Top 12 Curb and Pelham Bits in the USA for 2025 — Vet- and Pro-Rider-Reviewed Picks for Precise Poll & Jaw Control

Korsteel's Liverpool driving bit is a best-in-class, workmanlike choice that pairs traditional Liverpool curb geometry with durable stainless construction, making it a go-to for carriage drivers who need reliability on a budget. It outperforms many rivals on value—offering multiple port and shank options at a lower price point than premium biomechanical designs like Myler—while remaining more conventional in action than the ergonomically focused Zilco Butterfly.

The Reinsman Stage C Short Shank Smooth Snaffle is a market leader for short-shank curb-style bits used in show and performance settings because it balances smooth, consistent leverage with polished steel durability. In the context of curb shank styles it provides a middle ground between the subtlety of Metalab's short shank and the more aggressive correction designs, and it is often priced competitively for riders who want reliable, show-ready hardware without the premium of specialized mouthpiece engineering.

The Myler Level 2-3 Sweet Iron Ported Barrel is best-in-class for riders who need a balanced curb mouthpiece that combines tongue relief with clear communication; its ported barrel design and sweet iron finish encourage salivation and a softer response while limiting nutcracker jaw action. Technically refined and aimed at fitting a wide range of mouths, it commands a premium over simpler curb options but delivers superior adjustability and refined pressure distribution compared with lower‑priced models in this list.

Greenhawk's premium leather curb strap is marketed as an upscale, long‑lasting strap with thicker, finely finished leather and reinforced stitching for riders who prioritize durability and appearance. Compared with mid‑range leather straps like the Shires Velociti, it sits at a higher price point but offers superior longevity and a more polished look, delivering long‑term value for competitors and discerning owners.

Trust's Inno Sense Pelham in Sweet Iron is engineered to encourage salivation and responsiveness, but sweet iron’s natural tendency to oxidize means corrosion-control strategies (such as protective plating or topcoats) are often recommended when finish longevity is the priority. Financially and technically, it appeals to riders who want the training advantages of sweet iron while retaining the option to add plated corrosion protection, though it usually needs more active care than stainless or Aurigan options.

Korsteel Stainless Steel Pony Pelham is positioned as the durable, no-nonsense choice for pony riders who want long life and low maintenance. Its solid stainless construction offers good value compared with the softer, coated alternatives in this list and typically costs less over time due to corrosion resistance and easy care. Against the others here it provides a straightforward, predictable action that suits ponies needing clear, consistent leverage rather than extra cushioning or sweetened mouthpieces.

The Shires Blenheim Leather Pelham pairs traditional Pelham leverage with leather-covered cheeks for quieter, less intrusive contact and a mid-range shank length that balances curb and poll effects. It occupies the middle of the price and comfort spectrum compared with the Korsteel's economy stainless design and the Neue Schule's high-tech options, offering good value for riders seeking a softer feel without sacrificing standard Pelham leverage.

Happy Mouth Shaped Mullen Pelham uses a soft, horse-friendly polymer shaped to the contours of the mouth to maximize acceptance and minimize resistance, which is why it’s preferred for sensitive or young horses in this Pelham Mouthpieces comparison. Softer than stainless models like Korsteel and more comfort-focused than traditional metal Pelhams, it often carries a modest premium but can deliver financial savings through reduced training time and better rideability for tricky mouths.

The Nunn Finer Pelham Converter Strap stands out as a high-performance, show-grade option featuring premium leather, reinforced stitching, and refined metalwork designed to minimize bulk and slippage on pelham rein attachments. It commands a higher price than mid-range alternatives like MacKey but offers technical advantages in fit and longevity comparable to or exceeding Shires, making it the preferred choice for competitive riders who demand professional-level reliability.

Sprenger Aurigan Dynamic RS Pelham is the premium market leader for Pelham Materials and Coatings thanks to its Aurigan alloy that promotes salivation without the rapid corrosion of sweet iron, paired with Sprenger’s Dynamic RS joint design for refined responsiveness. Although it carries a higher upfront cost than stainless or polymer-covered alternatives, its consistent alloy behavior and long-term durability can lower replacement frequency and deliver superior technical performance for high‑level or sensitive horses.

Korsteel rubber bit guards are a budget-friendly, widely available option that provides sturdy protection for curb and pelham bits without a high price tag, making them a popular economical pick. Their thicker, no-frills rubber construction offers dependable protection and is often less expensive than specialty brands, though it is firmer than softer models like Happy Mouth and less plush than Centaur fleece. Within this lineup, Korsteel represents the best value for riders seeking durable, low-cost guards for everyday schooling and turnout.