In the past few years, more and more riders are making the switch to bitless bridles—and for good reason. Whether you're an experienced equestrian or just starting your journey, the appeal of a gentler, more anatomically friendly option is hard to ignore. There are the various bitless designs available but the sidepull bridle stands out as a firm favourite for clear communication, comfort, and connection.
What Is a Sidepull Bridle?
A bitless sidepull bridle applies gentle pressure to the horse’s nose and sides of the face, allowing you to give direction without a bit in the mouth. It works similar to a halter but with more refined control. It is ideal for starting young horses by using the rings on the bridle for long reining and introducing them to the idea of wearing a bridle.
Unlike hackamores or cross-under styles, the sidepull offers direct lateral action, making it easy to understand for both horse and rider. This simplicity is part of what makes it such an appealing option—especially for those looking to create a softer riding experience.
Anatomical Design: Built for Comfort
We spent a great deal of time researching and designing our bitless bridles and one of the major advancements in recent bridle design is the move towards anatomically shaped headpieces. Traditional bridles often put pressure on sensitive nerve points at the poll, ears, and jaw. Our anatomical headpieces are shaped to reduce pressure and enhance comfort, especially for sensitive or reactive horses.
Materials That Matter: Bio-Synthetic and Leather Options
Not all bridles are created equal. That’s why we offer both bio-synthetic and leather-padded versions of our sidepull bridles to suit different needs and preferences.
-
Bio-synthetic bridles are lightweight, easy to clean, and exceptionally durable—perfect for everyday riding or wet weather.
-
Leather-padded bridles bring a touch of classic elegance and luxury, with soft, cushioned nosebands and browbands to keep your horse comfortable on longer rides.
Both styles are crafted to high standards with comfort and functionality at the core.
Why Go Bitless?
Switching to a bitless bridle doesn’t mean giving up control. In fact, many riders report improved responsiveness, relaxation, and trust from their horses after going bitless. For horses with dental issues, past trauma, or simply a preference for a gentler feel, a sidepull bridle can make a world of difference.
Riders also appreciate the clearer communication and closer bond they develop with their horses when using a bitless system. It’s not just about removing the bit—it’s about riding with feel, fairness, freedom and understanding.
Ready to Make the Switch?
Whether you're looking for a soft-start option for a young horse, a more comfortable ride for an older companion, or simply exploring kinder methods of communication, a bitless sidepull bridle could be exactly what you need. Explore our range of anatomical, bio-synthetic, and leather-padded options in our online shop, and find the perfect fit for you and your horse.