I've been wanting to ride my horse bitless for a while now, and did the usual thing, went to the local horse shop and bought a bitless bridle. There didn't seem to be much more to it than that, other than learning how to ride in it and adjusting it to my big headed friend. Well, my boy has such a large head he didn't fit the bridle, even though I'd let it out to it's maximum length! So, I trundled back to the horse shop and they made me some longer cheek straps (and charged me a small fortune for it!!!) and away I went. Still more problems! It was cutting cruelly into his nose and he clearly hated it! What to do??? I made my own adjustments to soften the nose strap. No, he still hated the thing. What do I do??!!! LOL! What most people do these days! I jumped onto Facebook and asked my horsey friends for advice! And the advice poured in!!! There are so many different bitless bridles out there I became confused and still didn't know what to do.
So, I chose Cypress Lodge, as they're local (meaning same country and state) and I'd been told that they would custom make a halter to fit my boy. I emailed them and had a quick and friendly reply, both empathetic and informative. They sent me the info I needed to measure my horse and away I went. They didn't charge me extra for a custom made riding halter and reins, and even provided me with extra long reins for my big headed boy, again at no extra cost!!
Well, it doesn't stop there! The after sales support is excellent!!! We've had a few emails back and forth and they never get impatient, they're just happy to help in any way they can.
They also make other items such as lead ropes, quick release safety ties etc..
OK, how did my boy go with the Enduro halter? He was a much more relaxed and responsive horse! The difference was immediate! I still need to learn to be soft on the reins, but I actually find that easier with the Enduro. Being used to leather reins it will take a while to get used to the marine rope, but it does have a good feel and weight. I also use the Enduro as a halter and detach the reins and use them as a lead rope. But, I think I'll be looking at their lead ropes next... :)
I haven't ridden him down the road in it yet, I'll do that in a few days time. But, I have to say, he resents (a little) riding in HIS paddock, but it wasn't so bad in the Enduro, he just had a little attitude ;) and totally understandable too!
Well, I'm so impressed with this company that when my new horse arrives I'm going to be placing another order!
Many thanks to you both! Rob and Sharon! Your support and service is second to none.