United States Eventing Association

Delay of Implementation - EV115.2.d – Maximum Diameter of Snaffle Bits

The FEI implemented a new rule regarding the minimum diameter of snaffle bits permitted for the dressage phase of eventing competitions effective January 1, 2019. In an effort to maintain consistency between the FEI Eventing Rules and USEF Rules for Eventing pertaining to saddlery and equipment, the Eventing Sport Committee (ESC) voted to adopt the same rule for USEF Licensed/Endorsed Eventing Competitions. Rule EV115.2.d was included in the USEF Rules for Eventing on January 18, 2019.

During the first USEF eventing competition held after the implementation of the rule, a significant number of the bits measured (commonly used bits) were out of compliance with this rule. Subsequently, we’ve been advised that the FEI will discuss the rule further and it is possible they will make amendments. Therefore, the ESC discussed the matter and voted to support the submission of a Request for Presidential Modification delaying the implementation of EV115.2.d until November 30, 2019 to allow time for further consideration. The Presidential modification was approved and can be found here.

Organizers are asked to please post a copy of the Presidential Modification in a prominent location at every competition.

For reference, here is the rule that has been delayed in implementation:

EV115 Saddlery

2. DRESSAGE TEST

d. Snaffles are permitted and must have a minimum diameter of fourteen millimeters (14 mm). For ponies, the min­imum diameter shall be ten millimeters (10 mm). The diameter of the mouthpiece is measured adjacent to the rings or the cheeks of the mouthpiece. The reins must be attached to the bit.