What Bit Is Best For An Ex-Racehorse (OTT Thoroughbred)?

What Bit Is Best For An Ex-Racehorse (OTT Thoroughbred)?

The best bit for an ex-racehorse is typically one with no downward tongue pressure and a stable, locking mouthpiece, such as the Neue Schule Turtle Top range, because most off-the-track Thoroughbreds have been ridden in strong tongue-pressure bits during racing and need time to rebuild trust in a softer, more consistent contact.

Why ex-racehorses need different bitting

Most OTT Thoroughbreds come off the track having been ridden in ring bits or other strong tongue-pressure equipment designed to control speed rather than encourage a soft, accepting contact. This often results in tongue evasion, grinding, chomping, leaning or general distrust of contact during retraining.

Recommended bits for OTT Thoroughbreds

The Neue Schule Turtle Top Snaffle or Eggbutt is frequently the best starting point for a fussy, overactive or grinding mouth, since it uses no downward tongue pressure and has a locking link that reduces the horse's ability to play with or evade the bit.

The Bombers Happy Tongue Eggbutt works well for horses with extreme tongue sensitivity or those that consistently try to get the tongue over the bit.

The Neue Schule Turtle Tactio range suits horses with high head carriage or those who are particularly fussy and sensitive, since it uses minimal pressure on both the tongue and lower jaw.

What to expect during retraining

Most OTT Thoroughbreds respond well within the first few weeks of consistent, correct bitting, provided the rest of the retraining programme also supports a calm, settled approach to contact. Patience matters as much as bit choice — even the right bit takes time to undo old patterns.

Bit Bank Australia has worked extensively with OTT Thoroughbred owners and retrainers across Australia. Our accredited bit fitters can recommend a tailored solution for your horse, and our 30 day trial lets you test the bit risk free. Book a consultation.