the tongue, the bars and the corners of the mouth. This lack of articulation provides greater stability within the horse's mouth but does not allow for completely independent lateral aids. When pressure is applied to one rein, it is transmitted more evenly across the entire mouthpiece, influencing how the horse responds to the rider's aids.

Depending on its design, whether a classic straight bar or a tongue relief mouthpiece, pressure distribution can vary significantly. As a result, not all straight synthetic bits offer the same action.

Synthetic material provide a contact surface that is generally softer and less conductive to cold than metal. For some horses, this encourages a more confident acceptance of the bit and improved contact, particularly during the early stages of bitting.

The anatomical areas affected

Depending on its profile, the mouthpiece places varying levels of pressure on different anatomical structures:

• The tongue: a conventional straight mouthpiece generally applies even pressure across the tongue. Tongue relief designs reduce pressure through the central section.
• The bars: the amount of pressure depends primarily on the shape and thickness of the mouthpiece. A thinner or narrower mouthpiece concentrates pressure more than a wider design.
• The corners of the mouth: these remain involved in the contact regardless of the mouthpiece shape, although the amount of pressure also depends on the cheekpiece design and the adjustment of the bit.

Different actions with a straight synthetic bit

The action of a straight synthetic bit depends on two main factors: the design of the mouthpiece (its shape and thickness) and the type of cheekpiece. Choosing a mouthpiece that suits your horse's oral anatomy and sensitivity is essential. The cheekpiece should then be selected according to the horse's balance, steering requirements and the level of precision you are looking for. Depending on the manufacturer and the model, different levels of flexibility are available, including soft, firm and extra-soft versions.

Choosing the right level of flexibility for your straight synthetic bit

When selecting a straight synthetic bit, the flexibility of the mouthpiece mainly influences how the horse receives and interprets pressure. A softer synthetic mouthpiece may suit sensitive horses that prefer a more cushioned feel, while a firmer version generally provides a more stable and consistent contact. The more flexible the synthetic mouthpiece, the less likely the horse is to take a strong, fixed contact against it. The ideal choice is the one that allows the horse to maintain a steady contact while remaining relaxed and comfortable.