I like the Plymouth bridles from SmartPak, durable and mine still looks nice enough to show in after three years. I like the Crown’s too but they can run a bit big. My dainty headed TB can’t wear the full size, and the cob’s noseband is too small. Love my Plymouth though. And check out eBay, lots of good deals on lightly used big brands.
Tory Leather makes a decent american made english bridle that is reasonably priced.
I have two of the Bobby’s bridles, and they are great. I also have an Ovation martingale that was a good buy and has held up well. so I’d assume their bridles are similar.
Tack Zone has a big selection of Bobby’s tack.
I would probably go with Ovation. I like the SmartPak Harwich, but the fit can be off. The Ovation is a little more “average” in its fit.
Alternatively, look for a used Edgewood, etc.
It really depends on your standards. I think these are all reasonable suggestions, but some are nicer than others. I found, of all things, a Perris that I swear is made of Sedgewick’s leather and can pass for an Edgewood. Swear.to.god. It’s from their “professional” line. This thing is a freak. It was in the $30 bin at a trade show, new with tags. I should have bought them ALL. I swear it feels like an Edgewood oiled. Other Perris leather is nowhere near as nice but if by some miracle you can lay your hands on one of these-- it’s amazing quality for even the $150ish retail price. DO see if you can check it out in person, because as I said the other Perris leather is nowhere near as nice.
Very happy with my Ovation. I also adore the Schneiders bridles! The Joseph Sterling is really nice, and a friend had the Pinnacle line which was nicer than Plymouth.
I agree with all the remarks about Smartpak’s bridle. I bought one of the Plymouths because I literally needed the cheapest bridle I could find, and I was VERY pleasantly surprised at how nice it was. Especially with a bit of conditioning.
