Customisable Basel braided leather bridle
Basel is a cowhide leather horse bridle with contrasting braid. The woven detail gives this model its distinctive finish.
The anatomical headpiece and noseband are lined and padded. The removable flash strap adapts the noseband to your use.
The throatlash and noseband cheekpieces adjust on both sides. Compare Basel, Mont Blanc and Zurich below before ordering.
Compare Smart Wag anatomical bridles
Basel, Mont Blanc and Zurich answer three different priorities. Compare headpiece, noseband and finish before selecting the size.
All three use cowhide leather and lateral adjustments. Their contact areas and visual details differ.
| Model | Material | Headpiece | Noseband | Colours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basel | Cowhide leather with contrasting braid | Padded anatomical wave headpiece | Wide padded noseband, removable flash strap | Black or brown, silver-coloured fittings |
| Mont Blanc | Padded genuine cowhide leather | Bridge headpiece with lateral bearing areas | Offset U-shaped noseband | Black or brown, silver-coloured fittings |
| Zurich | Cowhide leather with patent detail | Padded anatomical headpiece | Patent pull-back noseband | Black or brown, silver-coloured fittings |
Basel: contrasting braid
Choose Basel for its braided leather and anatomical wave headpiece. It is offered in Pony, Cob and Full.
Remove the flash strap when your use allows it. Then check noseband stability and clearance around the ears.
The braid does not change the adjustment points. Keep the buckles symmetrical and place the noseband over the bony area.
Mont Blanc: anatomical bridge headpiece
Mont Blanc shifts the bearing area through a bridge over the poll. Its two branches rest farther to each side.
Its U-shaped noseband clears sensitive facial areas. Check its position against the horse’s actual head shape.
This model comes in Cob and Full. The headpiece should stay centred when the horse turns or lowers its head.
Zurich: patent noseband
Zurich uses a padded patent pull-back noseband. Its anatomical headpiece remains adjustable on both sides.
Choose it when this finish suits your tack. Always measure the horse before selecting Cob or Full.
Inspect the patent surface after each ride. Wipe marks without hard rubbing and check the stitching regularly.
How to choose your bridle size
Measure browband, noseband circumference, noseband cheekpieces, bit cheekpieces and headpiece length. Use a flexible measuring tape.
Compare every value with the Smart Wag horse size guide. These bridles fit slightly small. Choose the larger size when measurements sit on a boundary.
After adjustment, check ears, poll and mouth corners. The bridle should remain stable while the horse moves.
Repeat this check after several ridden minutes. A buckle that shifts shows that one cheekpiece needs readjustment.
Complete your tack
Pair Basel with the Slip reins. Select their colour after choosing the leather and fittings.
The engraved bridle nameplate adds a name or short text. Check every character before approval.
Read next
The guide to equestrian leather finishes explains braid and patent leather. Continue with the guide to choosing a horse bridle.
For a bitless option, read the sidepull guide. To compare another anatomical construction, open the Mont Blanc product page.
Frequently asked questions about the Basel bridle
What is the difference between Basel and Mont Blanc bridles?
Basel features contrasting braid and an anatomical wave headpiece. Mont Blanc uses a bridge headpiece over the poll.
How should I choose a Smart Wag bridle size?
Measure each part of the head and consult the size guide. These bridles fit slightly small, so size up when unsure.
