Just Roll With It
If your horse feels tense or has trouble accepting the bit, rollers might be the solution. One or more pieces rotate, encouraging your horse to play with the bit. This playfulness prompts your horse to relax his mouth and jaw and be more willing to accept the bit. Plus, most roller bits are budget-friendly.
You may want to try a bit with a roller if your horse has a tense jaw, is hard to get on the bit, or is nervous or anxious. If a roller bit is for you, decide if you need a snaffle bit or curb bit. You can further narrow down your selection by the style of rein ring (eggbutt, D-ring, etc.) and even by the number of rollers (single, double, multiple).
Bit Basics
All bits, whether English or Western, have a mouthpiece and rein rings. Western bits also have a cheek and most have an attachment for a curb chain.
All rollers, if your bit has one, will be on the mouthpiece. If there’s only one, it should be in the center.
Why might you need a bit with rollers?
There are many reasons why you might prefer a bit with rollers:
- Your horse is tense in the jaw
- Your horse resists bit contact
- Your horse is a “Nervous Nelly”
- You want a softer, more supple horse
Summary Table:
| Category | Bit | Price Point | Key Feature(s) |
| Best Snaffle w/ Rollers | Korsteel Stainless Steel Copper Roller Mouth Eggbutt Snaffle | $30-$50 | -consistent contact -copper roller -double joint |
| Best Western Snaffle w/ Rollers | Western SS Copper Roller Snaffle D-Ring | $20-$30 | -single joint -sturdy design -stainless steel |
| Best Bit w/ Cricket Roller | Toklat Medium Port Copper Curb | $50-$80 | -copper roller -medium port -stainless steel |
| Best 3-piece Snaffle w/ Copper Roller | SS D-Ring Dog Bone Copper Roller Mouth Snaffle | $20-$30 | -stainless steel -sleek design -comfortable |
| Best D-Ring Snaffle w/ Roller | Professional Equine Stainless Steel D-Ring Comfort Snaffle with Copper Rollers | $30-$50 | -double rollers -copper -hinged at the center |
| Best Curb w/ Rollers | Reinsman 776 All Around Curb Bit with Copper Roller | $80-$100 | -short shank -sweet iron & copper -swivel cheeks |
Bits with Rollers
Rollers can be found on bits of all sizes and styles. English and Western riders will be able to find something to suit their needs. If you or your horse is a beginner, stick with a snaffle. Have an extra-anxious horse? Consider a bit with multiple rollers for added distraction.
Best Snaffle Bit with Rollers
If you’re looking for a snaffle bit with a roller, look no further than the Korsteel Stainless Steel Copper Roller Mouth Eggbutt Snaffle. This bit functions for both everyday use as well as competitions.
Click to see it at Amazon
- Copper (encourages salivation)
- Double-jointed (more even pressure distribution)
- Good if your horse has a sensitive mouth
CONS:
- Single roller (some horses may lose interest)
- Copper (if your horse doesn’t like the taste)
Best Western Snaffle Bit with Rollers
Snaffle bits aren’t often associated with Western riding, but the Western SS Copper Roller Snaffle D-Ring bit will have you thinking twice.
Click to see it at Amazon
- Multiple copper rollers
- Relieves boredom
- Pinch-free
CONS:
- Doesn’t have the traditional look of a Western bit
- Not all horses will like the double-jointed mouthpiece
Best Bit with Cricket Roller
The Toklat Medium Port Copper Curb combines the extra control of a shank with the soothing power of a roller. Perfect for a strong, nervous horse who needs to soften to the bit.
Click to see it at Amazon
- Small rein rings
- Mouthpiece small, good for sensitive horses
CONS:
- Not suitable for beginner horses (or riders)
Best 3-Piece Snaffle Bit with Copper Roller
Your search might end with the SS D-Ring Dog Bone Copper Roller Mouth Snaffle Bit. This bit can help improve your communication with your horse.
Click to see it at Amazon
- Single copper roller
- Modest D-ring
- Three-piece design encourages suppling
CONS:
- Mouthpiece is thicker, sensitive horses may not like it
Best D-Ring Snaffle with Roller
The Professional Equine Stainless Steel D-Ring Comfort Snaffle with Copper Rollers is a solid option if you’re looking for a combination of D-ring and rollers.
Click to see it at Amazon
- Mild center joints
- Two slender, double copper rollers
- Curved mouthpiece that’s good for sensitive horses
CONS:
- Doesn’t have the traditional “D” rein ring shape
Best Curb Bit with Rollers
If you need a little more power, the Reinsman 776 All Around Curb Bit with Copper Roller is a great curb option. A combination of three metals (stainless steel, copper, and sweet) offers the perfect blend of function and design.
Click to see it at Amazon
- Three-piece mouthpiece
- Superb craftsmanship
- Mild shank
CONS:
- Mouthpiece is bulky, may not be suitable for horses with sensitive tongues
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why do horse bits have rollers?
Horse bits have rollers to help encourage them to relax and accept the bit.
Q: What does a copper roller do on a bit?
Copper is a metal that can stimulate a horse to salivate. The extra saliva works to soften how the bit feels in their mouth. If you choose a copper roller bit, not only should your horse start to relax his jaw, but he will likely salivate more and be a much softer ride.
Q: Does my horse need a bit with a roller?
If your horse is tense in the jaw or heavy in your hand, a bit with a roller could be a great solution. Roller bits are also handy for nervous horses, as it gives them something to do (other than, say, look for the next plastic bag to spook at).
Photo Cred: Canva
Parting Thoughts
Bits with rollers can be great tools for a variety of issues. Most rollers are copper, which has a pleasant taste (for most horses) and encourages salivation. You can use a bit with rollers temporarily as a training tool for a horse that’s tense or hard to get on the bit as well as for everyday rides and competitions. Even if your horse doesn’t have an issue that would benefit from a roller, they can be lots of fun for your horse to play with.
P.S. Enjoy this article? Trot on over to:
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