Tongue Relief

Tongue relief bits are designed specifically for horses with sensitive tongues or those who need additional space and comfort in the mouth. These bits typically feature a port, mullen mouth, or barrel-style design, all of which must be fitted correctly to ensure they do not collapse or apply unwanted pressure over the tongue.

While many horses go well in jointed bits, horses with tongue sensitivity often prefer designs that reduce the risk of pinching or excessive tongue pressure. Tongue relief bits offer a more stable feel, making them ideal for horses that benefit from increased tongue room and, in the case of mullen mouth styles, more limited movement.

Barrel link bits such as CalmGreen, CalmBlue, and CalmRide are excellent options for horses that prefer a bit with extra flexibility and movement. However, unlike single- or double-jointed bits, these designs do not create the collapsing effect that can place pressure directly on the tongue.

Need help deciding if a tongue relief bit is right for your horse?

Frequently Asked Questions

Tongue relief bits

What kind of horses are tongue relief bits suitable for?

Tongue relief bits are great for horses that have sensitive and larger tongues and typically also lower palates. They address discomfort that lack of space and too much pressure on the tongue and palate creates.

These bits are suitable for horses at all levels of training with the fixed ring snaffles as great starter bit options and the bits with cheek pieces that create leverage great for horse's moving up the levels and requiring greater precision and control.

How does a tongue relief bit work?

Tongue relief bits relieve pressure on the tongue through the curved mouthpiece and the roller on the barrel. For horses with a larger tongue and a lower palate this provides a better distributed pressure through the mouth and eliminates the nutcracker effect of the jointed snaffles. This mouthpiece relieves pressure away from the tongue and on to the bars.

The roller provides a gliding motion when reins are engaged and the bit moves up as well as encourages mobility of the tongue. Many of our tongue relief bits include copper rollers and/or inlays, which encourage salivation and relaxation of the jaw.

Finally, each of the sides on the mouthpiece moves independently which leads to a more precise rein signal in the skilled rider's hands.

What kind of horses should avoid tongue relief bits ?

While generally these bits are a great fit for horse's of all levels of training, we recommend avoiding this bit for horses that have sensitive or injured bars.

What problems can tongue relief bits address?

Tongue discomfort can manifest in a variety of ways such flipping the tongue over the bit, headshaking and evading contact. We can give you more specific advice over e-mail if you reach out to us via our contact form.

Please note that a new bit cannot address deeper medical or training issues. You should always consult with your veterinarian and coach to eliminate other possible causes of performance issues.

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