What is your budget, to start? Size, specifics? Discipline? Do not confuse “soft out of the bag” with quality - usually, the sturdier it is out of the bag, the better it is able to withstand the rigors of horses.
PS quality leaves me lukewarm. They do not develop that rich broken-in patina seen in higher quality bridles. Similar to Micklems, when cleaned they look dingy.
Bridle2Fit is better for the price, but still not sold on their company. I wouldn’t buy either new.
I won’t spend money on a Schockemohle again. I had to return two brand new bridles, both with defects. I really wanted to like them since I love their Delta design… but mine lasted exactly a week before it broke. I used to also routinely send back Schockemohles when I worked for a big tack vendor because they would have manufacturer defects. They’re not on my list of quality bridles though many people report zero issues…
I have an Eponia that I like so much I’m ordering a second in a different style. My OG Eponia is nearing its 4th year of daily abuse; it’s been hunted in, hacked in, gone to the ocean, completions, rained on, generally abused and it’s polished up really well. I spent $150 on it (bridle & reins) and it’s been one of my better purchases by far in terms of “quality on a budget”. I get tons of compliments on it and it still looks wonderful.
Don’t discount shopping your local consignment shops. I’ve picked up some really high end bridles (OS, Edgewood, Antares) for songs - most of them making great Frankenbridles within a budget. Stubbens and Passiers also shouldn’t be overlooked - while less “en vogue” these are warhorse bridles that go on well past an average bridle’s life time.
