[QUOTE=Small Change;8165453]
For what it’s worth, I would suggest ordering an over size bridle, then taking it to a good saddler to have the length shortened. I had a 14.3 hh connie/TB who was between pony and cob sizes, so bought him a cob bridle, then had the cheeks and noseband hanger shortened to fit him. The bridle ended up looking like a custom job. The saddler didn’t cut any length off, so if I wanted to, I could take the bridle back and have it lengthened back out to a normal cob size as well.[/QUOTE]
This is what I would be doing.
If you liked the Excel Bromont, and depending on where it was too large, I’d just get it and have it altered. (If you got it at Bahr’s, they do in-house leather work - lots of it and are very reputable - I would just take the necessary measurements to them.) The only issue you might have is if the browband was far too large or if the portion of the crown piece that passes over the poll is too big. Those parts would be difficult to alter. But just about everywhere else is easily adjustable by a decent saddler.
(Not sure where in Ontario you are, but Fincham’s in Nobleton is also excellent with alterations. They also custom make bridles but I think they are out of your price range. Another option is Martin’s Saddlery in Newmarket. He makes all sorts of strap goods as well as bridles. The leather is very good but the stitching is only seven per inch which may not be as fine as you want. But his products are well- made and durable. Also Baker’s in Gormley might be willing to swap parts to mix and match sizes.)
Personally, I’d be buying locally and having it altered if necessary rather than attempting to order from the U.S. and incurring absolutely ridiculous shipping and customs brokerage fees from some retailers in the States! (Actually, it’s Fed Ex and UPS that have the extortionate brokerage fees. If you absolutely must order from the U.S., have it shipped USPS.)
