Shires Velcoti Dressage Bridle Review | The Rhiveiw
In this Rhiview, I take a closer look at the popular Shires Velociti Bridle range and Carr & Day & Martin tack cleaning products.
This review contains gifted items.
Woody modelling the Shires Velociti Dressage Bridle in Black from Naylors. Photo by Equipassion UK
The week I was due to bring Woody home, I found myself stood in a good friend’s tackroom. Having already ransacked his rug room, he was now fashioning together a simple bridle for me to get me started with my new horse. I was incredibly grateful.
Woody modelling the Shires Velociti Dressage Bridle in Black from Naylors. Photo by Equipassion UK
I would later go on to buy a secondhand bridle that fit Woody slightly better and was able to return the original bridle to my friend, but when Naylors reached out and asked if I wanted to try out a bridle from the Shires Velociti range, I jumped at the chance. I was particularly interested by Shires’ claim that the bridles combined traditional bridle shapes with ergonomic features.
Some of the Shires Velociti range on Naylors.com
Like many of us, I have witnessed the rise in popularity of ergonomic bridles amongst equestrians, which seems to be part of a wider positive trend of awareness of correct bit and bridle fit. However, much as I love the ethos behind ergonomic bridles and have used a bit fitter myself, I am still wedded to traditional bridle shapes. Shires Velociti range combining both seemed like a perfect solution.
“[the Velociti range] has been ergonomically designed to avoid the sensitive facial nerves.”
Woody modelling the Shires Velociti Dressage Bridle in Black from Naylors. Photo by Equipassion UK
What are the Features of the Shires Velociti Bridle?
I opted for the Shires Velociti Ergonomic Flash Bridle in Black. I liked the traditional bridle shape, which I felt would look smart both at home and in competitions.
This was also one of the only bridles in the Velociti range with a removable flash. This was an important feature for me, since I only really use a flash when I’m jumping and wanted the flexibility to take it off. One of my favourite features would quickly become the signature Velociti reins - designed with raised rubber bumps that spell out ‘Velociti’, they combine flexible and assured grip with thoughtful, stylish design.
Scroll through some of the bridle’s key features in the below gallery.
Shown above: The FreedomFit headpiece is designed to relieve pressure thanks to the wide, cushioned crown with poll gap and cutaway ear profile; soft leather combined with generous, anti-shock padding on the headpiece, browband and noseband. The unique flash position inhibits evasion of the bit without impeding free flow of air to the nose, promoting unrestricted breathing. An elegant profile is created due to the sleek, angled throatlash and the high shine stainless steel harness buckles. The signature Velociti reins offer flexible and assured grip.
Is the Shires Velociti Bridle Worth It?
I noticed an instant improvement in Woody's way of going after his first time in the bridle. I remarked to my coach on his way of going and she replied, "you'd be surprised what relieving pressure on the face can do for a horse”. I felt so pleased knowing he was evidently more comfortable in the new bridle.
“I noticed an instant improvement in Woody's way of going after his first time in the bridle” - Riding With Rhi
How To Care For A New Bridle
I've always been very careful about how I care for my tack, ever since I went down a rabbit hole on a Horse & Hound forum where I read a saddle maker talk about the perils of over-greasy tack cleaner. Along with the Shires Velociti Dressage Bridle, Naylors kindly gifted me the Carr & Day & Martin 2-Step Belvoir Tack Cleaner and Tack Conditioner. I keep up with cleaning my tack almost every day (unless I'm in a huge rush!) first watering with a microfibre cloth, following up with the Carr & Day & Martin Belvoir Tack Cleaner and finishing with the Tack Conditioner.
The Carr & Day & Martin Tack Cleaner and Tack Conditioner from Naylors
I'm happy to report that my tack has stayed supple and shiny thanks to the tack cleaner, but without an added layer of grease that often seems to be the only way to achieve a high shine with other tack cleaning products.
I've now had this bridle for several months and never looked back. The design is beautiful, with subtle details and quality craftsmanship. I feel great knowing how much more comfortable my horse is, whilst also maintaining a really smart look.
Thank you to Naylors for the opportunity to try this bridle out on Woody. Watch the bridle in action in my below YouTube video where I follow the morning routine of Laura Collett and talk you through some of the bridle's key features and my tack cleaning routine.
Thank you to Equipassion for her stunning photos of Woody and I for this collaboration. The Shires Velociti Bridle, Carr & Day & Martin Tack Cleaner and Conditioner were gifted items by Naylors in exchange for content.
