Total agreement with everything said so far. Something you may want to check thoroughly is the equipment you're already using. Check your bits you already have for any dings in the mouthpiece, sharp edges, worn rings...anything that may be getting into your horse's mouth or causing it to pinch or poke. If you have chrome plated bits, pitch them in the trash and get solid stainless. Chrome plating starts to peel. Also check your saddle pad and saddle skirts for anything that may be causing a pressure point. That could also cause your horse to toss his head up when you transfer weight in your stirrups for a jump. Something has changed to cause the reaction you're getting. The list goes on...

Properly bitting a horse is a big subject, but the bit does have a lot to do with how the horse responds to the riders hands. Snaffles are generally used to train a horse to move on to curbs. Even Clinton Anderson advocates moving from one to the other in order to keep the horse doing what you want. Curb bits apply presasure to the horses poll, mouth and jaw and helps you tell him what you want him to do without heavy hands. Your horse may not need a correction bit but may need to go back to a snaffle for retraining. Remember also, your style has a lot to do with this also. The types of reins and how you carry them in your hand or hands has to be considered. You can put all I know about jumpers in a thimble but some of this is universal. Contact one of the larger name bit companies and a trainer as well because you will find a lot of variation of opinions on this subject.

I would have to agree with nichole...it is not the big but the training and relationship you have with your horse. When I worked in Stateline Tack I learned about several different bits and their purposes. Then I found Clinton Anderson and his training methods and he starts out with everything in smooth snaffle bit. You teach the horse lateral flextion and get them soft and supple...it will solve a lot of the problems. I would look him up as well as Parelli, and make the choice. I personally love Clintons method, very easy to understand and tons of fun to watch, never boring.

My advice is to consult a local trainer whom you respect. They typically have their tried and true favorites, and can take the time to explain why and the ins and outs of each bit, and how each one works.

I can relate...I use to think I needed another bit for my horse until I started doing Parelli Natural Horsemanship with my horse. I truly believe it all boils down to your relationship and training of your horse. Spend more time training and stick to the basic 0-ring or D-ring snaffle bit. A harsher bit is not the answer. I've now got more control in any situation than folks with all the fancy bits and gear.

The amount of bits on the market is overwhelming!! is there a book or source where one can read and learn which one would be appropiate for our horse? I will appreciate any suggestions, I need to find the right bit for my mare. She is a Thoroughbred and have been showing her in jumping events. She never used to lift her head up before a jump, and now she is really getting into this habit. She goes over the jump really well, but I feel very unsure on her now. I already checked her teeth, and they are fine. I think we need to change her bit, but don´t even know where to start looking for the right one or a corrective one. Any help will be highly appreciated.