What is the function of the noseband?
The function of the noseband is often mistaken as merely keeping the horse’s mouth closed and covering up training faults. There is no place in training or competition for a noseband that is adjusted to the point that it restricts mouth movement, visually compresses the soft tissues, causes discomfort or constricts the nostrils.
However, a “correctly” fitted noseband does have a function:
- When correctly fitted, the noseband can help stabilise the bridle, preventing excessive movement of the headpiece, bit and cheekpieces.
- Instability of the bridle can cause problems for the horse – including discomfort, risk of rubbing and damage to the mouth, or impacting against parts of the head and ears as the bridle moves.
- In training, it is desirable for the horse to be able to relax the jaw and “mouth the bit.” When a noseband is correctly fitted, this is comfortable for the horse, including if chewing. If the horse opens its mouth more widely then the horse creates low-level pressure against the noseband as the upper and lower jaws come in contact with the noseband. This contact encourages the horse to avoid opening the mouth so wide that the bit and bridle become displaced and destabilised, as when the mouth is settled, the pressure is immediately removed, encouraging acceptance and preventing unintentional evasion of the bit.
- The noseband can allow for the attachment of health-supporting accessories such as nose nets.
There are considerable differences between a noseband fitted to restrict mouth opening and a “correctly” fitted noseband, and it is essential to distinguish these differences in noseband discussions.
Further reading and watching:
Bridle fitting guidelines: https://www.worldhorsewelfare.org/advice/bridles-how-to-choose-and-fit-them-correctly?srsltid=AfmBOorOGLfgrP_MimX8-AxVG_gIOLRm7mk8I4XoNuYvC-aw7RoAcyrK
Bridle fitting webinar with Dr Rachel Murray: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L1j3gnKFGNo