WHIS: wireless communication between rider and coach
In short: the WHIS is a wireless communication system that allows a coach to speak directly into the rider’s earpiece, remotely and without bulky equipment. The rider keeps both hands free and attention on their horse, while the instructor transmits instructions in a normal voice, without shouting, even from the other end of the arena. It is used in lessons, individual coaching, and competition preparation.
You know the scene: the coach in the center of the arena, hand cupped around the mouth, repeating the same instruction three times while the wind, sand, and distance swallow half of it. The rider strains to listen, loses track, and the exercise fades. Being heard at a distance, without shouting and without interrupting the work, is a real teaching challenge — and it’s exactly the problem that an earpiece system like the WHIS solves.
At Sellerie Bucéphale, we are often asked how this tool works, who it is for, and which model to start with. Here is our guide to clarify things, without unnecessary jargon and without overselling numbers that only the manufacturer’s manual can confirm.
How it works
The principle is simple. The coach wears a transmitter with a microphone: he speaks normally, as if commenting quietly. The rider wears a receiver connected to a small earpiece. The instructor’s voice comes directly into their ear, continuously, while riding. The result: corrections come at the right moment, on the right movement, without interrupting the work.
Two main types coexist in the range. The "one-way" systems (the coach speaks, the rider listens) cover the vast majority of lesson needs. Some "2-Way" configurations add feedback: the rider can also respond, which is useful for live debriefing or working in pairs. And for group lessons, the duo and Multi versions of the Original range include several receivers and earpieces: multiple riders listen to the coach at the same time.
Ergonomically, the benefit is having free hands: nothing to hold, no phone to handle, attention stays on the horse. The equipment is lightweight and slips under the jacket or clips to the belt.
We do not detail the range in meters or the exact battery life here: these vary depending on the models and usage conditions. Please refer to the product sheet and the manufacturer's manual for the exact specifications of each reference.
Setup & Maintenance
The setup is quick and requires no installation. Both the coach and the rider wear the transmitter and receiver on themselves: they slip into a pocket, under the jacket, or clip to the belt to stay discreet and not interfere with the work. The earpiece is placed in the rider's ear before mounting, leaving the hands free.
Like all electronic equipment, the system runs on battery and recharges between sessions — remember to recharge it after use so it’s ready for the next lesson. For hygiene, since the earpiece is in direct contact with the ear, gentle and regular cleaning is recommended, especially if the equipment is shared among several riders in a facility. For precise details on charging, maintenance, and possible replacement tips, refer to the manufacturer’s manual provided with each reference.
Who is it for? Use cases
Individual or group lessons. This is the primary use. The instructor speaks in a calm voice, without raising it, and each rider receives their instructions exactly when needed. No more shouted or half-lost directions: teaching becomes more precise, and the session flows better. In a group lesson, the duo and Multi versions of the Original range equip several riders at once: each receives the coach’s voice directly in their earpiece.
Individual coaching. For foundational work — seat, contact, consistency of gaits — receiving the right word at the right moment makes all the difference. The coach can guide a movement in real time without breaking the rider’s concentration. The 2-Way accessory also allows for true dialogue.
Competition preparation. In the warm-up paddock, where noise and distance complicate everything, the earpiece allows guiding the warm-up and reminding key points before entering the arena. An important note: the use of a communication system during a competition is regulated by FFE (national) and FEI (international) rules, and varies by discipline. Always check the current rules of your event before relying on it in competition.
The WHIS range at Sellerie Bucéphale
The range is organized into three families. The “Original” family includes complete instruction systems, available in several versions depending on the number of riders to equip: solo, duo, and Multi are not distinct products but variants of the same Original, sized for an increasing number of riders. The “Wireless” family offers lighter kits. Separately, the WHIS Wireless 2-Way is not a standalone complete system but an accessory that adds rider feedback to existing equipment. Finally, the “Competition” line is designed for intensive use. Here is a selection to position the models; each product sheet specifies the exact kit composition.
Finally, to distinguish from complete kits, an accessory that complements an existing WHIS setup:
Need a simple accessory (earpiece, microphone, charger, external battery) rather than a complete kit? Find all references in the WHIS – wireless communication collection.
Not sure which model suits your facility or practice?
Let's talk. We help you choose the right kit according to your use — lessons, coaching, or competition.
Make an appointmentFAQ
Does the WHIS work both ways?
It depends on the model. Classic systems are one-way: the coach speaks, the rider listens. The "2-Way" versions add feedback, so the rider can also respond. Check the product page to know the mode of each reference.
What is the range and battery life?
They vary depending on the models and usage conditions. We prefer not to give an approximate figure: please refer to the product page and the manufacturer's manual for exact values.
Can it be used for a group lesson?
Yes, depending on the model. The duo and Multi versions of the Original range are sized to equip multiple riders; the exact composition (number of receivers and earpieces) is specified on each product page.
How is the equipment worn and maintained?
The transmitter and receiver slip into a pocket or clip to the belt, the earpiece is placed before mounting. The system is recharged between sessions and the earpiece requires gentle and regular cleaning, especially if shared. Detailed instructions are in the manufacturer's manual.
Is the WHIS allowed in competition?
The use of a communication system in competition is regulated by FFE and FEI rules and depends on the discipline. It is the rider's responsibility to check the current rules of their event before relying on it on the day.
Do you have to buy a whole kit if you lose an accessory?
No. The earpieces, microphones, chargers, and external batteries are available separately in the WHIS collection.
