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Dressage Bridles Reviews
Customer Reviews for Micklem Competition Bridle
Micklem Competition Bridle
Average Customer Rating:
(91 Reviews) 88
Rating breakdown 91 reviews
5 Stars
49
4 Stars
37
3 Stars
3
2 Stars
1
1 Star
1
88 of 91(97%)of customers would recommend this product to a friend.
Customer Reviews for Micklem Competition Bridle
Review 1 for Micklem Competition Bridle
Overall Rating:
Has Helped Fussy Mare
May 8, 2013
ByPortia
fromHouston, Texas
I have used this product for:1-3 months
Expertise:Intermediate
Riding Style:Hunter/Jumper
Competitor:Rated
Quality:
4
of
5
Value:
4
of
5
Durability:
4
of
5
Share this Review:
"My 5 year old BWP mare was always fussy and rarely relaxed into the bridle. This bridle made a difference. She's visibly more comfortable and willing to relax, take contact, and stretch out. On the sizing, she's 16.2 or .3 and wears regular horse size in other bridles; the regular horse size in the Micklem fit her fine. I can't comment on the durability yet, as we've only had it for a couple of months, but it appears to be of good quality."
Review 2 for Micklem Competition Bridle
Overall Rating:
glad to have it
May 8, 2013
ByQuirky
fromBerlin, MA
Expertise:Intermediate
Quality:
4
of
5
Value:
4
of
5
Fit
Runs small
Runs large
Just right
Share this Review:
"This bridle seems to fit very well. I tried it with the clips, the bit is a rubber D ring snaffle, and it was stiff in his mouth, but without the clips he goes well in it and it is not rubbing the same places on his cheeks that his former bridle was rubbing."
Review 3 for Micklem Competition Bridle
Overall Rating:
Recommend, despite fit issues
May 7, 2013
ByEasyKeeper
fromBay Area, California
I have used this product for:less than a month
Expertise:Intermediate
Riding Style:Eventing
Competitor:Local/Open
Quality:
4
of
5
Value:
4
of
5
Durability:
4
of
5
Fit
Runs small
Runs large
Runs small
Share this Review:
"My horse is moderately fussy with his head, and overall, his skin is more sensitive and “itchy” than most horses. Got this bridle to help him be more comfortable and he does go better in it. It’s not a silver bullet, but I did notice a difference right away during my first ride. I waited a week to write the review, and he continues to be better than when he was in a normal bridle. For the positive effect it has had, I do recommend it.
The fit was -- as others have pointed out -- disappointing. The length of the bridle is disproportionate to all the other pieces. My horse is a 16.3 HH Warmblood with a normal-proportioned head for light warmblood. The "horse" size worked best for him. The cheek pieces are almost as small as they will go, but the throat and chin straps are on the very last (very largest) hole. Similarly, the browband is on the small side, but it is so plain I had planned on replacing it anyway.
The bridle is better looking that I had expected--I figured I'd have to endure something ugly for his comfort, but it looks nice, though it is on the plain side. The stitching and workmanship quality is excellent. The leather quality or conditioning is good, except because it is so stiff, certain pieces crack slightly when buckled the first time.
The reins are good quality but very thick--I believe they are leather for the full length and then covered in rubber. Too bulky for my taste, but the quality is good.
Overall I recommend it, due to the positive effect on my horse. But the fit is frustrating for the price, and the reins, while good quality, I won't be using long because they are too bulky."
Review 4 for Micklem Competition Bridle
Overall Rating:
Good Bridle
May 6, 2013
ByBarncat77
fromMissouri
I have used this product for:less than a month
Expertise:Intermediate
Riding Style:Eventing
Quality:
4
of
5
Value:
4
of
5
Durability:
4
of
5
Fit
Runs small
Runs large
Runs small
Share this Review:
"This is a very nice bridle, a little stiff out of the box but overall nice after a bit of oiling. This first one I ordered was defective, the keeper literally snapped off when I put the leather strap through it. But the next one I ordered is perfect, I must say it does run small, I listened to the other reviewers and sized up. My horse is normally a cob, he has a very petite face, and the horse size fits him perfect except for the cheek piece, it is super tight so I had to punch two more holes in it. He is definitely less fussy in this bridle than in my normal one, I've only had it a few days so the verdict is out. Overall I like this bridle."
Review 5 for Micklem Competition Bridle
Overall Rating:
I love this bridle
May 1, 2013
Byjumpinhigh
fromCa
I have used this product for:1-3 months
Expertise:Intermediate
Riding Style:Hunter/Jumper
Competitor:Local/Open
Quality:
5
of
5
Value:
5
of
5
Durability:
5
of
5
Fit
Runs small
Runs large
Runs small
Share this Review:
"I have Always been using the Cheap Harwich fancy raise bridle. It's an amazing bridle for the price, but I wanted something really fancy. So I spent double the money on this. There's no problems getting it over my horses head, he seems to like it. It's very cushioned so I would assume its comfortable. And it looks fantastic! it just sucked putting it together. This bridle is worth all the money."
Review 6 for Micklem Competition Bridle
Overall Rating:
Skeptic won over.
April 30, 2013
ByCa Eventer
fromNorthern California
I have used this product for:less than a month
Expertise:Intermediate
Riding Style:Eventing
Competitor:Rated
Quality:
5
of
5
Value:
5
of
5
Durability:
5
of
5
Share this Review:
"I was very skeptical about this bridle but thought it was worth a try on my sensitive and fussy horse. I can say I am now a believer- every ride gets better and more relaxed. Resistance in the bridle is significantly reduced and my horse overall seems less argumentative. The non-traditional style is growing on me slowly. Only complaint is that the cob/small horse size comes with pony reins- easy enough to switch out but annoying. Leather quality is similar to that of Nunn Finer- not fancy but quality."
Review 7 for Micklem Competition Bridle
Overall Rating:
Changed my horse
April 25, 2013
Byridingteacher
fromTx
I have used this product for:1-3 months
Expertise:Trainer
Riding Style:Dressage
Competitor:Rated
Quality:
4
of
5
Value:
5
of
5
Durability:
5
of
5
Fit
Runs small
Runs large
Runs small
Share this Review:
"The fit is the only real difficulty. I bought a Large horse for my 17-1 warmblood with an average head. The jaw strap is tight on the first hole. The head stall fits ok, there is a lot of room to make it bigger and it could be taken up 4 holes on each side.
The bridle is a bit stiff out of the box, really had trouble getting the flash undone for the first few rides, not bad after that.
My horse loves it. He is more willing to keep the contact and even gives me more contact with this bridle. Yes, it is worth a try!!"
The bridle is a bit stiff out of the box, really had trouble getting the flash undone for the first few rides, not bad after that.
My horse loves it. He is more willing to keep the contact and even gives me more contact with this bridle. Yes, it is worth a try!!"
Review 8 for Micklem Competition Bridle
Overall Rating:
Nice Bridle
April 22, 2013
ByKMTA
fromFL
I have used this product for:1-3 months
Expertise:Intermediate
Riding Style:Eventing
Competitor:Local/Open
Quality:
4
of
5
Value:
3
of
5
Durability:
4
of
5
Share this Review:
"I purchased this bridle on the recommendation from a few friends. They love their Micklems. I have a 16 hand TB and the horse size fit very nicely. The leather is very stiff and I hope it softens with correct care. Otherwise, my horse seems to like it. I had some trial and error with the fit of the bit. He does not like the bit keepers so I have removed those and seems much happier."
Review 9 for Micklem Competition Bridle
Overall Rating:
Good Fit
April 16, 2013
ByPlayhard
fromCT
I have used this product for:1-3 months
Expertise:Novice
Riding Style:Eventing
Competitor:Rated
Quality:
3
of
5
Value:
3
of
5
Durability:
3
of
5
Share this Review:
"The bridle fit my OTTB well. The leather is a decent quality and looks nice, my only concern is the bit straps cracked at the first hole, the first time I attached them. I actually need to use the first hole to fit my horse so I think they will wear out quick. They do include 2 sets though and I hope I can order more. My horse seems happy with the fit, no big dramatic change though."
Review 10 for Micklem Competition Bridle
Overall Rating:
Love this bridle
April 16, 2013
BySilverFilly
fromKentucky
I have used this product for:less than a month
Expertise:Novice
Riding Style:Dressage
Quality:
5
of
5
Value:
5
of
5
Durability:
5
of
5
Share this Review:
"This bridle fit my warmblood gelding perfectly. No problems with the size of the straps under the jaw. He loves this bridle! He is relaxing, seeking the bit, and rounding up. He is focusing on his work instead of fussing. I am buying one for my other horse as well."
Review 11 for Micklem Competition Bridle
Overall Rating:
So far, so good!
April 15, 2013
ByDanzig
fromNJ
I have used this product for:less than a month
Expertise:Intermediate
Riding Style:All Around
Quality:
4
of
5
Value:
4
of
5
Durability:
5
of
5
Share this Review:
"My Thoroughbred tends to be very chompy and mouthy on his bit, and this bridle has reduced it by 50% at least in just a few rides- I think he has sensitive bars, and this removes a lot of pressure from the bars of the mouth, especially with the bit clips. He is 16.1h with a fine head, and the jaw strap on the "horse size" fits him on the last (biggest) hole. It looks like it will stretch with use. Browband is perfect, as are the cheekpieces. The leather is durable and takes oil well. It's not buttery soft, but it's good quality. If he continues to ride this well in it, then it's money very well spent and I recommend anyone with a mouthy horse giving it a try!"
Review 12 for Micklem Competition Bridle
Overall Rating:
April 12, 2013
ByAtrianna
fromMD
I have used this product for:less than a month
Expertise:Intermediate
Riding Style:Dressage
Competitor:Local/Open
Quality:
4
of
5
Value:
4
of
5
Durability:
4
of
5
Share this Review:
"I bought this bridle for my horse in an effort to make him as comfortable as possible. I was interested in it because of how it is shaped, not because my horse has issues with his bridle or contact. He was previously ridden in a drop noseband and I have not seen a big difference in him with this bridle, though I didn't really expect to. However, a friend tried it on her two TB's and saw a huge change in one immediately, and a small change in her other horse. I don't have any issues with the quality of the bridle and the Full Horse size fits my 15.3 Oldenburg."
Review 13 for Micklem Competition Bridle
Overall Rating:
Good choice for my gelding
April 8, 2013
Bydundee
fromfrederick maryland
I have used this product for:1-3 months
Expertise:Intermediate
Riding Style:Dressage
Competitor:Local/Open
Quality:
5
of
5
Value:
5
of
5
Share this Review:
"I've used the bridle for about 3 weeks. My very fussy gelding almost immediately was steadier in the bridle with much less head shaking and considerably less inverting. Amazingly enough, that was even true on a windy day -- usually a recipe for the little understood 'giraffe horse'! I did have to take the clips off the bit. He hated those. Once that was done, he loved the bridle and so do my trainer and I."
Review 14 for Micklem Competition Bridle
Overall Rating:
Very happy with Micklem Bridle
April 4, 2013
Bycomoxs
fromMassachusetts
I have used this product for:less than a month
Expertise:Intermediate
Riding Style:Eventing
Competitor:Rated
Quality:
5
of
5
Value:
4
of
5
Durability:
5
of
5
Share this Review:
"I am very happy with my Micklem bridle. I have a Draft cross mare with a big head and the XL size fits her perfectly. The leather is of decent quality. I like the simplicity of the bridle when putting it on and cleaning it. I also feel that the comfort of this bridle for the horse keeps her steadier in the bridle. And as usual, Smartpak is great to deal with."
Review 15 for Micklem Competition Bridle
Overall Rating:
Didn't fit well, and no "magic"!
March 27, 2013
Bycallieskeeper
fromCentral Ohio
I have used this product for:less than a month
Expertise:Intermediate
Riding Style:Eventing
Competitor:Local/Open
Quality:
3
of
5
Value:
3
of
5
Fit
Runs small
Runs large
Runs small
Share this Review:
"I had heard that this bridle could work magic on a horse who is reluctant to give to the bridle. However, since the bridle did not fit my mare (OTTB with a long, narrow face) as well as it should have (although it ALMOST fit her!), perhaps her pressure points weren't precisely attuned to the bridle. Maybe it could be a bit more adjustable? Anyway, she seemed a little resistant to it, actually. A great idea, and I'm sure it works for some, but just not my girl."
Review 16 for Micklem Competition Bridle
Overall Rating:
Yay!
March 26, 2013
ByLucero
fromRedmond, WA
I have used this product for:less than a month
Expertise:Expert
Riding Style:Eventing
Competitor:Rated
Quality:
5
of
5
Value:
4
of
5
Durability:
4
of
5
Fit
Runs small
Runs large
Runs small
Share this Review:
"Loving this bridle! I've been using it for a couple weeks now and my horse has been going so much better. She's a lot steadier in my hand, doesn't pull as much, and also gets wayyy less behind the bit. I have a very strong TB mare, and I've been riding her in a gag bit for the last year, even for flatwork. With the Micklem, I've been riding her on the middle or snaffle ring of an elevator. Today, I rode her in a snaffle for the first time in over a year! She was excellent. Thinking back to how she was a year ago in that bit, I can't believe she's the same horse. :) Definitely would recommend this bridle."
Review 17 for Micklem Competition Bridle
Overall Rating:
Runs small
March 23, 2013
ByFloridaGal
fromPunta Gorda, FL
I have used this product for:less than a month
Expertise:Beginner
Riding Style:Dressage
Competitor:Non-competitor
Quality:
5
of
5
Value:
4
of
5
Fit
Runs small
Runs large
Runs small
Share this Review:
"I ordered the standard horse size it was too small for my horse the length of the cheek and chin pieces were too short. Exchanged it for the largest size they make. This one fits well but if you have a very large horse probably won't work.
My horse is a 16.3 hand Percheron/TB built like a pony. The quality (look and feel) of the leather seems quite good, Bev seemed to accept it without any trouble will have to wait and see if he is happier with it or not. It did make his face more noticeable, i.e. less bridle covering him. SmartPak had no problem exchanging for the larger size, very satisfied."
My horse is a 16.3 hand Percheron/TB built like a pony. The quality (look and feel) of the leather seems quite good, Bev seemed to accept it without any trouble will have to wait and see if he is happier with it or not. It did make his face more noticeable, i.e. less bridle covering him. SmartPak had no problem exchanging for the larger size, very satisfied."
Review 18 for Micklem Competition Bridle
Overall Rating:
Great bridle
March 11, 2013
By3DayRydr
fromFlorida
I have used this product for:less than a month
Expertise:Expert
Riding Style:Eventing
Competitor:Rated
Quality:
5
of
5
Value:
5
of
5
Durability:
5
of
5
Share this Review:
"Very comfortable and sympathetic on the horse's face. I am using this on a young, delicate filly and she loves it. I highly recommend this bridle. The leather is good quality and the price is excellent - especially when you consider rubber reins are included."
Review 19 for Micklem Competition Bridle
Overall Rating:
Very happy with my purchase
February 25, 2013
ByMyEquineObsession
I have used this product for:less than a month
Expertise:Intermediate
Riding Style:Dressage
Competitor:Local/Open
Quality:
4
of
5
Value:
5
of
5
Share this Review:
"Delivers what it promises. My mare is notably more comfortable in this bridle."
Review 20 for Micklem Competition Bridle
Overall Rating:
Makes opinionated mare happy!
February 18, 2013
ByCentaura
fromSan Francisco Bay Area
I have used this product for:1-3 months
Expertise:Intermediate
Riding Style:Dressage
Competitor:Local/Open
Quality:
4
of
5
Value:
5
of
5
Fit
Runs small
Runs large
Just right
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
Share this Review:
"I was very skeptical about those super horse friendly designs, a lot of them make theoretical sense but don't live up to it in practice (I've wasted money on some of those...) Not so with this one!
I have a very expressive mare and from day one she has just objected to a flash bridle (well padded, well adjusted, never cranked tight). I've tried padding it up with fleece everywhere, but still not much difference in my mare's opinion about it. I knew I needed a completely different design and short of trying a Hackamore, I gave this a shot. And voila: Immediate *and* sustained difference. She is softer in her whole body, not just her jaw, and much quieter in her frame, no longer turns away from me for bridling (that alone is worth the $$$).
I did try the extra bit clips at one point just to see if that would make an even bigger difference, but the mare did not like the feel of them.
As for quality and fit. The standard horse size fits my 16 h Holsteiner well for the most part, except for the jaw strap, I had to add one hole, but that means hardly enough strap left to get it into the keeper.
The padded parts of the bridle are very (!) nice. The cheek straps have a lot of room left and because both keepers are fixed to the strap, it was *quite* hard to stuff the straps in there. The top layer of the leather wrinkled in the process. Not a huge deal, but this is an almost $200 bridle... Same difficulty getting the flash-type strap into both keepers, I've given up and just use one.
I did try the extra bit clips at one point just to see if that would make an even bigger difference, but the mare did not like the feel of them.
As for quality and fit. The standard horse size fits my 16 h Holsteiner well for the most part, except for the jaw strap, I had to add one hole, but that means hardly enough strap left to get it into the keeper.
The padded parts of the bridle are very (!) nice. The cheek straps have a lot of room left and because both keepers are fixed to the strap, it was *quite* hard to stuff the straps in there. The top layer of the leather wrinkled in the process. Not a huge deal, but this is an almost $200 bridle... Same difficulty getting the flash-type strap into both keepers, I've given up and just use one.
However, none of that detracts from the *comfort* of the bridle for the horse and as always, Her Highness' happiness and wellbeing is my utmost desire. :)"