I didn't get the memo- Micklem Bridles?

[wildlifer]

[QUOTE=ThirdCharm;7538339]
Note to those having problems with the poll pressure… The nose straps are NOT supposed to be tight! [/QUOTE]

Definitely should REDUCE poll pressure, don’t crank that nose strap down like a improper flash. It’s a bit stabilizer, not a nose prison.

And I 100% agree, it’s like every other tool – I think of it like a bit: trial & error and some horses will love it, some won’t care, some will hate it. Heck, both my horses DESPISE the KK Ultra loose ring snaffle, which according to many, is the Holy Grail of bits, LOL.

If you are interested, here’s my initial experience with it, with video:
http://www.teamflyingsolo.com/2012/12/a-skeptic-takes-on-micklem.html

Interestingly, I rode in it in a Eric Smiley clinic last summer (omg, amazing dude) and he is very good friends with William Micklem (all Irish people know each other, right??). Eric had made his own longe cavesson at home 20 years ago of a very similar design because he wasn’t happy with traditional ones & loved the results. So he observes with trademark Irish amusement as probably 80% of the clinic horses rode in in that bridle, but agrees that for many horses, particularly sensitive ones, it’s just a more sensible design.

[Auburn]

When I spent my week intensive training with Jim Graham last month, I noted that all of his horses go in Micklem bridles.

Despite the one "neigh"sayer on this thread, most of us agree that we like them. Since Dover has the try it to buy it deal, I guess that would be the way to go, especially if you are not certain which size would fit your horse best.

OP,

I am happy that it worked so well for your horse! :yes: It is always nice when just the change of a bridle can fix what is going on with your horse.

[cllane1]

I have used mine for about a year and truly don’t see my horse going any differently in it than in a regular bridle with a flash. But the two being equal, I like the Micklem because it is more streamlined with fewer straps and gives a cleaner look on the head. I’m not sure if mine stretched or what, but I was never able to get the bit straps high enough to hold the bit in the right position in my horse’s mouth. I had to order pony bit straps, and they are working well.