Top 6 Bit Accessories in the USA for 2025: Expert-Reviewed Guards, Reins & Converters to Improve Fit and Safety (What Most Riders Overlook)

Centaur fleece bit guards deliver the highest level of cushioning and protection for curb and pelham bits, reducing rubs and chafing for particularly sensitive horses or those recovering from mouth issues. They command a premium position because the sheepskin or synthetic fleece provides superior comfort and shock absorption compared with rubber options, though they require more cleaning and upkeep and typically cost more up front. In comparison to rubber guards on this list, Centaur fleece is the technical choice when minimizing pressure and irritation is the priority despite higher maintenance and price.

Centaur Flexi bit guards are notable for their low-profile, highly flexible thermoplastic design that minimizes pinching on curb and pelham cheeks while offering longer fatigue life than conventional rubber. Their technical advantage is superior flex and resilience under repeated motion, making them a good mid-to-upper-market choice compared with the softer Happy Mouth polymer and the grippier, higher-priced Waldhausen silicone, while often costing more than plain rubber guards like Coronet.

Nathe bit protectors use a resilient, hypoallergenic polymer that provides long-lasting protection and a neutral mouthfeel ideal for sensitive horses wearing curb and pelham bits. They command a premium position because their material outlasts latex and many basic plastics, delivering lower lifetime cost through durability and less frequent replacement compared with cheaper wraps.

Nunn Finer Leather Bit Keepers are a market leader for riders seeking traditional aesthetics and supple leather performance on curb and Pelham bits; their top-grain leather is finished to resist stretching while remaining comfortable against the horse. Financially they are mid-priced compared with stainless options and provide a classic look that outperforms bargain leather in longevity, though they require more routine care than metal fasteners.

Although a mouthpiece rather than a parts kit, the Myler MB-02 is included here because it functions as a direct replacement centerpiece for many curb and pelham conversions, offering an anatomically contoured profile that promotes acceptance and rider control. Its higher price reflects precision machining and rider-comfort benefits compared with generic mouthpieces, and it pairs especially well with quality chains and hardware such as Coronet or Metalab components. For owners repairing a complete bit setup, replacing a worn mouthpiece with the MB-02 is often a higher-impact, performance-focused upgrade than swapping minor fittings alone.