Horse Bridle Terminology

One of the most basic pieces of equipment any horse person needs, the bridle comes in all shapes and sizes.

Different Cultures, Same Idea

From the minimalist Native American rope headstalls to the extensive (and expensive) contraptions used to train dressage and carriage horses.

Universal Elements

Because they are a functional piece, there are a few parts that are universal to almost any bridle you are likely to run across. Which makes it easier to learn an understanding of the basic elements.

It is important to know your terminology when it comes to essential equipment, and knowing the purpose of each part will help you to use your equipment properly.

Image from Cowgirljunk


Image from Communigate

Horse Bridle Terminology

Headpiece
Also called headstall and crownpiece is the strap that goes over the horse’s head just behind their ears at the poll. It is the main (and usually the thickest) strap of the bridle.

Cheek Pieces
Generally there are two cheekpieces, one to either side of the crownpiece, which run down the side of the horse’s face along the cheekbone and attach to the bit.

Throatlash
Also called throatlatch Usually a small strip of the crownpiece itself which runs from under the horses right ear, under their throatlatch and attaches under the left ear. The purpose of this strap is to keep the bridle on the horses head.

Browband
The browband is a thicker piece of leather which runs across the horses brow. The crownpiece also runs through the browband on both sides just under the horses ears. In some competitions decorative browbands are fashionable.

Noseband
The noseband circles the horses nose, holds the bridle in place, and is sometimes used to attach other equipment.

English bridles usually use a Cavesson which is a noseband that is attached to its own headstall and to the rest of the bridle via the browband.

Reins
The reins are the riders contact with the horse and are found on all bridles. They are attached at the bit, underneath where the bridle is attaches.

Bit
The metal part of a bridle, the bit rests on interdental spaces between a horse’s mouth called the bars and is attached to both the headstall (via cheekpieces) and the reins.

Be sure to check back for saddle terminology too.