Horse Bit Material Buying Guide:
Types, Features, & More

The most common material for bits to be made out of is stainless steel. This material is extremely durable and will not flake or rust over time. Stainless steel can be temperature-sensitive, which should be taken into consideration in extremely hot or cold environments.

Bits that use copper encourage the horse to salivate, relax their jaw, and more easily accept the bit. Compared to traditional steel, copper bits are more heat-conductive and softer, and they wear more quickly. This is why copper bits are typically mixed with another type of metal for strength, or only used as an inlay in stainless steel bits. Copper material can range in color from orange to bright gold.

Like copper bits, sweet iron bits encourage salivation for a softer mouth during your rides. Commonly seen on Western bits, this material naturally rusts to produce a sweet taste that the horse enjoys. Over time, it can change color to become more orange. This is normal, but it can be prevented by wiping the bit down after each ride.

Blue Alloy is another type of sweet iron, which functions the same way to make the horse salivate more. The rusting process (also known as oxidation) will change the blue surface of the bit to a brownish orange/grey color. This is natural and will produce a sweet taste that encourages the horse to soften its mouth and accept the bit.

Rubber bits can be made out of different types of rubber, all with varying degrees of durability. These bits are preferred by horses with sensitive mouths that do not like the feel of metal. However, horses can chew through the rubber, which can create sharp points that rub and cause irritation in the mouth. Rubber does not conduct heat like metal does, making it more pleasant to handle in cold weather.

Plastic bits are another alternative to metal bits. The plastic is soft and flexible and is typically flavored to gain the horse's acceptance. Plastic is also another good option for sensitive-mouthed horses. Similar to rubber, plastic bits can be chewed through, and sharp points can form with use.

Leather bits are suitable for horses with especially sensitive mouths, as they are soft and malleable when immersed in saliva. These bits come in two versions: one where the bit is completely made of leather and one where leather is wrapped around a metal core. Completely leather bits have little to no core and are therefore very flexible in the horse's mouth. Leather-covered bits offer the soft feeling of leather but with a more stable core.

The idea of wrapping a bit in leather is similar to wrapping it in Sealtex, which softens the bit against the tongue, bars, and lips. Unlike rubber or plastic bits, horses can chew on leather without it becoming sharp or releasing chemicals.

Copper, sweet iron, and blue alloy bits all encourage salivation. This helps soften your horse's mouth and allows them to be more receptive to your cues while riding. For the horses that only need a little extra encouragement or are overwhelmed by bits made entirely from one of these materials, you can try a bit that has rollers or inlays instead of one material for the full mouthpiece.

Finding the right bit can be a challenge, especially for sensitive horses or those with big opinions about their bit. Luckily, there are a few different options to help you get the best one for your horse. Plastic and rubber bits are a great starting point, and many horses like the softer feel in their mouth. However, both materials can form sharp edges if your horse chews on the bit and will eventually need to be replaced.

Additionally, some horses prefer even softer bits. Leather bits can be a great option for these horses. Because leather bits can come with metal cores, they can also be good for horses who really chew on their bit but still respond well to something more solid.

Yes! Horse bits can be made from more than one material. For example, since copper is softer than traditional steel, bits featuring copper are often mixed with another type of metal to provide more strength.