Mattias is a double-jointed sweet iron bit with a special lockup function. The mouthpiece has a tongue relief but locks upwards, which can be good for horses with a low palate and sensitive bars who still prefers a tongue relief.
The bit doesn't lock forward like a normal lockup bit, which means that you won't get the stiff feeling of a straight bit.
The joints are rotated away from the tongue, which gives a more gentle, smooth pressure on the tongue. This can be good for horses that can overreact when you take the reins and need to keep the consistent contact through every movement.
A bit with tongue relief suits horses with large, sensitive tongues who can open their mouths, pull the reins, and play with their tongues.
Material
Sweet iron is a covering on top of a bit made of stainless steel. The purpose is to disguise the metal taste from stainless steel and create a pleasant, sweet taste, encouraging the horse to seek more contact and hold on to the bit. Following use, sweet iron will start to oxidize and turn brownish grey, this is to be expected.
Sweet iron is a good choice for horses who need to seek more contact with the bit.
Fullcheek
Fullcheek sidepieces give a framed and stable feeling. It can help with steering and bending, keeping the horse's shoulders in place. It also protects the mouth corners from getting pinched or rubbed, and keep the mouthpiece steady. It is a very comfortable choice for many horses and a great start for a youngster. Fullcheek is FEI approve, even for dressage.
