'Snaffles should be allowed in all international dressage'

Riders should have the option to leave the double bridle aside, according to a leading equestrian research body

- LUCY ELDER

RIDERS should be given the option to use a snaffle bridle instead of a double in all international dressage, according to a leading equine research support body.

The call came from the International Society for Equitation Science (ISES), which promotes equine welfare by improving horse-human interactions through research and evidence-based practices, in an open letter to the FEI.

It follows the release of the first draft of FEI rules for 2024, which does not include a recommendation from the equine ethics and Wellbeing Commission (EEWC) to give riders at grand prix the choice to use a double bridle or not.

The reasoning comes from their support of the “precautionary principle” – considering the possibility of harm when conclusive evidence is not yet available.

ISES “strongly endorses” the EEWC’s work, particularly the 30 recommendations and proposed vision of a “good life for horses” (news, 4 May).