(NEW HOPE, PA May 2, 2011) — The 2011 show season is in full swing and several bridle trends have been identified in the hunter show ring.
 
“After spending the early part of the 2011 show season in Wellington, we identified several trends in the hunter ring,” explained Rebecca Bisilliat, co-owner of Arc de Triomphe (ADT). “The first thing we noticed was that dark leather colors are making a comeback. These bridles are dark from the start, and not produced by simply oiling a light leather to make it dark. The difference can be seen in the deep, even, rich color of the leather.”
 
Another trend is the preference for unique stitching patterns. “A rider’s individual personality is being expressed through the creative stitching patterns we are seeing on the top-end bridles,” stated Jean-Pierre, co-owner of ADT. “This is not flashy, but very tasteful and subtle – perfect for the hunters. The result is a beautiful, understated elegance that reflects an rider’s individual style.”
 
The third trend noted is the attention to comfort so the horse can perform its best. This is displayed as a preference for bridles with padding in key areas: the crown, the noseband, and under the jaw or chin. “But it’s not just the padding,” said Rebecca, “ riders are concerned with the proper fit as well, and more and more of them are seeking custom bridles to allow their horse’s to perform at their best.”
 
These three bridle trends among hunter riders are key for this show season. Arc de Triomphe bridles that are trend-savvy include the Tribute, with a wide noseband, the Matisse, with unique stitching and padding in key areas, and the Eros, featuring a wide noseband, unique stitching and padding. All ADT bridles may be custom ordered to fit any size hunter.
 
To find out more about bridle trends, or ADT’s more than 25 styles of stocked and custom bridles, please call 888.466.7822, or email info@ADTtack.com.