bitless bridles

[Descornex]

Anyone tryone of those bitless bridles like the Dr. Cook one?
How about the Mikmar bit? All the sales talk sounds good but I'd like to hear from somone who actually tried one.
I have used a jaquima but frankly I have no idea what bosal or barbada to use to get what results. I'd like a bit more vertical flexation. I have several bosals, flat leather, rolled leather and a stiff flat one with metal or something in it. I have thin chin straps to thick ones with rough fabric covering them. I'd appreciate any advice on what to use.

[jmtw]

I ordered one today (Dr Cook's).
If I don't forget, i'll let you know how it does.

[cowboy ed]

the key to vertical flexion is lateral flexion. do a lot of work on the lateral flexion, then ask for the vertical flexion. doesnt make a lot of difference what headgear you use, just make sure you recognize when the horse gives, so that you can release the pressure instantly as a reward.

bitless bridles are fine to use, but like any other piece of tack, it doesnt replace training. ;-)

[TrueStepPaso]

Right on, Ed! Its not about what goes ON the horse, but rather what goes INTO the horse...know what I mean, jelly bean...

Anywho, I have a Dr. Cook's Bitless, and its fine. I don't use it much anymore, because if I ride bitless, I'd rather use my fleece hackamore, or a rope halter. Also, I found it annoying that the straps that cross under the throatlatch/jawbone, seemed to get stuck after you'd apply pressure and then give the release.....I'm SURE the horse felt a release, but it still bothered me that it wasn't a dramatic release that you'd get from any other headgear if you "threw" the reins away.

All in all, its a nice peice of equipment...it's just not my personal preference.

One more thing....I don't know if this makes a difference, but I bought the leather bridle, not the synthetic...

[Linda Y]

I ordered one today (Dr Cook's).
If I don't forget, i'll let you know how it does.

Joey, did you get a chance to try this yet? How did you like it?

[pnalley]

I saw the ads for the Mikmar bits. I like the looks of the mylars better, but then it's not going in my mouth