Waldhausen Jointed Rubber Pelham Bit with Curb Chain
Description
Waldhausen Jointed Rubber Pelham Bit with Flexible Shanks
The Waldhausen Jointed Rubber Pelham is a double-rein curb bit with a jointed polyurethane mouthpiece, flexible shanks and an included curb chain. It is best for riders who want the combined snaffle and curb action of a Pelham but a softer, covered mouthpiece rather than solid metal - a common choice for hacking, hunting, jumping and cross country, or for horses that lean and take hold in a plain snaffle.
The mouthpiece is 1.5cm thick with an upper cheek bar of 4cm and a lower cheek bar of 5cm, so it delivers curb leverage without an especially long shank. Ride it with two reins for the clearest separation of snaffle and curb action, or with roundings and a single rein.
Key Features
- High quality polyurethane mouthpiece for a softer feel than metal
- Jointed centre allows independent action on each side of the mouth
- Flexible shanks that move with the horse
- Curb chain included - ready to fit straight away
- 1.5cm mouthpiece thickness spreads pressure across the bars
- Upper cheek 4cm, lower cheek 5cm for moderate leverage
- Works with two reins or with Pelham roundings and a single rein
Specifications
| Brand | Waldhausen |
|---|---|
| Product type | Jointed Rubber Pelham bit |
| Mouthpiece material | High quality polyurethane |
| Mouthpiece | Jointed |
| Mouthpiece thickness | 1.5cm |
| Upper cheek bar | 4cm |
| Lower cheek bar | 5cm |
| Shanks | Flexible |
| Included | Curb chain |
| Country of origin | China |
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How to Use
- Measure your horse's current bit from the inside of one cheek to the inside of the other to confirm the mouthpiece width you need.
- Attach the bridle cheekpieces to the upper rings of the Pelham.
- Adjust the bridle so the mouthpiece sits level in the mouth, just touching the corners without creating deep wrinkles.
- Fit the included curb chain, twisted flat, into the curb groove so it engages when the shank rotates to roughly 45 degrees.
- Fit either two reins (snaffle rein to the upper ring, curb rein to the lower ring) or roundings with a single rein.
- Check the fit from the ground, then ride in an enclosed area first to see how your horse responds.
- Rinse the mouthpiece after use and dry before storing.
FAQ
What size Pelham does my horse need?
Measure an existing bit from the inside of one cheek to the inside of the other and match that width. The mouthpiece should sit level with about 5mm clear at each side of the mouth. Bit width is the most common reason bits are returned, so measure before ordering.
Is a rubber Pelham softer than a metal one?
The polyurethane covering gives a softer, warmer surface against the bars and tongue than bare metal, and many horses accept it more readily. The Pelham cheeks still create curb leverage, so it should be ridden with quiet, educated hands.
Do I need two reins or can I use roundings?
Two reins give the clearest separation between snaffle and curb action. Roundings joined to a single rein are simpler to handle, for example when jumping, but blend the two actions together. Both are used with this bit.
Is the curb chain included?
Yes, a curb chain is supplied with the bit. It should be twisted flat so the links lie smoothly in the curb groove.
Why is the mouthpiece jointed rather than straight?
The jointed centre lets each side of the bit act independently, which some horses find easier to accept than a fixed straight bar. It gives a slightly more mobile feel in the mouth.
How do I care for a polyurethane mouthpiece?
Rinse in clean water after each ride and dry before storing. Inspect for chew marks, splits or thinning and replace the bit if the surface is damaged.
About Waldhausen
Waldhausen is a long-established German equestrian brand making saddlery, bits, bridlework and rider equipment. Its ranges are designed for everyday yard use, schooling and competition, with an emphasis on practical, sensibly priced kit.