A Softer Touch for the Sensitive Mouth

If you’ve ever dealt with a horse that’s "busy" in the mouth or backs off from the cold feel of traditional steel, the Shires Equikind Flexible Straight Hunter Dee is a game-changer. We know that a relaxed horse is a responsive horse, and this bit is designed to build confidence from the first time you bridge your reins.

Combining the stability of a classic Hunter Dee with the gentle feel of a flexible mullen mouth, this bit offers a steady, predictable contact. It’s perfect for the show ring or the training pen, ensuring your horse stays focused on your cues rather than the hardware in their mouth.

Why You’ll Love the Shires Equikind Hunter Dee

• Encourages Bit Acceptance. The Equikind polymer is infused with a subtle apple scent and stays warm to the touch, making it much more palatable for sensitive or young horses than cold stainless steel.
• Gentle, Even Pressure. The flexible mullen mouth (straight bar) distributes pressure evenly across the tongue and bars, avoiding the "nutcracker" pinch of a jointed bit.
• Superior Lateral Control. The fixed "D" shape of the rings provides a steady wall against the horse's face, assisting with steering and preventing the bit from sliding through the mouth during turns.
• Show-Ring Ready. The high-quality stainless steel Dee rings provide a traditional, clean look that is perfectly suited for Hunter and Equitation disciplines.
• Durable and Safe. Built for the long haul, the Equikind material is tough enough for daily use while remaining soft enough to protect the delicate tissues of the mouth.

Best For

The Hunter or Equitation rider looking for a mild, stable bit that encourages a soft, quiet mouth in sensitive or green horses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I measure for the Shires Equikind Hunter Dee?

Shires measures this bit from the inner edge of the rings. To ensure the perfect fit, measure your horse's mouth or your current bit from the point where the mouthpiece meets the ring. We recommend leaving approximately 1/4 inch (5mm) of space on either side of the lips to prevent pinching while maintaining stability.

Q: Is the apple flavoring safe for my horse?

Absolutely. The mild apple scent in the Shires Equikind Flexible Straight Hunter Dee is designed to encourage salivation and acceptance, helping "fussy" horses settle into the contact more easily without the use of harsh chemicals.

Item Number/SKU: 887144.5