Best English Bridles of 2023

The bridle is arguably the most important piece of tack in an English rider's tack room. Not only because it provides a direct line of communication, but the bridle connects us to the delicate areas of our horse's head and mouth. It is critical to have a bridle that suits your desired discipline, but also your horse's individual needs for support and comfort. The right bridle should improve your horse's performance and allow you to deliver the softest rein cues possible.

If you know what type of bridle you need but are having a hard time deciding which one to choose, you're in the right place! We understand that selecting the right bridle can be overwhelming with so many options and styles to choose from. In this guide, the RW Crew hand-picked some of our favorite bridles for the different English disciplines and riding styles. Whether you're shopping for your first bridle or need something new before your next debut in the show ring, Riding Warehouse has got you covered!

Our Top Bridle Picks by Type:

Ovation Carlisle Anatomic Comfort Crown Bridle

Ovation is known for their ability to offer quality products at a reasonable price; their bridles are built to last and can easily transition in and out of the show arena. Ovation bridles keep their beautiful finish and softness, even after years of riding. And the soft, supple leather is ready to use right out of the packaging!

With features like an ergonomically shaped crownpiece, wide noseband, and comfort gel padding, the Carlisle bridle combines modern functionality and a timeless design. Fancy stitching throughout the entire bridle and matching reins remain bright and beautiful without drawing too much attention. You can shine in the hunter or equitation arena in this stunning, classic option!

LeMieux Kudos Competition Bridle

The LeMieux Kudos Competition Bridle brings style and function together to make a trendy jump bridle. A traditional cavesson with a flash noseband is ideal for the jumper ring, but it can also transition to hunters just by removing the flash.

Contoured crownpieces have become a new staple in modern bridles, and this competition bridle by LeMieux is no different. The anatomical shaping allows for the horse's ears to move freely, while evenly distributing pressure across the poll. We appreciate how the incredibly soft European leather molds along your horse's face for additional comfort!

Kavalkade Charlotte Crank Dressage Bridle w/Flash

Dressage is a classical sport by nature, originating from military maneuvers. The favored style in the Dressage arena is both classic and elegant, and Kavalkade achieves this with the Charlotte Crank Dressage Bridle. Made from high-quality German leather that is soft and supple against your horse's delicate face, this bridle is designed with a contoured crownpiece cutaway at the poll to allow the ears full range of motion while eliminating poll pressure.

An anatomically-shaped, wide noseband avoids bit interference and increases comfort, while the removable flash provides bit stability as you advance through the levels. The crank-style closure enables the noseband to follow along the unique shaping of your horse's face.

Kavalkade Fleur Weymouth Crank Noseband Bridle

Kavalkade created this anatomic double bridle with a wide, padded crownpiece to comfortably and evenly distribute pressure. The extra-wide cut allows pressure to spread across a larger surface area, thus enhancing equine comfort. The cutaway, anatomically-shaped crank noseband ensures there is no interference with the bit rings.

Rolled leather throughout the design eliminates the bulk that can occur with other bridles, so there's no fear of this option taking away from your horse's beautiful face. With the finishing touches of a rhinestone browband and glossy, patent leather on the noseband, this bridle is the definition of classy!

Horseware Micklem 2 Deluxe Competition Bridle

The Micklem bridle by Horseware has been a favorite in the eventing world for a number of years. One of the first anatomically-shaped bridles on the market, the Micklem bridle's unique shaping seeks to relieve pressure from delicate facial nerves around the horse's head (and eliminate any airway restriction). Although these bridles can enhance any horse's comfort, the RW Crew has noticed that they are a great choice for horses with particularly refined heads, as they contour nicely around smaller noses.

New for 2023, Micklem has revamped its bridle line to offer even more equine comfort. An updated crownpiece creates a better fit while still avoiding sensitive nerves. Meanwhile, new cheekpieces allow the bridle to fit more comfortably around the bit. And the revised browband provides an elegant look any equestrian will appreciate!

Schockemoehle Equitus Alpha Anatomic Bridle

Schockemoehle Sports continues to make bridles that are both beautiful and long-lasting. Their high-quality leather is buttery-soft and highly padded, with a well-researched design. The anatomical shaping of this bridle works to reduce pressure on sensitive points and nerve centers throughout the horse's face and poll; this helps to increase comfort, encourage healthy blood flow, and allow for maximum air intake during your ride.

If you're looking for a bridle similar to the Alpha but with different features, consider the other Equitus models. The Beta is designed with a wider noseband that suits the Dressage arena; the Delta offers the benefits of the Alpha but without a flash; the Theta is a multi-functional bridle with the option for bitted, bitless, and combined use. For more information on the Equitus line, check out our Schockemoehle bridle buying guide!

Henri De Rivel Pro Monocrown Padded Fancy Stitch Bridle

Henri De Rivel continues to craft tack that is both functional and affordable, and the Pro Monocrown bridle is no exception. The Pro Monocrown offers a classic style without an expensive price tag, so riders don't have to break the bank in order to have a quality bridle from Henri De Rivel!

The contoured, monocrown helps relieve pressure and allows the ears to move freely. HDR uses Australian nut leather that is soft and supple, yet durable even with heavy use. While this bridle is a perfect starter, its high-quality nature makes it a versatile choice for those looking for a less expensive bridle for schooling as well!

Horseware Micklem 2 Multi Bridle USA & Reins

The Micklem 2 Multi Bridle by Horseware brings a design that is truly multi-functional. The highlight of this bridle is the ability to properly ride bitless with the easy-swap padded bitless attachment. You can provide your horse the anatomical features and benefits Micklem is known for when bitted or bitless. Additionally, this bridle can even be used as a lunging cavesson!

The anatomical shaping helps to eliminate pressure points around the poll and jaw areas; it also allows for greater air intake, which offers more comfort for your horse. This bridle is a great option for riders that are already riding bitless, or for those curious about whether riding bitless could benefit their horse!

We hope this guide has provided you with some direction in your hunt for the perfect bridle! With so many great brands and styles, we're certain you'll find something both you and your horse love. If you saw a bridle you liked that is not exactly suited to your riding needs, our wide selection of bridles, reins, parts, and accessories is sure to have what you're looking for. Check out our full selection below! Should you have any lingering questions, please reach out to our friendly customer service team at 1 (800) 620-9145 or info@ridingwarehouse.com. Happy riding!