Which bits are allowed in show jumping, including E show jumping?

In show jumping the allowed bridle depends heavily on the level. The German Equestrian Federation (FN) explains the gradation by stating that in the lower levels only bits are permitted that a rider at that level can use in a way that is appropriate for the horse. This overview is based on the FN equipment rules for dressage, show jumping and eventing as of February 2026.

Which bits are allowed in show jumping at which levels?

The level determines whether only jointed bits or also leverage bits are allowed.

Up to and including level M* only one pair of reins is allowed, and the rein must be able to slide freely through the rider’s hand. Hunting reins are not permitted. Bit guards made of smooth, flexible material may be used.

What applies to Pelham, show jumping curb bit and three-ring gag?

For all three bits the cheekpiece is buckled into the small upper ring, and a combination with a drop noseband is not allowed.

• Pelham: lower shank max. 7 cm, connector piece from the large to the small lower ring is mandatory. If a curb chain is used it must be movable and have a guard made of leather or soft rubber or synthetic material.
• Show jumping curb bit: one pair of reins in the large ring or in one of the smaller rings or slots, curb chain optional with the same requirements.
• Three-ring gag: the middle ring is larger than the other two, only as a loose ring snaffle, the bit must be able to slide in the middle ring.

With the Baucher bit the cheekpiece is also buckled into the small upper ring. It is allowed with a jointed mouthpiece or as a mullen mouth / straight bar bit, bit guards are permitted.

The FN points out that a Pelham has leverage even with short shanks and that this leverage takes effect very quickly. For this reason, a riding master writing in the FN magazine takes a critical view of the Pelham in the lower levels. According to the FN no training problem can be solved permanently by using a sharper bit.

What measurements apply to mullen mouth / straight bar bits?

Mullen mouth / straight bar bits must be rounded and at the corners of the mouth must be 14–21 mm thick for horses and 10–18 mm for ponies, the thinnest point must be more than 8 mm. Tongue relief is permitted up to a maximum of 40 mm. Locking bits are treated as mullen mouth / straight bar bits in the rules.

Which nosebands are allowed in show jumping?

From level A a noseband is mandatory. The permitted types are those listed in the rules, such as drop, cavesson, flash and grackle noseband with their variants. From level M** any form of bridle is allowed, but the bridle must comply with the rules of riding theory and animal welfare and you must be able to explain its function and effect to the judge on request.