{"product_id":"shires-equikind-softie-jointed-flat-eggbutt","title":"Shires Equikind Softie Jointed Flat Eggbutt Bit - Gentle Synthetic Mouthpiece","description":"\u003ch2\u003eSoft Contact for a Happy Horse\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf your horse is backing off the contact or fussing with a cold, traditional bit, the Shires Equikind Softie Jointed Flat Eggbutt is the gentle solution your bridle rack is missing. Designed to encourage a steady, confident stretch into the hand, this bit replaces the harsh 'clink' of metal with a soft-touch synthetic that horses genuinely enjoy. We’ve seen it work wonders for those 'busy' mouths that just can't seem to settle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe secret lies in the EquiKind coating—a high-tech material that warms almost instantly to your horse's body temperature. Combined with a pleasant apple flavor, it transforms the bit from a piece of equipment into a welcome invitation to work. From our barn to yours, this is a bit built for the long haul, ensuring every schooling session starts on a positive note.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eKey Benefits\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEncourages Acceptance:\u003c\/strong\u003e The apple-flavored EquiKind coating warms quickly to body temperature, making it ideal for horses that are bit-shy or sensitive to cold stainless steel.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEliminates Pinched Corners:\u003c\/strong\u003e The fixed flat eggbutt rings ensure the bit stays stable in the mouth and won't slide through, protecting delicate corners from painful pinching.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGentle Nutcracker Action:\u003c\/strong\u003e The 18mm mouthpiece provides a thicker, more cushioned surface area that softens the traditional single-joint pressure on the tongue and bars.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eQuiet Lateral Stability:\u003c\/strong\u003e The flat profile of the rings offers a sleek, professional look while providing the steady contact needed for young horses learning to follow the rein.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eBest For\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe rider with a young or sensitive horse\u003c\/strong\u003e looking for \u003cstrong\u003ea gentle, stable introduction to contact that encourages confidence and relaxation.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003ch4\u003eQ: How do I measure for the Shires Equikind Softie?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eShires bits are measured from the inside of one ring hole to the inside of the other. For the Shires Equikind Softie Jointed Flat Eggbutt, you want a snug fit with approximately 5mm (1\/4 inch) of clearance on either side for optimal stability.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eQ: Is this bit suitable for horses with a low palate?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eBecause the 18mm mouthpiece is thicker than standard metal bits, it takes up more room in the mouth. If your horse has a particularly fleshy tongue or a low palate, you may want to check if they have enough room for this cushioned profile.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eQ: Will the apple flavor last?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes, the apple scent and flavor are infused directly into the EquiKind synthetic material, helping to encourage salivation and bit acceptance over the long term.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eItem Number\/SKU:\u003c\/strong\u003e 63654.5\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Shires","offers":[{"title":"4.5","offer_id":48008802697437,"sku":"63654.5","price":64.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"5","offer_id":48008802730205,"sku":"63655","price":64.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"5.5","offer_id":48008802762973,"sku":"63655.5","price":64.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"6","offer_id":48008802795741,"sku":"63656","price":64.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0619\/8748\/7965\/files\/shires-equikind-softie-jointed-flat-eggbutt-bit-gentle-synthetic-mouthpiece-63654-5.webp?v=1780953262","url":"https:\/\/hoovesandpaws.com\/products\/shires-equikind-softie-jointed-flat-eggbutt","provider":"Hooves and Paws","version":"1.0","type":"link"}