6 Best Bit Covers For Pasture Turnout To Prevent Wear
Protect your horse’s mouth and equipment with the 6 best bit covers for pasture turnout. Discover our top picks to prevent wear and shop your perfect fit today.
Turning out horses for a few hours of grazing is the highlight of the day, but a bit rubbing against the corners of the mouth can turn a peaceful pasture session into a source of irritation. Left unprotected, sensitive skin quickly develops sores that complicate future tacking-up and create unnecessary stress for the animal. Utilizing high-quality bit guards is a simple, cost-effective intervention that prevents these minor injuries before they ever start.
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Shires Rubber Bit Guards: The All-Around Winner
The Shires Rubber Bit Guards set the industry standard for durability and straightforward functionality. These circular discs are crafted from a resilient, flexible rubber that stands up to the daily rigors of field life without cracking or losing shape.
Because they are molded from a medium-density compound, they provide an ideal balance between flexibility and stiffness. They possess enough give to remain comfortable against the cheek, yet they hold their position firmly to keep the metal bit away from sensitive skin.
For the hobby farmer looking for a reliable, “set it and forget it” solution, these are the clear choice. They work effectively with almost any bit style and require minimal maintenance, making them an essential staple for any tack room.
Gel-Eze Bit Guards: Best for Sensitive Horses
When dealing with a horse that has thin, easily irritated skin, standard rubber guards may sometimes be too abrasive. Gel-Eze Bit Guards utilize a specialized, tacky gel material that contours perfectly to the face, minimizing friction points and maximizing comfort.
This material is exceptionally soft, providing a cushioned barrier that absorbs minor impacts against the corners of the mouth. It is particularly effective for horses that tend to fidget or “play” with the bit, as the gel dampens the vibration that usually causes rubbing.
These guards are recommended specifically for horses prone to mouth sores or those with very fine hair coats. While they require a bit more care to keep clean, the added level of comfort provided to sensitive animals makes them a superior investment.
Korsteel Rubber Bit Rings: Top Budget-Friendly Pick
Not every accessory needs to be a premium product to perform its job well. Korsteel Rubber Bit Rings are designed with simplicity in mind, offering a cost-effective way to protect the corners of the mouth without breaking the budget.
These guards are thinner and more pliable than heavy-duty options, which makes them easy to slide onto most bits. While they may not have the longevity of thicker rubber variants, they serve their primary purpose of maintaining distance between the bit and the skin with total efficiency.
These are an ideal pick for owners who have multiple horses and need a stash of spare guards for different headstalls. For basic turnout protection, they represent the best value-per-dollar in the current market.
Cashel Foam Bit Guards: Easiest to Apply Option
Installing bit guards can sometimes be a battle of leverage and grip strength. Cashel Foam Bit Guards address this frustration by utilizing a soft, pliable foam material that stretches easily over the bit shanks.
The lightweight nature of the foam means it does not add significant bulk or weight to the bridle, which helps horses that are sensitive to heavy equipment. The material is surprisingly resilient and maintains its shape well, even after repeated installations and removals.
If struggle-free application is the priority, these foam guards are the standout performer. They are highly recommended for those who frequently switch bits or for individuals who find stiffer rubber models difficult to manipulate.
Acavallo Gel Bit Guards: Most Durable Design
Acavallo has built a reputation for integrating medical-grade materials into horse tack, and their Gel Bit Guards are no exception. These guards are built to withstand heavy use while maintaining their structural integrity over long periods.
The dense, high-quality gel does not stretch out or degrade when exposed to sweat or varying temperatures. This durability ensures that the bit remains perfectly positioned throughout the entire turnout period, regardless of how much the horse moves or grazes.
For the farmer who prefers to buy once and replace rarely, Acavallo is the definitive answer. They provide a level of long-term consistency that cheaper, disposable alternatives simply cannot match.
Happy Mouth Bit Guards: For Picky, Busy Mouths
Horses that are constantly busy with their mouths often struggle with traditional metal bits. Happy Mouth Bit Guards are designed to complement bits that feature polymer coatings, providing a soft, non-metallic feel throughout the entire contact area.
These guards are specifically shaped to reduce the amount of surface area touching the horse’s cheek, which discourages the horse from grabbing or pulling on the bit. They are an excellent training aid for young or green horses that need to learn to accept the bit without the irritation of metal against their skin.
If a horse is particularly fussy or shows signs of tension, these guards are the correct choice. They prioritize a gentle interaction, helping to settle the horse and promote a more relaxed, responsive mouth.
Choosing the Right Bit Cover Size for Your Bit
Sizing is the most common point of failure when using bit guards. If the center hole is too large, the guard slides over the bit and loses its protective function; if it is too small, it can cause the bit to bind or become fixed in an uncomfortable position.
- Measure the bit shank: Always choose a hole diameter that is slightly smaller than the bit’s thickness to ensure a snug fit.
- Check compatibility: Confirm whether the guard is intended for full-cheek bits, eggbutts, or loose rings, as the geometry of these bits varies significantly.
- Test for movement: Once installed, the guard should stay in place but still allow the bit to rotate or slide according to its design.
Most manufacturers provide sizing charts based on the type of bit. When in doubt, lean toward a tighter fit, as rubber and gel materials will naturally stretch over time.
How to Correctly Install Bit Guards for Safety
Proper installation is critical to ensure the horse remains comfortable and the equipment performs as expected. Avoid using sharp tools, such as screwdrivers or knives, to stretch the guards onto the bit, as this can easily nick the rubber or the bit’s finish.
Start by warming the rubber or gel guards in a cup of hotnot boilingwater for a few minutes. This softens the material, making it much easier to slide over the bit shank without damaging the structural integrity of the guard.
Ensure that the flatter side of the guard is facing the horses face to maximize surface contact and prevent pinching. A properly installed guard should look clean, sit flush against the bit, and have no visible folds or gaps that could trap hair or skin.
Signs of Rubbing Even With Bit Guards in Use
Even with the best protection, it is vital to inspect the horses mouth daily. A guard that has slipped out of place can actually create a new pressure point, resulting in a pinch rather than a protective shield.
- Redness or hair loss: Check the corners of the mouth for any signs of thinning hair or localized inflammation.
- Behavioral changes: If the horse is suddenly resistant to the bridle or tosses its head, evaluate the fit of the equipment immediately.
- Scabs or crusting: This is a clear indicator that the current bit or guard setup is insufficient for the horse’s anatomy.
If these signs appear, remove the guards and reassess the situation. Sometimes, the issue is not the guard, but a bit that is simply too narrow for the horse’s mouth, requiring a move to a wider size.
Cleaning and Care Tips for Your Bit Covers
Pasture turnout is a messy business, and bits inevitably collect dirt, saliva, and grass debris. If left uncleaned, this buildup acts like sandpaper against the corners of the mouth, causing exactly the type of irritation the guards are meant to prevent.
Rinse the bit and the guards thoroughly with fresh water after every ride or turnout session. Once a week, use a mild, ph-balanced soap to deep clean the guards, ensuring that no dried, crusty material remains trapped in the creases.
Allow the equipment to air dry completely before storing it in a tack box. Proper cleaning not only protects the horse’s skin but also extends the life of the guards, preventing the materials from becoming brittle or harboring bacteria.
The right bit guard is a small but vital component of a successful turnout strategy, bridging the gap between comfort and performance. By selecting the appropriate material and ensuring a precise fit, the risk of mouth irritation is effectively neutralized. Invest in quality, maintain the gear with care, and keep those pasture sessions stress-free for the horses.
