{"product_id":"shires-hunter-dee-rubber-mullen-mouth-s-steel","title":"Shires Hunter Dee Bit with Rubber Mullen Mouth - Stainless Steel English Horse Bit","description":"\u003ch2\u003eGentle Contact for the Sensitive Hunter\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFinding a bit that encourages a soft, steady contact can be a challenge, especially for horses that \"back off\" from cold metal or react to the pinching of a jointed mouthpiece. The Shires Hunter Dee Rubber Mullen Mouth S\/Steel is designed to solve that problem, offering a warmer, more inviting feel that helps your horse relax into the bridle and focus on the job at hand.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis bit combines the classic, traditional look required for the hunter ring with a design focused on comfort. The unjointed mullen bar eliminates the \"nutcracker\" action, instead distributing pressure evenly across the tongue and bars. From the training pen to the show ring, it’s a reliable choice for building confidence and clear communication from our barn to yours.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eKey Benefits\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEncourages Soft Contact:\u003c\/strong\u003e The rubber-covered mouthpiece provides a warmer, gentler feel than standard stainless steel, making it ideal for sensitive horses or those hesitant to take the bit.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEliminates Pinching:\u003c\/strong\u003e The solid mullen bar design prevents the \"nutcracker\" effect on the bars of the mouth, distributing pressure evenly for a more comfortable ride.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEnhanced Lateral Guidance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Fixed stainless steel \"D\" rings provide excellent lateral stability, preventing the bit from sliding through the mouth and offering clear steering cues.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eShow-Ring Ready Aesthetic:\u003c\/strong\u003e The classic Hunter Dee design is the gold standard for the hunter ring, ensuring you look the part while prioritizing your horse's comfort.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDurable and Low Maintenance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Built with high-quality stainless steel cheeks, this bit is designed to withstand daily barn use while remaining easy to clean.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003ch3\u003eBest For\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHunter riders and trainers of green horses\u003c\/strong\u003e looking for \u003cstrong\u003ea mild, stable bit that encourages steady contact and provides clear lateral cues without pinching.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003ch4\u003eQ: How should I size this bit compared to a loose ring?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor the Shires Hunter Dee Rubber Mullen Mouth S\/Steel, we recommend a \"flush fit.\" Because the D-rings need to sit snug against the horse's face to provide stability, many riders choose a size 1\/4\" smaller than their standard loose ring size.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch4\u003eQ: Is the rubber mouthpiece too thick for some horses?\u003c\/h4\u003e\u003cp\u003eRubber mouthpieces do add significant bulk compared to thin metal bits. We recommend ensuring your horse has enough \"room\" in their mouth—specifically a higher palate—to accommodate the thicker diameter without discomfort.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eItem Number\/SKU:\u003c\/strong\u003e 800185\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Shires","offers":[{"title":"5","offer_id":48021555773661,"sku":"800185","price":49.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"5.5","offer_id":48021555806429,"sku":"800185.5","price":49.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0619\/8748\/7965\/files\/shires-hunter-dee-bit-with-rubber-mullen-mouth-stainless-steel-english-horse-bit-800185.webp?v=1781192679","url":"https:\/\/hoovesandpaws.com\/products\/shires-hunter-dee-rubber-mullen-mouth-s-steel","provider":"Hooves and Paws","version":"1.0","type":"link"}