Are O-ring snaffles bits still in for the show ring?

[JMS Miniatures]

So I bought this bit for its intended use to show my mini with in the Western class. He drives in it just fine, if not better then his old half cheek snaffle. Question is would judges like it? When I first got into this all I have seen was o-ring snaffles. Now its all half cheeks, I rarley see a o-ring anymore these days. Also the rings aren't small, they are bigger then your normal o-ring snaffle I'm sure. Just looking to add a more western look for the class. I personally like it but don't want to waste my time if judges won't like it. Either way I'll keep it. Just looking for opinions.

Honestly after looking at it its probably more of an riding bit but it can still work for driving, but not sure if it would still work in the show ring?

 

[Field-of-Dreams]

I don't see why not. It's still a snaffle!

My guys all drive in half cheeks, just because that's what I have. And they go fine!

 

[Mominis]

I really like my loose ring snaffle better than my half-cheek, but everyone shows in half-cheek. So, half-cheek it is for us.

 

[hobbyhorse23]

Half-cheeks are traditional for driving because they keep the bit from being pulled through the horse's mouth sideways should a rein get caught or something. The spoon on a half-cheek or prongs on a full-cheek snaffle also provide pressure against the opposite side of the face which helps a young horse understand what you're asking when you pick up a rein. It's not a great idea to use a full-cheek on a driving horse as the upper prong could easily get hooked on something (especially in a pair!) but going without any prongs at all is pretty much okay if that's what the horse goes best in. I've eyed that particular bit with interest myself and think it would be pretty well-accepted in a WCP class where they're already deviating strongly from "traditional" harness with those neat tooled and batwing harnesses.

Please post picture of your turnout when you try it! I'd love to see this bit in use.

Leia