The Waterford running gag bit: how does it work and what type of horse does it suit?
for use by skilled educated riders only.
The Waterford mouthpiece is useful for horses that the rider may feel need to be lighter on the forehand. It can also be helpful for strong bold horses who when in fast work tend to snatch or take hold of the bit and pull. It can help to provide the rider with better levels of control making and it a popular choice for crosscountry or showjumping.
However success over failure will be depend upon the skill and empathy of the rider who will require an independent seat and rewarding hands. When employed by a skilled rider it can also be helpful for some training purposes to promote selfcarriage and response.
As the Waterford flexes so much it generally suits all types of mouth conformation from full mouths to long slim ones.
Waterford running gag cheeks
There are several running cheek options available for those purchasing a Waterford running gag including
Nylon cord these have a faster action because the bit moves more freely upon them. They have the advantage of being very practical and strong. They are often made with a loop which enables them to be changed from one bit to another.
Leather these look smarter than nylon and tend to have a slightly slower action of the leather does not slide through the bits rings as quickly. These will be stitched at each end so they cannot be easily removed. Another option is the have leather running cheeks with button or screw studs. These can be undone to enable the bit to be changed.
As a running gag is generally used for a strong forward going horse when in fast work it may be advantageous to have the strongest cheeks possible and to securely stitch them to the bit.
Other useful things to consider
When using a looseringed running
gag rubber bit guards can be added to help prevent pinching of the horses lips. If using these the mouthpiece of the bit will need to be slightly wider than the horse normally wears.
Running gags are designed to be ridden with two sets of reins. This allows the rider to predominantly use the snaffle rein for a milder action only employing the lower rein running gag action when required.
Always check the condition of the leather and stitching on both the running gags bridle cheekpieces and the headpiece to which they are attached before use.
كإجراء للسلامة يوصى بأن يكون عرض الجلد الذي يتم تثبيت الخدود عليه 34 بوصة على الأقل إن لم يكن 58 بوصة. لا ينصح باستخدام لجام مقاس ½ بوصة على لجام الكمامة.
