TCS Combined noseband double bridle.

Wellington, FL (June 14, 2017) – The revolutionary Tota Comfort System combined noseband, new drop noseband, and the popular Andros Poll Relief headstall have been included in the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF)’s 2017 Dressage Attire and Equipment booklet, confirming its use for competition in the US. Approved for international competition through the Grand Prix by the FEI in January of 2016, the USEF’s evaluation more precisely breaks down the legal uses of the Tota Comfort System combined noseband and new drop noseband in national level competitions in the United States. The patent-pending, standard-shattering bridle design has redefined the traditional tack paradigm by removing torque on the poll, reducing pressure on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and facial nerves, and delivering unmatched comfort for the horse in both competition and training.

The Dressage Attire and Equipment booklet released by the USEF is designed to assist exhibitors as well as USEF Dressage Technical Delegates, Judges and Stewards who officiate dressage classes at any federation licensed competition in the United States. In addition to dressage dress codes, a wealth of bits, and various other bridle designs, the Tota Comfort System combined noseband is depicted as legal for all levels, with the optional use of a throat latch. Full information on the FEI rules for the combined noseband when competing at the international level can be found in the FEI DRE-Rules 2017, page 48.

Further solidifying the Tota Comfort System’s growing legacy in the dressage competition arena in the United States, inclusion in this year’s USEF booklet provides greater clarity for riders as they strive to ensure the proper fit and function of their tack. While its origins and popularity in dressage are a natural extension of the bridle’s design and benefits, jumpers and eventers are also discovering the positive results of using the TCS noseband on their competition mounts.

The Tota Comfort System noseband creates stability in the jaw, reduces poll pressure, and alleviates stress on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ and facial nerves, delivering improved comfort for the horse and connection for the rider. With the goal of improving lightness and harmony in the contact the inspiration behind its inception, Olympians Ashley Holzer and Sue Blinks sought to eliminate unsteadiness in the mouth caused by traditional bridle designs. The unnecessary pressure applied to the poll, facial nerves, and TMJ left the horse uncomfortable, sometimes resulting in head shaking, open mouths, tension, an unwillingness to step into the hand, or leaning on the bit, detracting from overall performance. Holzer and Blinks brought their idea to Charles Tota of The Dressage Connection, and together the three devised a curved cheek piece and stabilizing chin strap that resolved pressure points and granted the horse comfort and relief in the jaw, TMJ, and poll. Soon after the TCS’s debut at the Grand Prix level with Holzer at the reins resulted in a major percentage point jump in their score, hundreds of riders have chosen to ride in the TCS noseband for the sake of their horse’s comfort whether in the arena or in everyday training.

Available as a complete bridle system or noseband attachment, the Tota Comfort System is offered exclusively through its website and retail partners.

For more information on the Tota Comfort System, visit their website at www.totacomfortsystem.com or via phone at 1-888-SNAFFLE.

Media contact:
Equinium Sports Marketing, LLC
Holly Johnson
holly@equinium.com