New FEI Noseband Gauge – What It Means for Riders and Horses

About this episode

Dr David Marlin and Emma Busk discuss the implications of the new FEI noseband gauge for riders and horses, including its impact on welfare and fitting practices.

In this highly relevant Animalweb podcast, Dr David Marlin is joined by Animalweb's independent bit and bridle fitting expert Emma Busk to unpack the introduction of the new FEI noseband gauge, now in use on the international competition circuit. Together, they explore what the measure means in practice, why it has been introduced, and how riders, stewards, and horse owners are reacting to it. Emma, who has worked with both the FEI and ISES gauges, shares her practical experience using the new tool and highlights some of the challenges around consistency, fit, and application across different types of nosebands and horse sizes. She and David discuss whether the gauge goes far enough in protecting horse welfare, and what more could be done. Beyond the gauge, they delve into the broader topic of bit and bridle fitting, exploring why it matters, its impact on performance, and how to assess fit both in the stable and under saddle. Emma emphasises that every horse is different and that correct fit can’t be judged by looks alone. They touch on the importance of collaboration between vets, dentists, physios and fitters, and how past trauma or pain can affect a horse’s response to tack…

People in this episode

Host: Dr David Marlin

Guest: Emma Busk

Topics covered

• noseband gauge
• horse welfare
• bit and bridle fitting
• competition pressures
• tack assessment

Keywords

• noseband
• gauge
• horse welfare
• bit fitting
• bridle fitting
• competition
• tack assessment

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: FEI, ISES, Animalweb

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