13 min read Last updated: January 2026 Love your Micklems comfort but need more control than a snaffle for UK hacking or jumping? This guide shows exactly how to fit a Kimblewick on a Micklembit straps, curb chain set to engage around 45 degrees, and reins in the upper slotso you get mild curb action, two mouth wrinkles, and steadier, kinder brakes. Quick Summary Short on time? Here are the key takeaways. Area: Fit Micklem High What To Do: Position the noseband about four fingers above the bit, seat the cheekpieces behind the cheekbones, and leave two fingers under the noseband. Why It Matters: Clears nerves and teeth while stabilising the bridle for comfortable curb action. Common Mistake: Fitting it low like a cavesson or cranking it tight, causing pressure and instability. Area: Attach Bit Straps What To Do: Use the Micklems bit straps to connect the Kimblewick and adjust for two soft lip wrinkles, matching holes on both sides; swap strap set if needed. Why It Matters: Correct height and symmetry keep the mouthpiece steady and contact clear. Common Mistake: Hanging the bit from main cheekpieces or leaving it too low/uneven. Area: Set Curb Chain What To Do: Fit a curb chain so the bit can rotate roughly 45 before engagement, keeping the chain flat and centred. Why It Matters: Prevents over-rotation and delivers predictable, mild leverage. Common Mistake: Riding without a curb chain or tightening it to clamp the jaw. Area: Choose Rein Slot What To Do: Start in the upper slot for the mildest action; only drop to the lower slot if you genuinely need more control after a few calm rides. Why It Matters: A gradual increase in leverage helps the horse accept the new feel. Common Mistake: Going straight to the lower slot and over-bitting from day one. Area: Post-Ride Checks What To Do: After first rides, re-check every strap, even up bit straps, confirm two wrinkles, and tweak only one hole at a time. Why It Matters: Bedding-in can alter leverage timing and comfort slightly. Common Mistake: Changing multiple settings at once or ignoring small asymmetries. Area: Troubleshoot Behaviour What To Do: For resistance, adjust bit height, raise the noseband, lengthen the curb chain one link, or move reins to the upper slotchange one variable at a time. Why It Matters: Targeted micro-adjustments usually resolve contact issues quickly. Common Mistake: Tightening the noseband to mask problems instead of refining fit. Area: Care & Weatherproofing What To Do: After wet rides, clean/dry the bit and chain, wipe and condition leather, check holes for stretch, and reassemble on equal holes. Why It Matters: Keeps straps supple and lengths precise for consistent curb action and comfort. Common Mistake: Reusing stiff, damp leather or reattaching straps unevenly. Area: Rules & Riding What To Do: Use this combo for hacking/jumping, verify current UK showing rules before competing, and keep rein aids simple while the horse adapts. Why It Matters: Ensures legality and safe, effective control across scenarios. Common Mistake: Assuming all classes allow the setup or riding with busy hands early on. In This Guide What makes a Micklem different? Can you use a Kimblewick with a Micklem? How to fit a Kimblewick on a Micklem Choosing your Kimblewick setup Troubleshooting fit and behaviour UK riding scenarios: jumping, hacking and showing Care, comfort and weatherproofing Essentials and recommendations If you love the comfort-first design of the Micklem bridle but need more control than a snaffle, the Kimblewick is a smart next step. Pairing them correctly gives you mild curb action without sacrificing your horses facial comfort ideal for UK hacking, jumping and even some showing.Key takeaway: A Kimblewick bit works perfectly with a Micklem bridle when fitted high, attached via the Micklems bit straps, and paired with a curb chain start with the upper rein slots for the mildest action.What makes a Micklem different?The Micklem is an anatomical bridle designed to avoid nerve and tooth pressure while stabilising bit position. It positions the noseband higher, buckles it further back on the cheek for stability, and routes straps to keep pressure off delicate areas.The inventor, William Micklem, designed the bridle to work with your horses facial anatomy particularly the motor and sensory nerves around the cheek and jaw. The padded, widened headpiece spreads pressure and avoids the narrow strap under the poll you find on many traditional bridles. The noseband sits above protruding upper molars to prevent tooth pressure and is shaped to clear the major facial nerve exits.The Micklem bridle has a padded widened head piece with no narrow noseband strap going underneath to create poll pressure. It also avoids any pressure on the protruding upper-jaw molar teeth and the exit point of the motor and sensory nerves on the side of the face. William Micklem (source)Importantly for bit users, Micklem bridles include two sets of short bit straps that attach to small rings near the cheekbones. These straps stabilise the bit and make it easy to fine-tune height to the classic two wrinkles at the corners of the mouth. That stability is particularly helpful when you step up to a mild curb like a Kimblewick.Can you use a Kimblewick with a Micklem?Yes a Kimblewick fits a Micklem via the bit straps and works safely when you add a curb chain. UK riders and Horseware International confirm compatibility, including with Pelham-style leverage bits.Forum users report direct confirmation from Horseware International (HWI) and Micklem hire services that Pelhams and Kimblewicks are fine to use with Micklem bridles. In fact, the Competition Micklem is designed to be used with a bit and its strap system is particularly helpful for settling the mouthpiece height precisely for curb action. As one UK forum user relayed from HWI: Yes, you can use a Pelham bit with a Micklem bridle without any issues. (source)The Kimblewick is a fixed cheek curb bit with short leverage, typically milder than a Pelham. It uses a curb chain to prevent the bit from rotating too far, and it offers rein slots so you can choose how much poll pressure you want the upper slot for minimum leverage, or the lower slot for a bit more.How to fit a Kimblewick on a MicklemFit the Micklem higher than a traditional cavesson, attach the Kimblewick to the Micklems bit straps, and set the curb chain so it engages without over-rotating aim for two mouth wrinkles and two fingers under the noseband.Follow this step-by-step:Set the noseband height. William Micklem advises fitting it about four fingers above the bit, or even a little higher, and ensuring vertical cheek pieces sit behind the protruding cheekbones (zygomatic ridge). This clears sensitive structures and stabilises the whole bridle.Attach the bit straps. Clip one of the Micklems included bit strap sets to the small rings near the cheekbones, then to your Kimblewicks rings. Adjust strap holes so the bit sits with two gentle wrinkles at the corners of the mouth. If you cant get the exact height, swap to the other (longer/shorter) strap set.Fit the curb chain. A Kimblewick must be used with a curb chain to limit rotation and deliver correct leverage. Fit it so you can turn the bit shank around 45 degrees before the chain engages secure, but not tight.Choose your reins slot. Start with the upper slot for the mildest poll pressure. Drop to the lower slot only if you need a touch more control once your horse understands the feel.Final noseband check. You should easily fit two fingers under the noseband across the nasal bone. The Micklem is designed to be stable without being tight over-tightening is counterproductive and uncomfortable.Fit it high enough. The front nose piece should be about four fingers above the bit... the vertical cheek pieces have to fit behind the protruding cheek bones; then everything fits as it should. William Micklem (source)Quick tip: After your first ride, re-check every strap. Leverage bits can bed in differently to a snaffle, and you may need one extra hole on the bit strap for the perfect two-wrinkle smile line.Choosing your Kimblewick setupStart mild: use the upper rein slot and a straight or Cambridge mouthpiece, then adjust to the lower slot only if needed. Look for Kimblewicks with an oval or round top opening that aligns cleanly with your cheekpiece for smooth poll action.The Kimblewicks fixed cheek and rein slots give you a simple tuneable curb. The upper slot produces minimal poll pressure; the lower slot adds leverage. For horses stepping up from a snaffle, keep initial rides in the upper slot with a thicker, kinder mouthpiece such as a Cambridge/ported style or hard rubber option. In the UK market, entry-level Kimblewicks start around 24.50 for models like a hard rubber Cambridge mouth a sensible price point to trial the feel before investing in other mouthpieces.Some Kimblewicks feature an oval or round opening on the upper bar where your cheekpiece (or in the Micklems case, the bit strap) sits. This design helps align the force transfer toward the poll when the reins engage, maintaining a consistent contact feel. Test which geometry your horse prefers; many go best when the strap and slot line up without twisting.Pro tip: Keep your rein aids clear and simple at first. The Kimblewick offers curb and poll pressure as well as tongue relief, so give your horse a few short, calm sessions to learn the new feel.Troubleshooting fit and behaviourIf your horse opens the mouth, over-bends, or resists, re-check bridle height, bit strap length, curb chain tension, and rein slot choice. Most issues resolve with micro-adjustments to the Micklems strap system and curb chain.Use this quick checklist:Bit looks low (lip corners flat, no wrinkles)? Shorten the bit straps until you see two soft wrinkles at the mouth corner.Noseband slipping or rubbing? Raise it to four fingers above the bit, and ensure cheekpieces sit fully behind the cheekbones as Micklem recommends.Horse tucks behind the contact? Move reins to the upper slot for less leverage and lengthen the curb chain one link so it engages later.Horse leans or gets strong? Try the lower rein slot for a touch more poll action, but keep the curb chain fair it should prevent over-rotation, not clamp the jaw.Uneven contact side-to-side? Check the Micklems paired bit straps are on equal holes and the curb chain is centred and flat.Remember, the Micklems design avoids pressure on nerves and teeth when fitted high and never overly tight. Let the bridles stability do the work; avoid cranking the noseband to mask contact issues.UK riding scenarios: jumping, hacking and showingA Micklem with a Kimblewick is well-suited to jumping and everyday hacking in the UK, and many riders also use similar curb bits in showing where bits are required and clips arent allowed. Always check your societys current rulebook before a class.For jumping, the Kimblewicks mild curb action gives extra brakes without the busy feel of two reins. The Micklems higher noseband and cheekbone clearance help keep your horse comfortable over fences and during tight turns. For hacking particularly in busy or windy conditions the upper rein slot offers gentle extra control while the Micklems padded headpiece reduces pressure under the headcollar on the walk to and from the field.On showing: UK riders report successful pairing of Pelham/Kimblewick styles with Micklems, and Horseware International has confirmed Pelham compatibility. If youre entering classes that require a bit and disallow bit clips, the Micklem Competition bridle with a correctly fitted Kimblewick is a practical, horse-friendly choice. For discipline-specific tack allowances, consult your organising body (e.g., British Horse Society guidance for general showing and safety) and check current schedules before you travel.Heading out early? Improve your visibility and safety with hi-vis for riders and a snug, up-to-standard riding helmet essentials for UK lanes and bridleways.Care, comfort and weatherproofingIn wet UK seasons, the Micklems padded headpiece helps reduce rubs, and regular cleaning keeps curb chains and bit straps smooth on the skin. After wet rides, wipe leather and check strap holes for stretch.Day-to-day care matters more with leverage bits because tiny changes in strap length alter where the curb engages. After schooling or a muddy hack, clean the Kimblewick and curb chain, and condition the Micklems headpiece so padding stays supple. A soft, stable surface on the poll and nose will keep your horse happier under the additional curb pressures.For turnout or travel in typical British rain, look after the rest of your kit, too. A comfortable horse moves better and accepts the contact more readily, so pair good bridle care with the right seasonal rugs and leg protection:Keep your horse warm and dry in winter with well-fitting turnout rugs from trusted brands like Weatherbeeta and Shires.Support schooling days with protective horse boots and bandages that wont rub when conditions are wet.Stay ahead of coat and skin health with quality brushes and aftercare from our grooming collection.Quick tip: After a particularly rainy hack, loosen the curb chain and unhook the bit straps while you clean, then reassemble and check both sides sit on equal holes before your next ride.Essentials and recommendationsTo run a Kimblewick on a Micklem safely, you need the bridle fitted high, a Kimblewick with a curb chain, and correctly sized bit straps for two visible mouth wrinkles. Start mild and adjust in small steps.Heres a simple shopping and setup list:Micklem bridle (Competition model for bitted work) with both sets of bit straps included.Kimblewick bit suited to your horse (hard rubber or Cambridge/ported mouthpieces are popular stepping stones).Curb chain (always required with a Kimblewick) fitted to engage at roughly 45 rotation.Reins attached to the upper slot to begin, moving to the lower only if needed.Leather care to keep straps supple and holes true for precise fit.At Just Horse Riders, we recommend that you make only one change at a time: keep the rein in the upper slot for a week before trying the lower, and dont alter noseband and curb at the same time. Our customers often find that simply raising the Micklem one hole behind the cheekbones makes contact steadier and reduces the need for more leverage.Riding in the UKs changeable weather? Round out your tack checks with rider kit that keeps you comfortable, safe and focused:Grippy, practical womens jodhpurs and breeches for secure lower leg contact.Smart, breathable competition clothing for show days that align with tack rules.Comfortable, supportive horse riding boots for clear, light aids with leverage bits.Post-ride support with targeted supplements if your horse is stepping up work.Step-by-step: your first ride in this comboFor your first session, ride in the arena, use the upper rein slot, and keep the curb chain fair. Keep it short and positive, then make micro-adjustments to the bit straps before your next ride.Start on the ground. Ask softly for flexions left and right; confirm the curb chain isnt biting and the bit sits steady with two wrinkles.Mount and walk. Practise haltwalkhalt transitions from the seat with light rein support to introduce curb feel without tension.Test steering and brakes. On large circles, check even contact on both reins, then try a couple of quiet half-halts.Cool down, then review fit. Check for any ruffled hair or pink skin at the lips, chin groove, or under the padded headpiece small signs that a one-hole tweak is needed.If you plan to jump, school flatwork first for a few sessions until the contact feels relaxed and consistent. For winter evenings, add hi-vis layers to and from the arena and ensure your helmet fits correctly.Micklem expert insightThe Micklem must be fitted higher than a traditional cavesson, with cheek pieces tucked behind the cheekbones and two fingers under the noseband. This high, anatomical fit is the foundation for comfort with any curb action.William Micklems own guidance is unequivocal on height and cheekbone clearance the noseband goes high, and nothing should press on nerve exits or protruding molars. Thats why this bridle pairs so well with mild leverage bits: the base is already stable and anatomically considerate, so you dont need noseband tightness to control jaw movement. Follow his instructions closely and let the design do the work.When in doubt, take a clear, side-on photo with the bit at rest. You should see two wrinkles at the lips, the noseband level about four fingers above the bit, and the vertical straps cleanly behind the zygomatic ridge. Small, accurate details are what make this combination so comfortable and effective for many UK horses.FAQsWill a Kimblewick bit fit a Micklem bridle properly?Yes. Attach the Kimblewick to the Micklems bit straps at the small rings near the cheekbones, then fit a curb chain. UK riders and Horseware International confirm that Pelham/Kimblewick styles are compatible with Micklem bridles (source).Do I need a curb chain with a Kimblewick on a Micklem?Yes. A Kimblewick requires a curb chain to prevent the bit from rotating too far and to deliver correct, predictable leverage.Which rein slot should I use on my Kimblewick?Use the upper slot for minimal poll pressure to begin. If you need more control once your horse understands the feel, try the lower slot for stronger action.How high should I fit the Micklem noseband?Fit it about four fingers above the bit so the vertical cheek pieces sit behind the cheekbones. Aim for two mouth wrinkles and two fingers under the noseband snug but never tight (source).Can I jump in a Micklem with a Kimblewick in the UK?Yes. This pairing is popular for jumping because it offers mild curb action with a stable, comfortable bridle fit. Many UK riders use it for hacking too; just adapt rein slots to your horses preference.Is this setup allowed for showing?Often yes, especially where bits are required and clips arent allowed, but always check current rules for your discipline or class and consult UK bodies such as the BHS for general guidance.What if my horse still resists the contact?Re-check strap lengths, curb chain tension and bit height. Start with the upper rein slot and make one change at a time; small adjustments usually solve common contact issues with this combination. Shop the Essentials Everything mentioned in this guide, ready to browse. Shop Hi-Vis GearShop Riding HelmetsShop Boots & BandagesShop Turnout RugsShop Grooming Kit