Hi! I know most of the time Bosals are used for starting horses but I was wondering why people don’t use Bosals on a middle aged horses who know the basics? My 15 year old gelding who knows all the basics does fine in a bit but my goal is to get him bitless for long distances. I’ve tried a side pull but he pushes through it. I thought a bosal might be a good middle ground but no one I know does this. What are your thoughts?
Thanks again!
I have used a bosal on 3 horses. All were 6 or older when I first used it. My one mare can’t go in a bit (jaw issues), so at home I ride in a rope halter, and for trails or showing (western dressage), she shows in a bosal.
My new mare, who goes very well in a snaffle, also goes well in a bosal, so I like using it when hacking out so she can snack, and if I show western dressage I also plan to use it on her.
Interestingly, neither of the above horses like a side pull. For the first, I think it is how it hits her cheek bones, but for my other mare, I have no idea why she doesn’t like the side pull, yet is fantastic in the bosal.
I started using a bosal mostly because I wanted to try it, and add it to my skill list, (plus I like the look), but I continue to use it because it keeps me correct and light in my riding. It’s an interesting tool.
Like any bit, a horse needs to be trained to understand and respond to it. So just putting a bosal or side pull on a horse will not work if the horse has net been trained for it. Just like a bit–if the horse runs through it, a stronger bit will not help. The horse must be trained to respect and respond to the bit.
I don’t find it ideal for times when I want to go bitless on the trail. It’s harsher than a typical sidepull, so a sidepull is my go-to. Plus, I like the lateral control I have in a side pull. I start horses in snaffles, but show a lot of youngsters in bosals, so I use them a lot just not as a “let down” piece of headgear. That said, if you need more than the sidepull you might like it. Learn how to adjust them correctly, as I more often than not see them incorrectly fitted. School in one before you head out, as the feel of it is much different than a snaffle. Much more curb action.
Ok! Thanks y’all! I’ll hold off on the bosal for now.
