The Micklem in Action

By its second use, I knew the bridle was a keeper. By the third ride, I was beginning to be a believer. I wish I could explain how these few pieces of leather strapping can change the way your horse moves while under saddle, but I can't. Maybe I've simply become a better rider at the right time for him. Either way, I know Sydney likes it and is moving better in it. 

Now remember, I've only ridden him in it for about a month. In six months, the novelty might wear off, and we might be back to playing the same game of how hard can you pull? But even in just a few dozen rides, Sydney feels different. He hasn't turned into an upper level horse or anything, but he is definitely softer through his neck and poll. 

When I have to really use my hands, like in a hard halt, or exaggerating the bend, or slowing down from a big gallop, I feel as though I am touching his whole face and not just his mouth. The reins feel as though they are connected like how an octopus grabs onto it's prey - touching everywhere.

Instead of riding with two reins, I feel as though I have eight!

I read one reviewer's comment, and at first, I thought it sounded like a harsh use of the bridle, but now I get it. She said the bridle gave her more 'leverage.' That is a really good way to put it. 

Another improvement that I've noticed over the past few weeks is that Sydney no longer flips his nose when he's anxious. With his other bridle, he would flip his nose like there was a fly bothering him. I am not sure if his previous bridle's crank noseband caused him to be itchy or if it put pressure somewhere, but he is no longer doing that little head flip. That seems like a good thing.

So for now, the bridle seems to be working as advertised. Even so, I like it for more reasons than that. It looks really nice on him and fits him super well. I am also really happy with how easy it is to put on. It has two simple straps: one under the jaw and one at the bit.

The leather has also relaxed nicely. We're now on the third hole at the jaw strap, and I was also able to move to the third hole on the flash. I like this bridle so much that I just ordered one for Speedy. 

More to come ...

I hope Speedy likes it as much as Sydney and I do!