Neue Schule Starter Loose Ringe - Double Jointed
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The Classic Snaffle for Every Horse and Discipline | Emmers Equestrian
A loose ring snaffle is the classic, most widely used bit style: the rings pass freely through holes at each end of the mouthpiece, so the bit can slide and rotate rather than sitting fixed in place. Known as a Wassertrense in German and Watertrens in Dutch, it's often the first real bit a young horse wears and remains a genuine all-rounder through every level of training.
Brands riders trust
With more than 130 loose ring bits, this is one of the largest collections in our range. You’ll find bits from leading specialists such as TRUST, Sprenger, Metalab, Velari, Poponcini, AJR Sport, Beris, and Happy Mouth.
Find the right mouthpiece.
- Single jointed: a classic, simple action with one joint in the middle.
- Double jointed: a central link or lozenge that follows the shape of the mouth and spreads pressure more evenly. The most popular choice in our range.
- Mullen mouth: an unjointed, slightly curved mouthpiece that gives a steady contact without a nutcracker action.
- Port: a raised centre that gives extra room for the tongue.
- Waterford: linked balls that make the bit flexible and difficult to lean on.
- Locked and twisted mouthpieces: for specific training situations, with a more defined action.
Materials for every mouth
Choose from stainless steel, sweet iron, and copper alloys that encourage salivation, Sprenger’s Sensogan alloy, and soft synthetic mouthpieces from Beris and Happy Mouth for horses that are sensitive to metal. Our loose ring bits are available from 9.5 to 15.5 cm, so there’s a size for ponies, horses, and larger breeds.
Prefer a bit that stays more still in the mouth? Compare our eggbutt, full cheek, and Baucher snaffles, and protect your horse’s lips with a bit guard from our bit accessories.
You’re also welcome to visit one of our stores for personal advice.
Frequently asked questions
What is a loose ring bit?
A loose ring bit is a snaffle with rings that slide freely through holes at the ends of the mouthpiece. Because the rings can move, the bit is more mobile in the mouth than a fixed-cheek snaffle, which encourages your horse to chew and stay relaxed in the contact.
What is the difference between a loose ring and an eggbutt?
On a loose ring, the rings move freely, so the bit is mobile in the mouth. On an eggbutt, the rings are fixed to the mouthpiece with a barrel-shaped joint, which keeps the bit more still and prevents pinching at the corners of the mouth. Horses that like to play with the bit often prefer a loose ring, while horses that prefer a quiet, steady bit often go better in an eggbutt.
Is a loose ring bit mild?
A loose ring snaffle has no leverage, so it’s considered one of the mildest types of bit. How mild it feels also depends on the mouthpiece: a double jointed or mullen mouth is generally softer than a single jointed or twisted mouthpiece.
Can a loose ring bit pinch my horse’s lips?
It can if the holes in the mouthpiece wear over time or the bit is too narrow. Check your bit regularly for wear, make sure it’s the right size, and use rubber bit guards if your horse has sensitive lips.
Is a loose ring bit allowed in dressage competitions?
Yes, the loose ring snaffle is one of the most common bits in dressage and is permitted at most levels. Rules on mouthpieces, thicknesses and materials vary between federations, so always check the list of permitted bits before you compete.
Single-jointed or double-jointed: which should I choose?
A single jointed bit folds in the middle and can press on the tongue and palate when you take a contact. A double jointed bit has a central link that follows the shape of the mouth and spreads pressure more evenly over the tongue. Many horses find a double-jointed bit more comfortable, especially horses with a low palate.
What size loose ring bit do I need?
Measure the width of your horse’s mouth with a bit measure or a piece of string. A loose ring should stick out about 0.5 to 1 cm on each side, a little more than a fixed-cheek bit, so the rings can move freely without pinching the lips.
What mouthpiece thickness is best?
A thicker bit spreads pressure over a larger area, but not every horse has room for one. Horses with a low palate or a fleshy tongue are often more comfortable in a thinner bit. Your vet, equine dentist or a bit specialist can help you check what suits your horse’s mouth.
You'll find loose ring snaffles across materials and mouthpieces at Emmers Equestrian.