Hunter Bridle at $150 price point - Padded, fancy stitched, regular noseband and monocrown?

[puzzle]

I am looking for a new show bridle for my OTTB, who of course requires a horse size bridle (I currently only have an O/S show bridle for my enormous-headed previous OTTBs that thought that they were WBs).
Criteria:

• fancy stitched, padded noseband and browband
• monocrown or comfort crown
• ~$150 (does not need to include reins)
• NOT wide noseband
• soft-ish, NOT plastic-y leather (I don’t expect this to be buttery like an Edgewood, but I want it not to wrinkle or crack with use, and to take oil properly)

I have heard mixed things about the Smartpak Harwich line and the Dover Indulge bridles, both of which offer options at this price point. I’ve seen the Royal bridles listed online but never seen them in person - are they any good? Other recommendations? Really can’t go above $150 right now and I have been looking used for a good long while without finding what I’m looking for.

I have one HDR bridle from this price point that I would never-ever show in (that plasticy leather that wrinkles), although it’s great for schooling. A friend has a similar HDR that I would TOTALLY show in with leather to die for (feels and looks like an Edgewood). I have seen a buttery Harwich in person but see less than flattering reviews elsewhere. Ovation’s prices have gone up and I have heard mixed reviews as well. I’ve never seen the Da Vinci line that Horseloverz sells - the photos look ok, but I’m afraid they are junk.

Basically, point me towards a bridle?

[Tha_Ridge]

I really can’t figure out the HDR lines—my experience had been more in line with yours re: your schooling bridle, but on a whim, I ordered a simple HDR flash bridle for $80 off Amazon, of all places, and it’s oiled up beautifully and I’ve gotten compliments on it. So, maybe take the plunge on an HDR and return it if it’s crap? (ETA: Here’s the mysteriously nice $80 HDR bridle https://www.amazon.com/Henri-Rivel-Plain-Raised-Bridle/dp/B0091Z8VTW/)

[OnDeck]

Try looking at Facebook pages for used tack. The new bridles at that price point will either be cheap leather or hit or miss like the Smartpak ones.

I bought a Bobby’s bridle that fits exactly what you’re looking for on Facebook for around $150. A used Pessoa would also do the trick.

[splitrockfarmnc]

I bought a Collegiate bridle that I’ve been very happy with. It needed some pretty serious oiling brand new out of the packaging but it has suppled up nicely! It wasn’t this exact bridle (mine was black, plain, for dressage) but maybe this would work for you?

Collegiate Mono Crown Fancy Stitched Raised Cavesson Bridle

[HJdaydream]

I have never seen or tried one myself, but I’ve heard these C&C bridles are nice for the price point:

http://cc-signature.com/c-c-fancy-stitch-traditional-bridle/

[Alice]

I had one, it was indeed very nice. The owner was also very good to do business with.

The C&C bridle I mean, in case this doesn’t show up as a reply to HJdaydream.

[blondewithchrome]

Mine is C&C! Super super soft and beautiful for a great price. Can’t recommend enough.

[fourfillies]

The CandC is very nice for the price point. Couldn’t make it work to fit my guy but the customer service was excellent.

[puzzle]

C&C it is; thanks all!

[TheJenners]

I know you made your decision, but I don’t know if it’s luck or what but I’ve always had great luck with HDR leather goods - several bridles that are buttery soft and magically repel mold, and two nice breast collars, one raised and fancy and one flat.

[puzzle]

That’s the funny thing! I have had several pairs of magical gorgeous stirrup leathers made of calf from them - much less expensive and nearly as nice as CWD. Unfortunately I paid a pretty penny for this last bridle and was dearly disappointed - HDR is either extremely overpriced for junk or extremely cheap for the quality that it is and you don’t know what you will get without having seen it, I guess.

[ThreeWishes]

Wow! The C&C bridles look lovely! My last purchase was a Wellfleet wide noseband anatomical (contoured away from the ears). I really like it but the leather on the throat latch is starting to ripple and it’s only a year old
Edited to add I think it was over $200. Why do leather strap goods seem so hit and miss in recent years? At all the price points …

[puzzle]

I ordered a C&C and I will let you know how it is when it gets here! In the mean time I also found out this little company (not affiliated with) gets rave reviews:

Home - Pure Harmony Equine

Mostly posting because apparently I’m not the only one with “where can I get decent quality strap goods without paying an arm and a leg?” issues these days. Anyone seen these Pure Harmony ones in person?

[Rescueottbhunter]

The C and C bridles look to be royal sports tack or exion brand bridles. I have the rubber reins and they are the exact same as my exion ones.

[Equestrian24]

I have not really been impressed with a lot of the HDR bridles I’ve seen lately, either. I have a flash bridle from them and while it’s meh, I do think it’s a bit plasticky and painted on. I think I remember some of their older bridles from years ago being better, but that’s been ~15 years ago. I still have a pair of stirrup leathers around that age that aren’t luxurious or anything, but don’t have the painted on finish (and were originally bright orange).

Personally, out of the new bridles in that price range, I would pick Ovation. I’ve been pleased with all of my Ovation brand tack, accessories, and apparel, and think it’s solid and good quality for the price point.

If you can find one that matches what you’re looking for, Exselle is an excellent value. They are made by the same factory that made Crosby tack for Miller’s, but are harder to find, especially in more specialized styles.

I have a pair of Joseph Sterling reins I’ve been pretty pleased with, so that might be something to look into (although I’m not sure how old my reins are and if the quality has since changed).

Otherwise, I second the suggestions to look into the used market. I’ve found some amazing deals on eBay and sometimes Maryland Saddlery will have some really nice deals. I’ve seen a few HK Americana and Aramas bridles on their site, and own an Americana and love it (and have loved the Aramas tack I’ve seen).

[vxf111]

That was my thought too

[BITSA]

I like Nunn Finer

[BITSA]

Also have a Joseph Sterling halter thats nice

[Cabaret_SK]

I’m not sure the breakdown of the different Bobby’s lines now, but the one’s I have had have all been very nice for the price. This is a little bit more than $150, but ticks all the boxes.

Silver Spur Fancy Stitched Padded Monocrown Snaffle Bridle

[LisaU12]

Thank you for the shout out Puzzle. I own Pure Harmony Equine. All items are made of high quality Italian leather to my specs. I carry a large selection in stock for fast shipping.