My trainer does CDE, she prefers the thinner snaffle bits or even a straight bit, well fitted as to width in the mouth. She likes copper mouth piece bits best if available. For training to the bit, or if for re-training a horse that is resisting the bit, she has me wrap the bit with latex wrap I get at my tack shop. I make sure I do not get the latex to the mouth corners, but rather to align with the bars on the horse. On a straight bit leave the middle of the bit unwrapped. We use the latex on both snaffle and straight bits. If the latex gets nicked by them chewing, you should replace it, examine every time you use it, better to change it frequently. As a training tip, after putting the new bit in their mouth, my trainer has me feed tiny bits of carrot or a favorite treat easily chewed. When they are more interested in the treat than the bit we take it off and give another tidbit as a reward. Within a week my guys were looking forward to the bit and holding it nicely. Seemed like an easy way to train gently so I thought I would share. My guys both open their mouths readily to the bit now. As far as price of the bit, it is worth it to get a nice bit with an excellent fit, worth some extra money. Don't settle for a cheap bit or one that is "close" in fit. My trainer was very picky with the bit training and bit fit. It was worth it.
