Shires Equikind French Link Hunter Dee Bit - Stainless Steel - Multiple Sizes

Soft Contact Meets Classic Style: The Shires Equikind French Link Hunter Dee

Finding the right balance between a steady contact and a soft feel can be a challenge, especially for horses that back off from cold, hard stainless steel. The Shires Equikind French Link Hunter Dee offers a gentler alternative, combining the classic stability of a Dee-ring with a high-tech polymer that’s warm to the touch and incredibly flexible. It’s an ideal solution for the horse that is fussy in the mouth or tends to stay "behind the bit" when asked for a connection.

From our barn to yours, we know that a relaxed horse is a responsive horse. This bit is designed to encourage that crucial chew and acceptance, making it a favorite for starting young horses or maintaining a quiet, steady head carriage in the show ring. The Equikind material is lighter and more inviting than traditional vulcanized rubber, ensuring your horse stays comfortable through every transition.

Key Benefits for Horse & Rider

• Eliminates the "Nutcracker" Effect: The double-jointed French link central plate applies even pressure across the tongue and bars, preventing the mouthpiece from pinching or hitting the sensitive roof of the horse's mouth.
• Encourages Bit Acceptance: Infused with a subtle apple scent and flavor, the Equikind polymer stimulates salivation and relaxation, helping green or distracted horses focus on your cues.
• Superior Thermal Comfort: Unlike traditional metal bits that can be bracingly cold in the winter, this high-tech synthetic material stays warm, making it much more pleasant for sensitive horses to take.
• Classic Hunter Ring Aesthetic: The stainless steel Dee-rings provide a traditional, polished look suitable for Hunter and Equitation divisions while offering lateral guiding support for better turning.
• Fixed-Cheek Stability: The Hunter Dee design prevents the bit from sliding through the mouth and eliminates the risk of pinching at the corners of the lips, providing a consistent feel for the rider.

Best For

Hunter and Equitation riders looking for a classic show-ring appearance combined with a mild, apple-flavored mouthpiece to soothe sensitive or young horses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How should I size the Shires Equikind Hunter Dee compared to a loose ring?

Because the Hunter Dee is a fixed-cheek bit, it should sit flush against the horse's lips. Many riders find that choosing a size 0.25" smaller than their standard loose-ring size provides the best fit and ensures the lateral guiding effect of the Dee-rings works as intended.

Q: Is this bit legal for all competitive disciplines?

The Shires Equikind French Link Hunter Dee is a staple in the Hunter and Jumper rings. However, if you are competing in Dressage, we recommend checking the current USEF or FEI rulebook, as regulations regarding synthetic materials and specific French link shapes can vary by level and year.

Q: Is the Equikind material durable for daily schooling?

Yes, Equikind is designed for the long haul. It is more flexible and less prone to cracking than old-fashioned rubber bits, though as with any synthetic bit, you should regularly check for any sharp edges if your horse is a heavy "chewer."

Item Number/SKU: 800555