Fairfax Performance Bridle

When looking for top level performance it is vital we review all aspects of equipment we use. We have two trained bridle fitters here at the store and we have caught up with Jacqui who has been fitting these bridles since their first release on to the market in 2015.

Key Features

So let’s take a look at the science behind this bridle, this is the first bridle to be based on scientific research and proven to:

• Reduce pressure by up to 84%
• Reduce force by up to 77%
• Allows greater forelimb extension
• Increases knee & hock flexion

Using pressure mapping and gait analysis, the bridle has been designed and developed. The below is taken from Fairfax Bridles website and explains the how and why in it’s development.

‘Our testing and research into different bridle designs identified six key areas of peak pressure, common to most bridles. Further scientific study proves that the reduction in bridle pressure afforded by the Fairfax Performance Bridle significantly improves range of movement, extension and flexion in competition horses. In addition to reducing pressure, the Fairfax Performance Bridle enhances the horse’s comfort by improving stability. Read more about how the bridle was tested and developed here.  All parts of the Fairfax Performance Bridle are legal for FEI competition.’

Why should I try this bridle?

Having worked at the store for over 20 years I have seen bridles develop and improve every year. When this bridle came to the market my first thought was how nice the bridle looked, the quality of the leather and some of the parts were of an interesting design… But is it going to provide our customers with value for money? The training day was a complete eye opener, we trialled the bridle on a range of horses from novice to grand prix dressage horses. The overall verdict was all horses felt more forward and ‘in to’ the bridle in a positive way. The more advanced riders felt the contact enabled them to ride the horses more forward and create more lift. Impressive!

I took all my years of knowledge of bridle fitting and horse ownership along with these new bridles and started trying them on customers horses. Whilst this bridle will never suit every rider and every horse, if you are looking to buy a new bridle where comfort and design is a priority for you then I would say take a look at this bridle range.

Summary of what makes this bridle different..

The bridle has a nice wide padded headpiece which distributes the downward pressure from the bit evenly across the horses poll – great for horses who are sensitive in this area. The headpiece has two pads which hold the bridle away from the side of the face under the browband area removing pressure at the side of the poll = a happier horse. The headpiece is fixed without a noseband sliding over the poll area helping the horse stay balanced. The noseband is lined with prolite and also lifted away from the nasal bone and relieving pressure. The noseband has rings at the side allowing it to sit level and mould around the shape of the horses jawline.