Why do FEI level dressage horses compete with a double bridle?
Q:
A: Dressage riding and training has changed little over time. Since the Greek expert Xenophon laid down the principles of riding and training horses for work and war. History has dictated a long established protocol for dressage training and competition dress for the rider and tack for the horse.
The Federation Equestrian International (FEI) enforces the current rules for FEI level dressage competition. Regarding FEI Regulation #428 "World wide the dressage horses compete in standard double or Weymouth bridles with two bits the snaffle and the curb in the horse's mouth".
Wearing two bits is an antiquated FEI rule and many horses are unhappy with the extra weight and hardware in there mouth. Some horse's would much rather perform the Grand Prix in a snaffle but are unable to show their best because it is compulsory to wear a double bridle!
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