Gentle Contact Meets Precision Performance

If your horse is "mouth-shy" or tosses their head at the feel of cold stainless steel, the Shires Equikind+ Hanging Cheek Peanut Link Bit offers a softer, more inviting alternative. This bit combines the stability of a Baucher cheek with the warmth of a synthetic coating, helping your horse settle into a consistent, confident contact.

Unlike bulky traditional rubber bits, the 14mm Equikind+ material is slim enough for horses with low palates or large tongues. It is designed to be kind without sacrificing the clear communication you need in the arena or on the trail.

Key Benefits for Your Horse

• Warm & Soft Mouthpiece: The Equikind+ coating is a synthetic, rubber-like material that is warmer and softer than metal, making it ideal for sensitive horses who dislike the shock of a cold bit.
• Slim 14mm Profile: Engineered to be thinner than standard rubber bits, it provides a comfortable fit for horses with limited space in their mouths or large tongues.
• Stable Hanging Cheek Design: The Baucher style prevents the bit from sliding across the mouth and offers a touch of poll pressure to encourage flexion and a steady head carriage.
• Dressage Legal Peanut Link: The rounded lozenge center avoids the "nutcracker" effect of single joints, providing a mild action that is generally legal for FEI and USEF competition.
• Snug, Pinch-Free Fit: As a fixed cheek bit, it stays securely in place against the lips, reducing the risk of pinching compared to loose ring designs.

Best For

Riders with sensitive or mouth-shy horses looking for a stable, dressage-legal bit that encourages soft contact without the harshness of cold metal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Shires Equikind+ bit legal for dressage?

Yes, the Shires Equikind+ Hanging Cheek Peanut Link Bit features a rounded lozenge that is generally legal under FEI and USEF rules, though we always recommend double-checking your specific organization's current handbook for cheek length requirements.

Q: How do I choose the right size for a hanging cheek bit?

Because this is a fixed cheek bit, it should fit snugly against the horse's lips. Unlike a loose ring, you do not need the extra 1/4 inch of clearance; choose the size that matches your horse's actual mouth width for the most stable fit.

Q: Is the Equikind+ material durable?

Absolutely. While it is softer than steel to provide comfort for sensitive horses, the Equikind+ coating is engineered by Shires for long-lasting performance and daily barn use.

Item Number/SKU: 53114.5