Achieve the perfect balance of refined control and gentle encouragement with a bit designed to keep your horse focused and responsive. The Blue Sweet Iron Tom Thumb Pelham offers the ideal solution for horses that need more than a snaffle but thrive with the moderate leverage and relaxing mouthfeel of short shanks and brass rollers.

Crafted by Shires, this bit combines traditional design with modern materials to enhance communication between horse and rider. The blue sweet iron mouthpiece is specifically engineered to oxidize upon contact with moisture, creating a sweet taste that naturally promotes salivation and bit acceptance. This chemical reaction, paired with the soothing action of the brass rollers, ensures a soft, supple mouth even during demanding performance rounds in the jumping arena or on the hunt field.

Key Features & Specifications:

• Blue Sweet Iron Mouthpiece: Naturally oxidizes to create a pleasant taste, encouraging salivation and a more relaxed, accepting jaw.
• Integrated Brass Rollers: Provides a "fidget" for the horse to play with, helping to keep the mouth quiet and the horse focused on your subtle aids.
• Short Tom Thumb Shanks: Delivers moderate leverage and poll pressure, offering a "lifting" effect off the forehand without the intensity of traditional long-shanked Pelhams.
• Available in Multiple Sizes: Choose from 4.5" (pony/refined), 5.0" (standard horse), or 5.5" (large horse) to ensure the perfect fit for your mount.
• Precision Engineering: Features a mouthpiece thickness of approximately 12mm–14mm, providing ample room for the tongue and palate to prevent discomfort.
• Versatile Discipline Performance: An excellent choice for Show Jumping, Eventing (XC), and Polo where quick, clear communication and braking power are essential.
• Fixed Cheek Stability: The fixed cheek design prevents the bit from sliding side-to-side; for best results, fit with 1/8" (3mm) of clearance on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Is this bit suitable for a horse that is strong but sensitive?
A: Absolutely. The Tom Thumb shanks provide the necessary braking power for horses that lean or get strong, while the sweet iron and rollers ensure the horse remains comfortable and accepting of the contact rather than becoming defensive.

Q: Why is the mouthpiece turning brown or "rusting"?
A: This is a natural and intended feature of Blue Sweet Iron! The oxidation process creates the sweet taste that horses love, which is exactly why it is one of the most popular materials for encouraging a moist, soft mouth.

Q: Can I use this bit in Dressage competitions?
A: No, while this bit is highly effective for jumping, hunt seat equitation, and polo, it is not legal for use in sanctioned Dressage phases or competitions.

Item Number/SKU: 800425