FEI Measuring Device for Control of Noseband Tightness Gradually Rolled out at 2025 FEI Events

Dressage

FEI

Following a successful testing phase, the FEI has finalised the design of the FEI Measuring Device after more than 600 tests were conducted at FEI Events across the disciplines of Jumping, Dressage, Eventing, Endurance and Driving.

The FEI Measuring Device will be rolled out gradually at FEI Events in the first quarter of 2025.

FEI Makes Its Own Taper Gauge

A noseband tightness measuring device called "taper gauge" was already developed by researchers of the International Society of Equitation Science a decade ago, but the FEI was first highly reluctant to implement it after riders opposed it.

However, with animal welfarists putting enormous pressure on the social licence to operate, the FEI is now finally moving forward with a standardized measuring device which should rule out the discussions of the "one/two finger rule" as well as the position of where a noseband is being measured (on the nasal bone and NOT on the side).

The taper gauge ISES developed almost a decade ago

"The tests were well accepted by the participating Horses, Athletes, Grooms and Officials," the FEI announced. "The tightness of nosebands at FEI Events across all FEI Disciplines, will be assessed using the following FEI Measuring Device designed by the FEI in collaboration with external experts."

Pass Through Tool

The FEI Measuring Device is a pass-through tool that is inserted under the noseband, over the nasal bone, and drawn through from top to bottom. The test is quick and straightforward, taking just a matter of seconds to complete.

If the device passes through, the noseband is loose enough. However, if the device cannot pass through easily, the noseband is considered too tight and the consequences outlined in Art. 1044.8 of the FEI Veterinary Regulations will apply.

Art 1044.8

Effective 1 January 2025, the following provisions apply regarding the Noseband Tightness:

The noseband must be adjusted with sufficient laxity, as determined by an FEI approved Measuring Device. The rule applies to all types of nosebands and to both the upper and lower noseband.

The detailed protocol for measuring the tightness of noseband(s) is provided for in the (Discipline specific) Noseband Tightness Measuring Protocol(s).

Excessively tightened noseband(s), as determined by an FEI approved Measuring Device, shall incur the following consequences:

The steward needs to be able to pull through the device
underneath the noseband on the nasal bone

Pre-Competition: The Horse and the Athlete combination is not allowed to start unless the noseband is re-adjusted to allow enough laxity.

During the Competition: The Horse and Athlete combination is eliminated from the Competition in question and the Athlete is issued with a Yellow Warning Card.

Purchase the Device

The FEI Measuring Device will be available for purchase by anyone and further information will be provided in that regard at a later stage.

In addition, discipline specific protocols and educational material are being produced for FEI Officials, Athletes and their Support Personnel.

"We would like to take this opportunity to extend our sincere thanks to the athletes, their support teams, FEI officials, Organising Committees, representatives of FEI Stakeholders, and National Federations who participated or contributed to the test phase of this project," the FEI stated.

Must Read: Noseband Special: Part I: The History of the Noseband