How To Measure for a Bridle

Bridles typically come in a standardised sizes such as Pony, Cob, Full and Extra Full. When you purchase a bridle in one of these sizes, all the components - headpiece, noseband, cheekpieces and browband - are typically provided in the same size.

However, due to the unique anatomy of each horse’s head, it is likely that horse’s will need a combination of different sizes to achieve an optimal fit - one size doesn’t usually fit all. That’s why accurately measuring your horse’s head and considering their individual features will ensure a correct fit, providing comfort and enhancing performance.

Measuring for the Headpiece -

The headpiece should be measured 1/2" (or 1 finger width) below the horses ear base over the top of the horses head, if the distance between the split to split is too small this will cause the browband to pinch.

Split to Split - Pony - 12", Cob - 13", Full - 14", Extra Full - 15".

Measuring for the Browband -

The browband should fit about 1/2" (or 1 finger width) below the base of the ear. Make sure the browband is not too tight and is not pulling the headpiece onto the back of the ears. It’s always best for the browband to be slightly loose. The easiest way to measure the browband is to take a look at your current browband to see whether you are able to get 1 fingers width under the front without any tightness. If the browband appears to be the correct length you will then need to measure the total length of the browband off the horse to determine the length needed.

Total length (add 0.5" for curved/u-shaped) - Pony - 14.5", Cob - 15.5", Full - 16.5", Extra Full - 17.5".

Measuring for the Cheekpiece -

With your existing bridle on the horse, measure from the top of the corner of the eye to the top of the bit ring. This will determine the length of the cheekpieces required.

Total length - Pony - 7", Cob - 8", Full - 9", Extra Full - 10".

Measuring for the Noseband -

For a Cavesson / Flash measure around the horse’s nose, approximately 1–2  fingers below the cheekbone. This measurement helps ensure that the noseband is neither too tight nor too loose.

Cavesson / Flash Noseband - Pony 20 - 22", Cob 22" - 24", Full 24 - 26", Extra Full 26" - 28".

Measure from the corner of the cheekbone to the opposite side under the chin to the opposite cheekbone, creating a figure of 8 on the horses face.

Grackle Noseband - Pony 29 - 32", Cob 32" - 35", Full 35" - 38", Extra Full 38 - 41".

It’s important to note that different companies may have their own methods for measuring bridles, and some may provide specialised tools or forms to assist with the process. For example, at Henry James Saddlery, we offer a bridle fitting tape measure along with detailed instructions to simplify the measuring process. Using these tools can help ensure that you get the most accurate measurements for a comfortable and well-fitting bridle.