2025 news: the noseband measuring tool

Laura Conz helps us better understand this device and its uses

The noseband has been a “hot topic” in the equestrian world for many years. The FEI has focused on the use of this piece of equipment, specifically on how to consistently assess whether a noseband is too tight, thus becoming coercive. As early as 2023, the FEI regulation had introduced the use of a tool capable of determining the correct size for this piece of tack.

In 2024, a definitive, unequivocal measuring system was established to avoid the arbitrariness of those responsible for the measurement before and after the horse enters the competition. After consulting a team of experts, the FEI has introduced a measuring device that stewards, once properly trained, will be required to use during both the entry and exit from the competition, ensuring that the noseband is not too tight.

Objective Measurement

Until now, the method for measuring the tightness of a noseband was the “two-finger” rule, which required two fingers of the steward to fit between the noseband and the horse’s muzzle. This was undoubtedly an unfair and chaotic method. It was, therefore, time to introduce an impartial system, which, through this new tool, seems to have finally arrived. The tool consists of a wedge, which at its thickest part measures 1.7 centimeters.

It must be able to pass between the nasal bone and the noseband without difficulty. If the tool does not pass, the rider will be required to loosen the noseband before entering the competition. If, however, the noseband is found to be too tight at the end of the competition, the combination will be disqualified, and the rider will receive an official warning.

The introduction of the noseband measuring tool at FEI competitions, across all disciplines, was initially scheduled for January 1, 2025, but has been postponed to May 1, 2025, to give stewards time to familiarize themselves with the new device.

Use and Implications: An Expert Opinion

Like any new regulation, this one comes with its pros, cons, approvals, controversies, doubts, and concerns. To better understand the potential impact of using this measuring tool, we spoke with Laura Conz, Team Manager for Young Riders, Juniors, and Children, as well as Head of the Dressage European Championship team, in addition to being an international-level rider and trainer.

“An objective measuring system is welcome!” states the dressage expert. “The two-finger rule meant everything and nothing at the same time. Riders were literally at the mercy of the stewards.” Indeed, depending on the size of the steward’s fingers, the noseband could appear either too tight or too loose, causing confusion and a lack of fairness.

“It’s correct, both from the standpoint of horse welfare and the fairness of the judgment metric, to introduce a consistent system. However, 1.7 cm is quite a lot; with this system, the noseband ends up being very loose. Considering that a standard bit measures about 1.2 cm, it’s almost as if the noseband isn’t there at all,” Laura continues. “Perhaps it would have been more appropriate to introduce intermediate steps, starting with a measurement that is both correct and comfortable for the horse. Such a gradual progression could have helped trainers, horses, and riders, especially the younger ones, get accustomed to the new noseband size.”

“Any objective action that makes our sport more ethical is well received,” she adds. “Of course, this measurement means nosebands will be much looser, which makes the rider’s action almost imperceptible to avoid provoking a response from the horse.” Laura explains further, “I am already training my pairs to get them accustomed to this new regulation. The goal is to develop horses that carry themselves perfectly on their hindquarters and are extremely light. It won’t be easy for everyone, especially for stallions with particularly strong jaws or for very ‘mare-ish’ mares. It will take time to adjust, but with work, it can be done.”

A Lot at Stake

“A gradual loosening of the noseband, then, could have helped horses, who have been trained differently up until now, adapt more smoothly. Keeping within the range of properly adjusted nosebands—i.e., not too tight—just a few millimeters can make a significant difference. Two parameters change simultaneously: not only is 1.7 cm a lot compared to the two-finger method, but while the two fingers passed along the side of the horse’s head, the new measuring tool passes directly across the nose. Not all horses are comfortable with this maneuver.

It is essential that stewards are gentle and trained in this operation, as it is also crucial to accustom horses to this type of handling in the calm environment of the stables,” concludes Laura Conz. The postponement to mid-next year provides additional time for pairs to adjust to the new regulation, which, within a few years, will also be implemented in national regulations.

As always, Laura Conz has been very precise in addressing some of the concerns and offering solutions, which, as always in equestrianism, should be sought through gradual progression. With time and effort, this new regulation will eventually become the norm.

Elena Pecora

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