The Pelham bit is one of the most widely used bits in English riding, combining the direct action of a snaffle with the leverage action of a curb in a single mouthpiece. It was developed as a practical solution for horses that need more control than a simple snaffle provides but are ridden by those who prefer to manage everything with one bit and one (or two) sets of reins. Understanding how a Pelham bit works — and when to use it — is fundamental knowledge for any serious equestrian.
Construction of the Pelham Bit
A Pelham bit features a single mouthpiece with cheekpieces that extend both above and below the mouthpiece rings. The upper rings attach to the cheekpieces of the bridle, and the lower shanks extend downward to carry the curb rein. A lip strap passes through a small ring at the end of each shank to stabilise the bit and prevent it from rotating excessively in the mouth.
A curb chain — or curb strap — runs under the chin groove and is essential to the action of the Pelham. When the curb rein is applied, leverage through the shanks causes the mouthpiece to rotate and the curb chain to tighten against the chin groove, applying simultaneous pressure to the poll (via the headpiece), the bars, and the chin groove. The degree of leverage depends on the length of the shank: longer shanks produce more leverage and therefore a stronger action.
Mouthpieces vary considerably. A straight bar Pelham gives a uniform pressure across the tongue and bars. A jointed mouthpiece — sometimes called a Hartwell Pelham — introduces nutcracker action similar to a snaffle. A mullen (slightly curved) mouthpiece is gentler, reducing direct bar pressure by distributing weight more evenly across the tongue. Many horses go better in a rubber or vulcanite mouthpiece than a metal one.
How the Pelham Bit Works
When ridden with two sets of reins, the upper (snaffle) rein acts directly on the bit rings and produces a snaffle-like effect — lifting the bit in the mouth and applying lateral pressure to guide the horse. The lower (curb) rein engages the curb chain and poll pressure, giving the rider additional authority over pace and head carriage.
The skill lies in using these two actions independently. During ordinary work, most contact is maintained on the snaffle rein. The curb rein is used to half-halt, collect, or check an onward-bound horse — then softened immediately. Holding a steady strong contact on both reins simultaneously produces a fixed, unyielding action that defeats the purpose of the bit.
Some riders use a Pelham with a single set of reins connected via roundings (short leather loops joining the snaffle and curb rings together). This is common in showing, where a single rein is neater in appearance, and in Pony Club work for younger riders. The action becomes a blend of both effects rather than independent application.
Which Horses Go Well in a Pelham Bit?
The Pelham is traditionally favoured for horses that pull, are strong on the forehand, or need steadying in front of fences. It is common in show jumping, working hunter classes, polo, and hunting. Many horses that become too strong in a snaffle but overly restricted in a double bridle find a Pelham a comfortable middle ground.
Horses with short, thick heads — cobs, native breeds, many ponies — often cannot comfortably carry both a bradoon and a weymouth (as required for a double bridle) because the space in the mouth is limited. A Pelham gives similar control with a single mouthpiece. For this reason, it is particularly common in working cob and show cob classes.
It is also frequently used with children riding strong ponies. A pony that has learned to lean on a snaffle can be significantly more manageable in a Pelham with a pair of roundings, giving the young rider effective brakes without requiring independent two-rein technique.
Fitting the Pelham Bit
A correctly fitted Pelham should sit comfortably in the mouth with one or two wrinkles at the corner of the lips — the same as a snaffle. It should not hang so low that it bangs against the teeth, nor so high that it causes excessive wrinkling or discomfort.
The curb chain is critical to correct function. Fitted correctly, it should lie flat in the chin groove and engage when the shanks reach approximately 45 degrees from the horizontal — any tighter and it acts before the rider intends; any looser and it provides no feedback until the shank is pulled hard back. Check the chain regularly for twist and wear.
Bit width should be the same as for any other bit — narrow enough to sit without gap at the sides but not so narrow that it pinches. Most horses take the same width Pelham as they do snaffle.
Rules on Pelham Bit Use in Competition
The Pelham is permitted in a wide range of affiliated and unaffiliated competitions, including working hunter classes, show jumping, polo, and eventing at most levels. It is not permitted in pure dressage competition under British Dressage rules, which require either a snaffle or a double bridle depending on the level. Always check the rules of your specific discipline and governing body before competing. The British Horse Society provides guidance on appropriate bitting for different disciplines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Pelham bit harsh?
The Pelham is a leverage bit and therefore has the potential to be used harshly — but so does any bit in the wrong hands. In experienced hands with an elastic contact, a Pelham with a rubber mullen mouthpiece can be a kind and effective choice for the right horse. Harshness is a function of the rider’s hands and understanding, not just the equipment. That said, horses with sensitive mouths or those in early training are generally better started in a simple snaffle.
Can I use a Pelham with one rein?
Yes. Roundings — short leather loops connecting the snaffle and curb rings — allow a Pelham to be ridden on a single rein. This blends both actions simultaneously and is widely used in showing and Pony Club. The downside is that you cannot apply snaffle and curb independently. For horses that need precise contact, two full reins are preferable.
What is the difference between a Pelham and a kimblewick?
Both are single-rein leverage bits, but they operate differently. The kimblewick (or kimberwick) has a D-shaped ring and a small slot through which the rein passes; the position of the rein in the slot determines the degree of leverage applied. The Pelham has distinct snaffle and curb rings with shanks, giving greater flexibility when used with two reins. The kimblewick tends to be more suitable for strong ponies ridden with a single rein; the Pelham offers more nuance for experienced riders.