It depends what you are using it for. Generally figure-8 bridles are used on eventers, jumpers or equitation horses. It helps keep the horse's jaw closed for more control by the rider. Not all eventers, jumpers or equitation horses need them though--only use a particular piece of tack or bit if you understand what it does and know that your horse needs it.
One can purchase good but used bridles from Amazon or other online websites that sell used goods such as Craig's list as well. One can also visit their local department store that sells this item used.
yes you can
Yes, Western and English bridles differ greatly. For one thing, they have completely different uses. For another thing, there are many types of English bridles, all used for specific events. Western bridles are pretty close to each other, although some do differ. English bridles are very complex and have many straps and different bits or reins. Western bridles are mush simpler, and do not have nose bands or chin straps. Some have throat latches, but many don't. I could go on forever listing the differences, but I'll just leave it at that.
If you are asking about ice skating of course they are good. I don't know why you would ask that.
"Sound the Bugle" is a good one :) it has showers, carrots, saddles, bridles and horseshoes! for cheap too
Hanoverian bridles have nosebands and then flash/drop nosebands. Cavesson bridles have a noseband.
A figure 8 simply keeps the horses mouth closed around the bit so it cannot evade the bit. Sometimes its used simply to keep a horses tongue in its mouth when the horse likes to stick it out. (Not kidding, there are horses that prefer to keep their tongue stuck out.) A flash noseband performs the same function but some people think a figure 8 is more comfortable for the horse. You can certainly use a martingale with a figure 8. If you use a standing martingale be sure to attach it to the part of the nose band that does not go below the bit. It must attach to the upper noseband.
Hire a saddler
They are made in Oakbark.
Basically, yes. English style bridles are used for a variety of sports including 'over fences' or jumping.
It is not- however, it can be expensive to feed and care for a horse, and good tack (saddles, bridles, etc) is not cheap.
For saddles + bridles you hire a saddler For horseshoes you hire a farrier applehorse1 on howrse has answered this See ya around ;)