In this episode of the Dressage Today Podcast, sponsored by EQUESTRIAN+, Aviva and Stephany talk with custom bit maker Beth Haist, who owns and operates The Horse of Course, Inc., a full-service tack shop and fixture at many of the nation’s top dressage competitions. We learn how she got involved with horses and ended up in the tack business creating custom bits.
Beth offers valuable information on the different “levels” of bits including what to use when starting horses, why and when you might consider switching bits, how different bit rings affect a horse and the various metals used in bit making and why you would use one over the other. She talks about fitting bits, the ins and outs of horses’ mouths, why different bits can help in certain situations and also explains why the Baucher is not the bit it formerly was and why the French Link is no longer allowed in competition.
It was a fascinating conversation that we’ll continue later this summer! If you have a bit question for Beth, please message us via Dressage Today’s Facebook or Instagram, so we can share her answer on a future episode or our website. Read more about her custom bits here.
In this episode, we also catch up on Stephany’s recent horse show experience and celebrate that Dante is now an official Fourth Level dressage horse. And in the “Ask the L” segment, Aviva answers a question about whether you should change the hand you carry your whip in when you change directions. She discusses the do’s and don’ts and also explains when you’re allowed to carry a whip during a class and when you cannot.
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About This Podcast’s Sponsor: EQUESTRIAN+
From short training tips to how-to videos and insider-access to private clinics and lessons, learn from top dressage experts with EQUESTRIAN+. Watch exclusive interviews and lectures, slow motion demonstrations and step-by-step tutorials taught by top-level pros and explore cross-discipline topics such as groundwork, rider fitness and stable management. Visit equestrianplus.com to sign up for a 7-day free trial with subscription.
