The bit is one of the most direct methods of communication between the horse and rider, allowing the signals delivered by the rider’s hands to travel directly to the sensitive mouth of the horse. Selecting a bit with the right fit and features to allow the best, most effective communication is important. Herm. Sprenger has a long history of researching and developing lines of bits in the best shapes and materials to suit whatever you and your horse need. We were lucky to get to speak recently with Brigitte Schulte, Global Sales Manager at Herm. Sprenger, about the history of their brand and how their bits are designed.
Dover:
We imagine a company such as Herm. Sprenger has a rich history. Could you share how the equine portion of the company has evolved?
Herm. Sprenger:
Herm. Sprenger, founded in 1872, started with the production of spurs. At that time in history, the spurs were an important part of a soldier’s equipment. His spurs also identified him with his regiment. Over the years stirrups and bits were added. Looking back at over a century of experience in manufacturing, an extensive market knowledge and collaboration with professionals from the fields of sports and medicine, research and design has propelled H.S. to world renowned quality, technology and advanced design.
Dover:
Herm. Sprenger bits are very innovative. Can you tell us about some of the benefits of the metals you use in your horse bits?
Herm. Sprenger:
Developed by Sprenger, SENSOGAN® and AURIGAN® are the only two metals in world history researched and developed to be put in a horse’s mouth. Their sensitive compositions allow horsemanship and animal welfare to be put to practice. The new metal
SENSOGAN is the result of additional development and consequently the improvement of our original material, AURIGAN. We have built on the success and positive features of AURIGAN, specifically the taste and salivation aspects to give an even more delicate and sophisticated connection to the horse. It is the distinctive composition of copper, manganese and zinc that makes SENSOGAN so special. This combination results in a smoother and more regulated process of oxidation. Tests show a very positive influence on the horse’s satisfaction, motivation and willingness to perform.
Dover:
What sort of research goes into developing HS bits?
Herm. Sprenger:
Sprenger works closely together with the Veterinary University of Hanover and the Deutsche Reitschule in Warendorf. Professionals from the fields of sports, medicine, design and research constitute the basis for our developments. As an example, Sprenger was the only company to request measurements from the Veterinary University of Hanover. When none were found, Herm. Sprenger partnered with them to obtain this information (horses’ heads were measured, x-rays taken, numerous measurements of the inside of the horses’ mouths). As a result of this we now know there is less space in the average horse’s mouth than previously thought. This research led to the realization that thinner bits (14, 16, 18 mm) are much more acceptable to the horse.
Dover:
How have your horse bits developed over time?
Herm. Sprenger:
Through our research, our concept of bit development has evolved into one of communication, not control.
Dover:
What are the differences between some of your various styles? Such as Dynamic RS vs. KK Ultra, vs. Turnado, etc?
Herm. Sprenger:
The difference between the KK-Ultra and the Dynamic RS is the curve of the Dynamic arms, which allows more contact on the entire tongue. In essence it speaks with a louder voice but without being severe.
The KK-Ultra and Dynamic RS are both double jointed bits. The Turnado is a simple jointed bit that does not produce a nutcracker effect.
Dover:
Do any of your sponsored riders prefer a specific Herm. Sprenger bit?
Herm. Sprenger:
All riders have their own personal preference. It all gets down to what individual rider and horse are most comfortable with. But all of them have KK-Ultra and Dynamic RS bits among their variety of bits.
Dover:
What is your most popular selling horse bit? Why do you think that is?
Herm. Sprenger:
The Dynamic RS and KK-Ultra are our best selling bits. This is due to the anatomically 
formed mouthpieces and the extraordinary metals. WH-Ultra bits are very popular too. The unique roller in the center section of these bits provides a gentle stimulation to the tongue which encourages the horse to chew and allows the relaxation of the jaw. When it comes to Weymouth bits, our HO and Bemelmans Weymouth Bits are our top sellers. They both have slanting mouthpieces for a fine distribution of pressure on the entire tongue, thus taking advantage of the exceptional sensitivity of the tongue and ensuring precise rein aids.
Let us know what your favorite Herm. Sprenger bits are in the comments!