Step 2: Choose your cheekpiece

Refining how the contact is delivered

Once you have selected the appropriate mouthpiece, the cheekpiece determines how the bit sits within the mouth and how the aids are delivered.

Full Cheek: Provides enhanced lateral guidance and stability.

Fixed Ring : Offers a stable, consistent feel with a more direct aid and slower release.

Loose Ring : Allows greater movement within the mouth, creating a softer feel with a quicker release.

Baucher : Creates a quieter, more stable contact with reduced backward pressure on the mouth and jaw.

Dee Baucher : The larger ring creates a very light contact, allowing the bit to suspend in the mouth and just work gently on the lips.

Balance Cheek Universal : Adds gentle lateral guidance and stability to the universal design, reducing unwanted movement.

Universal : Offers a softly graduated rein action, allowing the rider to introduce mild, adjustable influence.

Kimblewick : Provides a more supportive contact with a mild leverage effect, encouraging lightness and control.

Where do I start?

Horses are developed through the same process — first learning to trust the contact, then developing softness and consistency, before progressing to more precise and refined communication. While not every horse starts at the beginning, each stage builds on the last, creating a consistent and logical approach to training.

By focusing on the horse’s current way of going, the system allows you to choose the right starting point and progress with clarity and confidence.


1: Mouthpiece defines the stage. 2: Cheekpiece refines the delivery. 3: Metal supports acceptance.

Begin your horse's journey →

Still not sure? Take our bit quiz below to help you choose!

Become an Aster Bit Fitter

We’re proud to work with qualified bit fitters who share our passion for horse comfort and performance. If you're looking to offer your clients a range of carefully designed, horse-friendly bits that truly make a difference, we’d love to welcome you to the Aster network.

Whether you're just starting out or already established, we offer guidance on product selection, support with fittings, and flexible options to help you grow your stock. Our starter packs are tailored to suit the types of horses you see most, and we’re always happy to advise on what to include.

Fitters also benefit from exclusive wholesale pricing and the opportunity to join our affiliate program—earning commission while spreading the word about Aster.

If you’d like to become part of the Aster journey, we’d love to hear from you.

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Send us a message if you're interested in becoming a stockist or fitter.

  • Gentle by design

  • Shaped for sensitive mouths and anotomical harmony

  • Alloys promote softness salivation and stability

  • Carefully tested and trusted by professionals