FEI Dressage Legal Bits – Bombers Bits Approval Guide (Updated 2024)
FEI Dressage Bit Rules Explained (What Riders Need to Know)
Dressage competitors are increasingly required to navigate complex and sometimes inconsistently interpreted FEI rules regarding permitted bits and tack equipment.
The Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) sets the official rules governing what bits are allowed in international dressage competitions. However, interpretation of these rules can vary between officials, stewards, and events, creating uncertainty for riders preparing for competition.
This guide explains which Bombers Bits are FEI-approved, the bit categories and thickness requirements, and practical guidance for competition compliance.
Why FEI Bit Rules Can Be Confusing
The FEI classifies bits based on design and cheekpiece type, mouthpiece action, thickness requirements, and intended mechanical effect. However, complications arise because manufacturers design bits with specific biomechanical intent, FEI classifications may not fully reflect design nuance, and interpretation can vary between officials and events.
As a result, riders may experience inconsistencies between competitions regarding what is accepted or rejected.
Important Rider Guidance (Before Competing)
Due to occasional variation in interpretation at ground level, riders are strongly advised to confirm the bit’s legality with event stewards before competing, avoid assumptions based on previous competitions, check the latest FEI Tack and Equipment Rules, and ensure correct sizing and thickness compliance.
Check the official rules here: FEI Tack, Equipment & Dress
FEI Approved Bombers Bits – 2024 Update
The following Bombers Bits were confirmed as FEI-approved for dressage competition as of May 2024 (Bombers Bits Head Office, South Africa).
Approved Cheekpiece Types (Single)
Loose Ring, Eggbutt, Dee Ring, Full Cheek, Drop Cheek, Fulmer, Loose Ring Tube
Minimum thickness: 12mm for horses; 10mm for ponies
Approved Broken Mouthpieces
Buster Roller, Elliptical, Elliptical B, Elliptical Dressage, Elliptical Dressage Control, Elliptical Roller, Elliptical Ultra-Comfy, McHardy, McHardy Elliptical Dressage, Snaffle, Snaffle Ultra-Comfy
Approved Semi Mouthpieces
Barrel, Elliptical Lock Up, Elliptical Ultra-Comfy Lock Up, Ported Barrel, Snaffle Lock Up, Snaffle Ultra-Comfy Lock Up, Ported Pivot, Pivot Low Port
Approved Flexible Mouthpieces
Flexible Mullen, Moulded Mullen
Approved Solid Mouthpieces
Bomber Blue, Bomber Blue Mullen, Dressage Port, Happy Tongue, Happy Tongue Straight, Mullen
Double Bridle – Approved Bombers Bits
Bridoons
Eggbutt Bridoon, Loose Ring Bridoon — minimum thickness 10mm
Weymouth
Minimum thickness 12mm
Approved mouthpieces: Bomber Blue, Bomber Blue Mullen, Dressage Port, Happy Tongue, Happy Tongue Straight, Happy Tongue Straight Forward, Mullen
Approved broken mouthpieces: Buster Roller, Elliptical, Elliptical B, Elliptical Dressage, Elliptical Dressage Control, Elliptical Roller, Elliptical Ultra-Comfy, McHardy, McHardy Elliptical Dressage, Snaffle, Snaffle Ultra-Comfy
Approved semi: Barrel
Key Compliance Rules
Bit thickness must meet the minimum requirements
Cheekpieces must match approved types
Mouthpiece must match the approved category
No unapproved leverage or mechanical advantage
Equipment must match FEI-approved specifications for dressage
Final Summary
FEI dressage bit regulations can be complex, especially with evolving interpretations and detailed manufacturer designs. While Bombers Bits offers a wide range of FEI-approved options, riders must ensure correct bit classification, proper thickness compliance, and event-by-event verification.
By staying informed and proactive, riders can avoid competition-day issues and ensure compliance while maintaining optimal comfort and performance for their horse. Browse the full Bombers Bits collection to find your FEI-approved bit.