{"product_id":"shires-equikind-beval-bit-french-link-s-steel","title":"Shires Equikind+ Beval Bit with French Link - Stainless Steel - Multiple Sizes","description":"\u003ch2\u003eGentle Control for the Sensitive, Forward Horse\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFinding that perfect balance between a soft feel and effective control can be a challenge, especially for horses that are sensitive to cold metal or have a lower palate. The Shires Equikind+ Beval Bit French Link S\/Steel is designed to bridge that gap, offering a warm, apple-flavored synthetic coating that encourages acceptance while providing the subtle leverage needed for better rebalancing.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBuilt for the long haul, this bit combines the softness of the Equikind+ material with the precision of a French link center. By eliminating the harsh \"nutcracker\" action of a single joint, it allows for clear communication and a rounder outline without causing discomfort to the roof of your horse's mouth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eKey Benefits for Horse and Rider\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEliminates Palate Pressure:\u003c\/strong\u003e The double-jointed French link design lies flat across the tongue, ensuring even pressure and preventing the bit from hitting the sensitive roof of the mouth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEncourages Bit Acceptance:\u003c\/strong\u003e The high-quality, apple-flavored Equikind+ coating is warmer and softer than traditional stainless steel, making it an ideal choice for horses that are \"bit shy\" or have sensitive mouths.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdjustable Leverage Options:\u003c\/strong\u003e The Beval (Wilkie) cheek features internal loops that allow you to switch between a standard snaffle action and a mild poll pressure setting for extra control during jumping or hacking.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSlim, Low-Profile Fit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Unlike bulky traditional rubber bits, this version is intentionally thinner, providing a comfortable fit for horses with large tongues or limited room in their mouths.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDurable Stainless Steel Core:\u003c\/strong\u003e While the coating is soft, the internal stainless steel structure ensures the bit remains strong and dependable for daily training and competition.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eBest For\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShow jumpers, eventers, and pony riders\u003c\/strong\u003e looking for \u003cstrong\u003ea mild \"step-up\" bit that provides better rebalancing and head carriage without the severity of a gag or curb.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003ch4\u003eQ: Is the Shires Equikind+ Beval Bit legal for dressage?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhile rules vary by organization, the Shires Equikind+ Beval Bit is generally not dressage legal in most federations due to the leverage provided by the Beval cheek design. It is most commonly used in the jumping, eventing, and pony show rings.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eQ: How do I choose the right size for my horse?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eBecause the Beval is a loose-ring style bit, we recommend sizing up by approximately 1\/4 inch (5mm) compared to a fixed-cheek bit like an Eggbutt. This extra clearance ensures the rings do not pinch the horse's lips during use.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eQ: Is the apple flavor permanent?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe apple flavoring is infused into the Equikind+ synthetic material to help encourage salivation and bit acceptance, though the intensity may naturally fade over time with heavy use and cleaning.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eItem Number\/SKU:\u003c\/strong\u003e 800285\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Shires","offers":[{"title":"5","offer_id":48012241731805,"sku":"800285","price":64.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"5.5","offer_id":48012241764573,"sku":"800285.5","price":64.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0619\/8748\/7965\/files\/shires-equikind-beval-bit-with-french-link-stainless-steel-multiple-sizes-800285.webp?v=1781041144","url":"https:\/\/hoovesandpaws.com\/products\/shires-equikind-beval-bit-french-link-s-steel","provider":"Hooves and Paws","version":"1.0","type":"link"}