What was recalled
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced a recall involving a specific line of high-end equestrian equipment manufactured by Professional’s Choice Sports Medicine Products. Released on June 26, 2025, this action targets several distinct models of equine bits that are part of the Bob Avila collection. These products are designed for professional and serious amateur riders who demand precision and durability in their tack, but unfortunately, certain versions have been identified as having a structural flaw that compromises their safety during use.
The recall specifically affects Swivel Port mouthpiece versions within the collection. If you own any of the following models, your bit is included in this notice: the Avila Santa Maria Swivel Port (model number AVB-171), which features a 7 ¼" shank with a decorative silver design; the Avila Byron Swivel Port (model number AVB-612), characterized by an 8" Gunmetal shank; the Avila Phoenix Swivel Port (model number AVB-621), which includes an 8" cheek with a distinctive silver and copper decorative sunflower at the top of the shank and a silver bar design on the remainder; and the Avila Sunflower Swivel Port (model number AVB-222), featuring a 7" shank with a decorative silver and copper floral design. While the aesthetic details vary across these models to suit different rider preferences, they all share the same internal mechanism that has come under scrutiny.
The company has received five reports of these bits breaking during normal equestrian activities. While no injuries have been reported to date, the potential for a bit to fail while a horse is in motion presents a significant risk. A broken bit can cause the mouthpiece to detach or collapse, leading to a loss of control and potentially causing the rider to fall. This recall underscores the importance of inspecting high-stress components regularly, even in premium equipment.
Unfortunately, the provided recall documentation does not specify the total number of units affected, nor does it list the specific retail locations or dates when these items were originally sold. Consumers are advised to check the model numbers listed above against their current inventory. If your bit matches one of the descriptions and model numbers provided, it is part of this recall regardless of where or when you purchased it.
The hazard, explained
At the heart of this recall is a fundamental failure in structural integrity. The recalled equine bits from Professional's Choice Sports Medicine Products are designed to fit inside a horse’s mouth, connecting the bridle on the outside to the rider’s reins. These specific models feature what is known as a "swivel port" mouthpiece. While swivel mechanisms are often engineered to allow for subtle communication and comfort by reducing pressure points, in this instance, the metal components have proven unable to withstand the physical stresses of normal use. The agency reports that the bit can break during riding. This is not a minor crack or a loose screw; it is a catastrophic failure where the piece snaps apart while the horse is being ridden.
When a metal bit breaks in the middle of a ride, the immediate consequence is a sudden and total loss of control. The reins are no longer connected to the mouthpiece that guides the animal. For a large, powerful animal like a horse, this disconnect can cause instant confusion, panic, or resistance. The rider loses the primary means of steering and stopping. If the broken piece remains in the horse's mouth, it can also become a choking hazard or cause internal injury to the animal’s gums and tongue. However, the most significant danger is not to the horse, but to the human rider.
The primary risk here is falling. When control is lost unexpectedly, even at a slow walk or trot, a rider can be thrown from the saddle. A fall from a horse carries a high risk of serious injury, including broken bones, head trauma, and spinal damage. While the company has received five reports of bits breaking, no injuries have been reported to date. This is fortunate, but it does not eliminate the risk. The hazard exists because the failure is unpredictable. You cannot feel the metal weakening before it snaps. One moment you are guiding your horse normally; the next, the tool meant to help you control the animal has failed, leaving you vulnerable to a sudden, uncontrolled fall.
This type of mechanical failure in equestrian gear is particularly dangerous because riders often rely on their equipment implicitly. We trust that the metal holding our connection to the horse will hold firm under pressure. When that trust is misplaced due to a manufacturing defect, the margin for error disappears. The swivel port design, intended to be an advantage, has become the point of failure, turning a safety feature into a tripwire for potential disaster.
Who is most at risk
When we talk about who is most at risk in this recall, we need to look at two very different groups: the humans riding the horses and the animals themselves. While the official hazard description focuses on the fall hazard to the rider, equine safety is a chain reaction. The primary individuals at risk are adult and amateur equestrians who own or ride the specific Swivel Port mouthpiece bits from the Bob Avila collection. Unlike household products that might sit idle until needed, these tools are active equipment used during high-energy activities. The riders most vulnerable to injury are those who rely on these bits for control and communication with their horses. Because the defect involves the bit breaking during use, the risk is not subtle or gradual; it is sudden and mechanical.
The danger is particularly acute for riders who may be less experienced or those riding in environments where a sudden loss of control could lead to immediate physical harm. If a bit breaks while a horse is moving at speed, the rider loses a critical point of contact. This can cause the horse to react unpredictably—spooking, bolting, or stopping abruptly—all of which increase the likelihood of the rider being thrown. While five reports of broken bits have been documented, the potential for injury in any single incident is significant. Falls from horses are among the most common causes of sports-related injuries, ranging from minor bruises and sprains to serious head trauma or fractures. Although no injuries have been reported with these specific units yet, the mechanical failure poses a latent threat that becomes active the moment the bit snaps under pressure.
It is also important to consider the horses themselves. A broken bit can cause immediate pain or discomfort in the horse’s mouth, leading to resistance, evasion of the bit, or erratic behavior. This puts both the animal and the rider in a precarious situation. Younger riders or children who may be learning to manage horse behavior are especially at risk because they might not have the strength or experience to recover from such a sudden equipment failure. Similarly, elderly riders, who may be more susceptible to injury from falls due to bone density or balance issues, face heightened consequences if a bit fails during a ride.
The risk extends beyond just the physical act of riding. Owners and trainers who purchase these bits for professional use or resale are also indirectly at risk. If they continue to sell or distribute these items, they could be liable if an incident occurs. Therefore, the "at-risk" group includes anyone in the supply chain who has not yet disposed of or returned these specific models: Avila Santa Maria Swivel Port (AVB-171), Avila Byron Swivel Port (AVB-612), Avila Phoenix Swivel Port (AVB-621), and Avila Sunflower Swivel Port (AVB-222). The vulnerability lies in the unpredictability of the failure; you cannot tell by looking at the bit whether it is safe to use until it breaks, which is why immediate cessation of use is the only reliable safety measure.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you own equine tack from Professional's Choice Sports Medicine Products, specifically items from the Bob Avila collection, it is crucial to verify whether your equipment is part of this specific recall. Because these bits are specialized equestrian tools with distinct designs, identifying the correct model requires looking at several key details: the brand, the specific model name, the model number, and the physical characteristics of the bit itself. Do not rely on memory or general descriptions alone; you must match your item against the exact specifications listed below.
First, check the packaging or any documentation that came with the product. The brand should clearly state "Professional's Choice Sports Medicine Products." More importantly, look for the specific model number etched into the metal or printed on the tag. This recall targets four specific models of Swivel Port mouthpiece bits within the Bob Avila collection. If your bit has one of the following model numbers, it is part of this recall: AVB-171, AVB-612, AVB-621, or AVB-222. These numbers are the most reliable way to confirm if your item is affected.
If you cannot find the model number immediately, examine the physical design of the bit closely. Each recalled model has unique decorative and structural features that distinguish it from other bits in the line. Here is how to identify each specific version:
- Avila Santa Maria Swivel Port (Model No. AVB-171): This bit features a 7 ¼" shank. Look for a decorative silver design on the shank and confirm it has a swivel port mouthpiece.
- Avila Byron Swivel Port (Model No. AVB-612): Identify this model by its 8" Gunmetal shank. Like the others, it includes a swivel port mouthpiece.
- Avila Phoenix Swivel Port (Model No. AVB-621): This bit has an 8" cheek. The key identifier is the decorative silver and copper sunflower design at the top of the shank, with a silver bar design on the remainder of the cheek.
- Avila Sunflower Swivel Port (Model No. AVB-222): Look for a 7" shank with a decorative silver and copper floral design throughout, along with the swivel port mouthpiece.
While the recall notice does not specify where these items were sold or their original price, it is worth noting that Professional's Choice products are widely distributed through equestrian supply stores and online retailers. If you purchased your bit recently, check your receipt for the model number. If you have lost the packaging, physically inspecting the metalwork for the unique silver, copper, or Gunmetal finishes described above will help narrow down which model you have. When in doubt, comparing your bit’s shank length and decorative elements against the list above is your best first step before taking further action.
What to do — step by step
If you own any of the recalled Professional's Choice equine bits from the Bob Avila collection, your immediate priority is safety, not convenience. The company has identified a specific structural weakness in these items that can lead them to break during normal use, which poses a serious fall hazard for both the horse and the rider. Because five reports of bits breaking have already been received, you should treat this recall with urgency. Please stop using these products right away. Do not wait for a defect to become visible; the internal failure may happen without warning while you are in the saddle or handling the equipment.
Your first concrete step is to remove the recalled bit from your stable and keep it out of reach of your animals. Once the product is safely stored, you need to initiate the remedy process with Professional's Choice Sports Medicine Products Inc. You have two primary avenues for contact: calling their dedicated recall line or visiting their website. For those who prefer speaking directly with a representative, call toll-free at 800-331-9421. Their team is available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer digital communication, you can email info@profchoice.com or visit https://profchoice.com/recalls directly. Alternatively, navigating to the main site at https://profchoice.com and selecting "Recalls" from the Customer Care menu will guide you to the necessary resources.
When you reach out to them, clearly state that you have one of the recalled Avila Swivel Port models (AVB-171, AVB-612, AVB-621, or AVB-222). Professional's Choice has made the return process straightforward by providing a pre-paid shipping label. This means you do not need to pay for return postage yourself. Simply attach the label to your package and send the bit back to them. The company has committed to processing your remedy upon receipt of the product, so ensure you keep any tracking numbers or confirmation emails as proof that you have returned the item.
You also have a choice in how you want to be compensated for this inconvenience. Professional's Choice offers either a full refund or a free replacement bit. You should specify your preference when you contact them. If you choose a refund, they will send you a payment by check once they verify the return. If you prefer a replacement, they will ship a new product to you. Additionally, note that you may also contact the original retailer where you purchased the item for a refund, though the direct company route is explicitly outlined in this recall notice. Do not attempt to repair or modify the bit yourself, as this will not address the underlying manufacturing defect and could create further safety risks.
Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have one of the recalled Professional's Choice equine bits from the Bob Avila collection, you are not left to deal with this safety issue on your own. The company has established a clear and straightforward remedy to ensure that every affected customer is made whole. Because the primary concern is the potential for the bit to break during use—a hazard that could lead to a dangerous fall for both rider and horse—the manufacturer is prioritizing immediate removal of these items from your tack room. You do not need to wait for further instructions or hope that the defect will resolve itself on its own. Instead, you have two distinct paths available to you: receiving a full refund or obtaining a free replacement product.
The process for initiating either option is designed to be as frictionless as possible, removing the burden of cost from your shoulders. Professional's Choice Sports Medicine Products Inc. has committed to providing you with a pre-paid shipping label. This means that you will not have to spend any of your own money to return the item. Once you contact them through one of their official channels, they will arrange for the logistics of getting the recalled bit back from you. Upon receipt of the returned product, you will receive your chosen remedy. If you prefer a refund, they will send you a payment by check. If you would rather keep using their equipment and want to continue with the same type of bit, they will ship a replacement product to you at no cost.
You have flexibility in how you reach out to them, which can be helpful depending on your preference for communication. You may call their toll-free number at 800-331-9421, available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can send an email to info@profchoice.com or visit their website directly. On the site, you can navigate to https://profchoice.com/recalls or go to https://profchoice.com and select "Recalls" from the Customer Care menu. It is important to use only these official channels to ensure your claim is processed correctly and securely.
There is also an alternative route if you purchased the item recently. You may contact the retailer from which you originally bought the bits to request a refund. This can sometimes be a quicker option if the store has a generous return policy, but it is always wise to confirm with Professional's Choice directly that the specific model and date of purchase qualify for this direct retail remedy. Regardless of which path you choose, the goal is the same: to remove the hazardous bit from your possession promptly and without financial penalty.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using a piece of equipment that feels reliable and has been part of your daily routine with your horse. Perhaps the bit fits perfectly, or maybe you simply do not have the time or immediate resources to navigate the return process right now. However, ignoring this recall carries significant risks that extend far beyond the monetary value of the item. The core issue is not just a minor defect; it is a structural failure point that can compromise the most fundamental aspect of riding: control.
When you continue to use these recalled Professional’s Choice equine bits, you are gambling with stability. The agency has identified that the swivel port mouthpiece versions are prone to breaking during active use. In the context of equestrian sports, a bit is not merely an accessory; it is the primary communication link between your hands and your horse’s mouth. If the metal fractures while you are in motion, that connection snaps instantly. This sudden loss of leverage or pressure cue can be catastrophic. A horse that has been responding to subtle guidance may suddenly feel confused or uncontrolled, potentially leading to a spook, a bolting response, or a refusal to obey basic commands.
The physical consequences for you and your animal are serious. A broken bit in the mouth of a galloping or even trotting horse can cause immediate distress to the animal, which may react unpredictably. For the rider, the most direct danger is the fall hazard explicitly cited by the manufacturer. Losing control of the horse increases the likelihood of being thrown from the saddle. Falls from horses are among the most common causes of serious injury in equestrian activities, ranging from bruises and fractures to traumatic brain injuries. While the company has not yet reported any injuries associated with these specific failures, they have documented five instances where the bits broke. Each break is a warning shot; ignoring it assumes that your next ride will be the one where the metal holds, which is a dangerous assumption to make.
Beyond the immediate physical danger, there is the risk of escalating damage to your horse’s mouth. A broken piece of metal left in the bit assembly can create sharp edges or loose components that may injure the sensitive tissues of the horse’s lips and gums. This not only causes pain but can also lead to long-term aversion to being ridden, undermining years of training and trust. The silence surrounding injuries so far is fortunate, but it does not eliminate the mechanical reality of the defect. Continuing to use a known faulty product transforms a manageable inconvenience into a potential emergency situation. The small effort required to retrieve the prepaid label and ship the item back is a negligible price to pay for ensuring that your next ride remains safe, controlled, and free from unnecessary peril.