The draft rules, published 8 July 2025, state that the Fédération Équestre Internationale’s (FEI) Dressage Technical Committee (DTC) and working group “have considered the level of expertise required to use the double and conclude that the choice… should be permitted up to and including CDI3* and CDIO3* events.”
While the DTC maintains that “using the double bridle at top sport level is not a welfare issue,” the committee notes that allowing a snaffle option is “an important step in gathering further data and evaluating the choice of bridles from an athlete and officials perspective.”
Currently, double bridles are optional up to CDI2*, but mandatory above that in international Big Tour tests of CDI3*/CDIO3* and above. This proposal marks a significant extension of choice to CDI3*. If approved by the FEI General Assembly on 7 November 2025, it could come into effect 1 January 2027 (after the full rules revision in 2026).
Why the shift?
The move reflects several converging trends: increasing focus on horse welfare and public perception; growing acceptance that a snaffle might suit certain horses and riders better; and a desire by the FEI to monitor and collect data on equipment choice under high-level testing. The memo suggests it is not an immediate overhaul but a methodical “data gathering” phase.
What it means for riders at CDI3*
For riders competing internationally at CDI3* level, the rule opens the possibility of riding Grand Prix tests in a snaffle. This allows a bridle choice tailored to the horse’s comfort, mouth sensitivity or training stage. It also aligns more closely with national and non-FEI competition practices where snaffles remain an option.
It has not been uncommon for riders to compete in the national Intermediate II at a competition in the snaffle one day, then return to the arena for the CDI3* Grand Prix class in a double the next. Allowing the same choice within the international competition would streamline preparation and reduce the contrast between domestic and FEI requirements.
From a training and strategic standpoint, this option would allow riders to prepare horses for what bridle set-up best supports performance. Regardless of the choice between double or snaffle, the expectation for connection, suppleness and self-carriage expected will remain.
Possible changes for Juniors
Alongside the CDI3* proposal, the FEI has also flagged another potential adjustment under the broader 2026 Dressage Rules revision: the removal of double bridles in the CDI Junior classes.
A spokesperson for the FEI confirmed that an item “under consideration” is to no longer permit double bridles for the CDI-J events and championships. If brought forward and approved by the General Assembly, the change would also take effect from 1 January 2027.
This proposal, like the CDI3* snaffle option, forms part of the FEI’s ongoing evaluation of tack choice and its implications for welfare, performance, and progression through the levels.
