What is a bitless bridle and the Micklem Multibridle?
A bitless bridle controls a horse with pressure on the nose, jaw, and poll instead of a metal bit in the mouth. The Micklem Multibridle, often called the Micklem bridle, is a multi-purpose bridle that can work as a halter, a traditional bitted bridle, or a Micklem bitless bridle, and most horses that dislike a bit become calmer and more responsive in its bitless setup within a few rides.
A Micklem bitless bridle avoids pressure on sensitive facial nerves with a lower-set, padded design, which suits horses that toss their heads, open their mouths, or hollow their backs to avoid a traditional bit. On Day 11 of a better-rider challenge, switching the Micklem Multibridle to its bitless configuration offers a noticeable welfare and communication upgrade for many horse-and-rider pairs.
At a glance: Micklem bitless bridle key points
- Type: Micklem Multibridle used in its bitless configuration (no bit in the mouth)
- Functions: Halter, bitted bridle, bitless bridle (3 use modes in one headstall)
- Fit: Lower cheek pieces, padded crown and noseband, lower throatlatch to avoid facial nerves
- Price range: Approximately USD $150, $230 depending on model and leather quality
- Horse response: Head tossing and "giraffe neck" often stop after about 3 bitless rides
- Alternatives: Dr. Cook bitless bridle, hackamore, and sidepull designs
- Show legality: Allowed in some jumper and schooling shows; usually not legal in traditional dressage and many breed shows
Why choose the Micklem Multibridle as a bitless bridle?
The Micklem Multibridle is a popular choice for going bitless because one headstall can serve as a halter, a traditional bitted bridle, and a Micklem bitless bridle. Riders can lead, lunge, ride in a bit, or ride bitless without swapping entire bridles.
The official configurations of the Micklem Multibridle include a standard competition version, a deluxe leather version, a multi-discipline version, and a competition bridle for higher-level sport, all of which use the same ergonomic concept around the horse’s head. In practice, many riders end up using the Micklem primarily as a Micklem bitless bridle for horses that show clear dislike of a bit.
How do horses respond on their first rides bitless?
Horses that go in the Micklem Multibridle with a bit often still carry their heads as low as possible or behind the vertical to flee bit pressure, which signals underlying discomfort. The same horses usually relax the neck, take a more level outline, and stretch more freely once the Micklem bitless configuration removes the mouthpiece.
A common transition strategy introduces the Micklem Multibridle first with a bit and then removes the bit after a familiarization period, so the horse associates the new fit with known cues. In many cases, within about three bitless rides horses stop head tossing and giraffe-necking, close their mouths, and maintain a steadier contact through the nose and poll.
How does the Micklem bitless bridle fit on the horse’s head?
The Micklem Multibridle fits lower on the horse’s face than a traditional bridle, with padded crown, cheeks, and noseband that deliberately avoid key facial nerves. This anatomical design aims to distribute pressure over broader, less sensitive areas.
- The cheek pieces sit lower on the sides of the horse’s face, below the usual location of traditional cheek straps.
- The lower cheek placement and shaped noseband keep the headpiece from pressing directly on the main facial nerves and the sensitive infraorbital foramen region.
- The crownpiece, noseband, and cheek straps include generous padding to cushion contact points and reduce rubbing.
- The throatlatch lies lower than a typical bridle, which keeps the upper jaw and parotid area less restricted.
- All buckles use rollers, so riders can adjust the Micklem Multibridle smoothly and accurately to fine-tune fit.
This lower, padded, ergonomic fit helps sensitive horses stay more willing to go forward and accept contact without bracing against traditional pressure points.
How do you set up the Micklem bridle to go bitless?
The Micklem Multibridle converts to a Micklem bitless bridle by using the supplied lower noseband attachment and relocating the reins. Follow these steps to set up the Micklem bitless configuration:
- Attach the dedicated leather bitless attachment to the lower portion of the Micklem noseband, using the correct D-rings or slots provided.
- Fasten the attachment securely and check that it lies flat and even on both sides of the horse’s nose.
- Clip or buckle the reins directly to the rings on the bitless attachment so rein pressure acts on the nose and jaw instead of a bit. Riders familiar with using mecate reins with slobber straps often find this rein change straightforward.
- To return the Micklem Multibridle to a traditional bitted bridle, first detach the reins from the bitless attachment.
- Remove the bitless attachment from the lower noseband and then attach the bit to the bit hangers; finally, clip or buckle the reins to the bit rings.
The bitless attachment offers a straightforward way to switch between bit and bitless, although riders who change frequently between horses sometimes keep a second set of reins or a dedicated Micklem bitless setup to avoid repeated swapping.
How does the Micklem bitless bridle compare to a traditional bitted bridle?
The Micklem bitless bridle changes the primary pressure from the horse’s mouth to the nose and poll, which often reduces conflict behaviors like head tossing and mouth gaping compared to a traditional bitted bridle. Riders also gain a more versatile piece of tack that can adapt to multiple horses and disciplines.
| Feature | Micklem bitless bridle | Traditional bitted bridle |
|---|---|---|
| Mouthpiece | No bit; rein pressure acts on nose, jaw, and poll | Metal bit in the mouth applies pressure to tongue, bars, and lips |
| Noseband / crown padding | Heavily padded crown and noseband designed to avoid key facial nerves | Padding and shape vary; many basic bridles have thinner or minimal padding |
| Cheek-piece position | Cheek pieces and lower straps sit lower on the face to reduce nerve pressure | Cheek pieces sit higher, closer to facial nerves and the cheekbone |
| Head tossing / giraffe neck | Head tossing and giraffe-necking often stop after about 3 consistent bitless rides | Horses prone to bit discomfort may continue to toss heads, open mouths, or go behind the bit |
| Show-ring legality | Accepted at some jumper and schooling shows; often not legal in traditional dressage and many breed shows | Widely legal across most mainstream disciplines when correct bit rules are followed |
| Typical price | Approximately USD $150, $230 for the Micklem Multibridle depending on model | Basic bridles can start around USD $60, $100; high-end bridles run USD $200+ without bitless function |
Compared with other bitless options such as the Dr. Cook bitless bridle, mechanical hackamores, or simple sidepulls, the Micklem bitless bridle provides a closer feel to traditional contact while still removing the metal mouthpiece.
How do horses respond to going bitless in the Micklem?
Most horses that dislike a bit become more relaxed, steadier in the contact, and easier to ride when the Micklem Multibridle is used bitless. This change reflects both reduced oral discomfort and more consistent pressure distribution around the head.
Horses that previously opened their mouths, crossed their jaws, or traveled with a stiff, inverted neck often begin to stretch forward and down within the first few sessions in the Micklem bitless configuration. After several rides, riders report less bracing, smoother transitions, and fewer resistance behaviors such as spooking forward from bit pressure or refusing to go into corners.
Because the Micklem bitless bridle focuses on nose and poll pressure, many horses also find it easier to chew, salivate, and breathe freely compared with going in a tight cavesson and bit. The more relaxed way of going then shows clearly on video, where riders can watch changes in stride length, relaxation of the topline, and rhythm. This was the kind of change evaluated during day 11 of the better-rider challenge while recording with auto-tracking Pivo pods for riders.
Is the Micklem bitless bridle worth it?
Yes, the Micklem bitless bridle is worth the price for most horses that dislike a bit, especially when a rider wants one bridle that can switch between bitted, bitless, and halter use. The ergonomic design, versatility, and improved comfort make the Micklem Multibridle a strong value even compared with owning several separate bridles.
Since switching to the Micklem bitless configuration, riders frequently notice no more head tossing, no more wide-open mouths, and no more giraffe necking from horses trying to escape the bit. Over time, these horses usually develop more consistent rhythm and better self-carriage because they no longer spend energy resisting oral discomfort.
The Micklem Multibridle typically costs more than a basic traditional bridle, but the ability to replace multiple bitted and bitless bridles with one adjustable system offsets that higher upfront price. Many riders who invest in a Micklem bitless bridle end up wishing they had tried it earlier once they see the change in their horses’ comfort and attitude. If you have ever thought about trying a Micklem bitless bridle, the Micklem Multibridle fits well into fun challenge ideas for horses and riders that focus on comfort and communication.
How does going bitless support a better-rider challenge?
Going bitless in the Micklem Multibridle on a designated training day creates a clear, focused experiment in improving horse comfort and communication. This structured change encourages riders to adjust their hands, refine their aids, and pay close attention to feedback from the horse. For day 11 of a being a better rider challenge, it helps to review earlier experiences such as getting bucked off a horse in day 9 and using that insight to ride more thoughtfully.
Working through a better-rider challenge with the Micklem bitless bridle also benefits from video review using an auto tracking camera, because riders can objectively see improvements in relaxation, straightness, and responsiveness. After several weeks of riding bitless, many riders find they do not want to return to a bit for everyday schooling because the horses go better, and the rider’s own feel and balance improve without relying on mouth pressure.
What about showing rules and putting the horse first?
Most current show-rule frameworks still favor traditional bitted bridles, so riders who adopt the Micklem bitless bridle need to check each organization’s rulebook carefully. Dressage bodies and many breed shows typically require a bit at most levels, while some schooling and jumper shows offer more flexibility and accept bitless setups.
When rulebooks conflict with a horse’s clear preference for bitless, many riders simply choose not to enter those shows, particularly when showing away from home would require compromising on welfare. For riders who prioritize the horse’s comfort over ribbons, the Micklem bitless bridle often becomes the default for schooling and conditioning, with a gentle bitted bridle reserved only where specific disciplines still require it.
For anyone considering a Micklem bitless bridle, the Micklem Multibridle represents a practical way to center welfare, experiment with bitless communication, and potentially transform daily rides into calmer, more harmonious sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Micklem bitless bridle allowed in shows?
The Micklem bitless bridle is allowed in some jumper, eventing schooling, and local shows, but it is usually not legal in traditional dressage and many breed or rated competitions. Riders should always check the specific rulebook for each discipline and show level before entering with a bitless setup.
How much does a Micklem bitless bridle cost?
The Micklem Multibridle typically costs about USD $150, $230 depending on the specific model and leather quality. Prices vary by region and retailer, but the Micklem usually sits in the mid-range compared with other quality bridles.
Can the Micklem Multibridle be used with a bit?
Yes, the Micklem Multibridle can be used as a traditional bitted bridle by attaching a bit to the bit hangers and clipping the reins to the bit rings. Riders can then remove the bit and reattach the bitless converter when they want to return to bitless riding.
Will a horse adapt to going bitless in the Micklem?
Most horses adapt to going bitless in the Micklem within a handful of rides, often showing less tension and fewer resistance behaviors. Sensitive horses that dislike oral pressure typically relax faster, stretch more, and become easier to ride consistently once the bit is removed.
Is a bitless bridle as safe and controllable as a bit?
A bitless bridle like the Micklem can be just as safe and controllable as a bit when the rider uses clear aids and the horse understands basic cues. Control in any bridle ultimately comes from training, balance, and communication rather than from the presence or absence of a metal mouthpiece.
