The latest bit rules for the 2023 competition season

At the very end of last year, when lots of us were coping with the start of another winter as a horse owner or racing around getting Christmas presents sorted, the latest British Dressage bit rules dropped. Of course, not all the people reading this are dressage fans or compete in affiliated or riding club activities, in which case this won’t be very relevant. But if you do intend to compete in British Dressage, British Eventing or riding club competitions this year, it’s worth taking a look at the changes to the bit rules just in case they impact you. Eventing tends to follow dressage in terms of what’s allowed for the dressage phase of competition, and riding clubs after that! So, without further ado, here are the main bit styles impacted by the British Dressage rule book changes for 2023:

Here are the main updates you need to know about:

● Cable bits, both single and double-jointed, are now not permitted in BD competitions
● They’ve also ruled against bits with a central plate
● Weymouth bits with jointed or rotating arms or mouthpieces are also now banned by BD.

If a bit is banned by British Dressage, then it’s best to assume it will be for British Eventing’s dressage phases too. We know this news is a pain for some people as it includes Bombers Bits’ DC Dressage bit, which has been a really popular choice with lots of you. If you’re not sure if your current bit or any of the designs on our website are dressage legal, then please do get in touch. Our bitting advice line is totally free and no-obligation, and our founder Jodie has her finger on the pulse of what’s allowed and is always happy to help! Here’s hoping you can find the perfect bit that your horse loves and is allowed in affiliated competitions this year… You can take a look at the full list of tack rules for BD here.

Changes to whip rules too!

One last thing to note - if you’re a keen eventer then make sure your stick complies to the new British Eventing whip rules. ALL whips used in the cross-country and show jumping phases must be air padded. Don’t let one small detail ruin a whole outing for you, and make sure all your tack and kit is compliant! And lastly – good luck for your training and the season ahead.