Bridleless riding is becoming increasingly popular, believed to be more horse-friendly. Even in competitions, there are combinations that take the chance to compete in this manner. But it certainly is not always allowed. This is despite the fact bridleless riding can bring many benefits for both the horse and the rider.
Releasing the bridle on a horse can be a way to grant them more freedom. As riders, we often find ourselves impeding our horses. Allowing this freedom can provide the horse with an opportunity to move more freely and balance themselves. It can also help anxious and stressed horses relax faster, resulting in a happier horse.
Riders can also derive benefits from this approach. When riders learn how to achieve things without a direct connection to the horse's face, it opens up a whole new understanding of riding. In essence, riders should be able to guide, bend, and balance a horse without a bridle.
While it may not be straightforward for every horse to go bridleless, each horse should be capable of walking, trotting, and cantering with a loose rein, maintaining its gaits independently. For some horses, it may necessitate a different style of riding. Permanently riding bridleless may not be suitable for everyone, but it is certainly an option for some. There are horses that perform even better without a bridle, well-trained enough to safely go on trail rides or participate in competitions.
So, if a horse can be ridden perfectly without a bridle, why is it not allowed? If horses can compete without bridleless against those adorned with various barbaric tools on their faces, it might prompt the world to ask critical questions about our riding practices.
