How to Measure for your new bridle

One of the questions we're asked more than any other is:

"How do I measure my horse for a new bridle?"

The most accurate way to measure for your new bridle is by measuring off an old bridle, even if that old bridle doesn't fit the best.

The good news is that you don't need any special equipment—just a soft tape measure and a few minutes.

Browband

From an existing browband, lay it flat and measure straight from one end to the other. Don't follow any curve or shape the browband may have.

Without an existing browband, measure from just behind one ear, across the forehead, to just behind the other ear. A browband that's too short can pull the headpiece forward and create unnecessary pressure.

Headpiece & Cheekpieces (Bit to Bit Measurement)
From an existing bridle, measure from one end of the cheekpiece where it attaches to the bit, over the top of the poll, and down to the same spot on the other side.

Without an existing bridle, do the same measurement from the corner of the mouth, and then subtract the approximate length of the bit rings you plan to use, plus a bit extra to allow for the stretch of the lips. A rough guide is about 3 inches on each side.

This bit to bit measurement will give you the combination of crownpiece and cheekpiece sizes that will sit the buckles of the cheekpieces correctly at eye level. For example, a measurement of 39" would give you a horse size crownpiece and cob size cheekpieces, or a cob size crown and horse cheeks. Where you have two possible combinations like this, match you cheekpiece size with your noseband size. 

These should allow the bit to sit comfortably in the corners of the mouth without being too high or too low. Every horse's head length is different, so adjustability is key.

Noseband

From an existing bridle, either measure the circumference on the hole your horse usually wears it, or lay your noseband flat and compare to the measurements of our nosebands. It should fit comfortably without restricting your horse's movement or breathing.

Without an existing noseband, measure around your horse's nose where the noseband will naturally sit. Compare this with the 'inside' measurement of our nosebands. 

Remember, no two horses have exactly the same head shape. A horse may need a cob browband, full-size cheekpieces and a different size noseband altogether.

That's one of the reasons we've always believed that one-size-fits-all rarely works. The best fit often comes from choosing components that suit your individual horse rather than relying on standard combinations.

If you'd like a little extra help, we're always happy to assist.

Simply email us with:

  • Your horse's breed
  • Age
  • A front-on photo
  • A side-on photo
  • Any measurements you have already taken

We'll happily point you in the right direction.

Or, if you're ready to explore your options, take a look at our range of adjustable and customisable bridles.

For more information on measuring your bridle, more extensive measuring tables, and specialty noseband measurements (such as our drop noseband or duo noseband), see our How to Measure pages.