I N C E P T I O N A I
  2. Pet supplies
  3. Horses
  4. Horse tack riding equipment
  5. Horse bits mouthpieces
  6. Gag and leverage bits
  7. Ring gag horse bits

Top 5 Ring Gag Horse Bits in Canada for 2025 — Expert Guide with Vet & Trainer Insights to Improve Poll Lift and Responsive Rein Control

Published on Thursday, August 21, 2025

Ring gag bits apply upward pressure through rings on the cheekpiece, offering a sliding leverage effect ideal for horses that need poll and mouth elevation. They provide quick response with adjustable rein placement for performance and show riding. Canadian riders choose ring gags for their ability to combine poll lift with direct rein feedback, useful in disciplines that require elevated frames, rapid collection changes, or refined lateral work. Buyers often prioritize ring size and placement, mouthpiece material, and whether the bit allows for multiple rein positions so they can tailor leverage and timing. Proper fit and progressive training are common consumer preferences: riders want a tool that increases responsiveness without creating discomfort, and they look for trusted brands, corrosion-resistant materials suitable for varied Canadian climates, and designs endorsed by experienced trainers or veterinarians.

Quick Menu

1. Best Stainless Option

2. Best Budget Blue Steel

3. Best Copper Lozenge

4. Best Durable Coated Finish

5. Best Comfort-Focused Schooling

1
BEST STAINLESS OPTION

Metalab Stainless Steel Ring Gag Bit

Metalab Stainless Steel Ring Gag Bit

Metalab's stainless steel ring gag is praised for its durability and classic, polished finish that resists corrosion and requires little maintenance. It holds a best-in-class place for riders who want a reliable, midweight gag that gives clear rein signals without the premium price of specialty mouthpieces, making it more affordable than the copper‑lozenge Pessoa and longer‑lasting than untreated blue‑steel alternatives like Korsteel. Compared with the lighter, anodized Bombers option it trades modern styling for rugged longevity, and versus Shires EquiKind it favors straightforward control over a softer, welfare‑oriented action.

4.5
★★★★☆

  • Mirror-polish bling

  • Surgical-grade steel

  • Mirror-polish bling

  • Surgical-grade steel

Review Summary

90%

"Users praise the Metalab Stainless Steel Ring Gag for its solid, durable stainless construction and reliable action; many note it holds up well over time and is effective for responsive horses, though some find it a bit heavy for sensitive mouths."

  • Steady pressure

  • Solid stainless-steel construction for corrosion resistance and long life.

  • Steady pressure

  • Solid stainless-steel construction for corrosion resistance and long life.

Skill Development & Mastery

Increased Safety & Security

Metalab's stainless steel ring gag is praised for its durability and classic, polished finish that resists corrosion and requires little maintenance. It holds a best-in-class place for riders who want a reliable, midweight gag that gives clear rein signals without the premium price of specialty mouthpieces, making it more affordable than the copper‑lozenge Pessoa and longer‑lasting than untreated blue‑steel alternatives like Korsteel. Compared with the lighter, anodized Bombers option it trades modern styling for rugged longevity, and versus Shires EquiKind it favors straightforward control over a softer, welfare‑oriented action.

  • Mirror-polish bling

  • Surgical-grade steel

  • Steady pressure

  • Solid stainless-steel construction for corrosion resistance and long life.

  • Ring gag action provides leverage and poll pressure for responsive steering.

  • Mirror-polish bling

  • Surgical-grade steel

  • Steady pressure

  • Solid stainless-steel construction for corrosion resistance and long life.

  • Ring gag action provides leverage and poll pressure for responsive steering.

Order Now

$45-85 CAD

2
BEST BUDGET BLUE STEEL

Korsteel Blue Steel Ring Gag

Korsteel Blue Steel Ring Gag

Korsteel's blue steel ring gag is a budget‑friendly option that uses a blue‑finished steel mouthpiece which many riders find encourages salivation and acceptance. It stands out on price and offers a slightly tactile surface compared with plain stainless models such as Metalab, though it can require more upkeep to maintain finish longevity. Compared to the premium Pessoa copper‑lozenge it is a cost‑effective choice for achieving responsiveness, while lacking the anodized wear resistance of Bombers and the comfort focus of Shires EquiKind.

4.2
★★★★☆

  • Blue-steel flair

  • Gentle leverage

  • Blue-steel flair

  • Gentle leverage

Review Summary

85%

"The Korsteel Blue Steel Ring Gag is commonly viewed as a good-value option with decent durability and function, but reviewers occasionally report the blued finish wears or chips and that it can be harsher than expected on lighter horses."

  • Rust-resistant finish

  • Blue-coated steel finish offers a distinctive look and added rust protection.

  • Rust-resistant finish

  • Blue-coated steel finish offers a distinctive look and added rust protection.

Skill Development & Mastery

Increased Safety & Security

Korsteel's blue steel ring gag is a budget‑friendly option that uses a blue‑finished steel mouthpiece which many riders find encourages salivation and acceptance. It stands out on price and offers a slightly tactile surface compared with plain stainless models such as Metalab, though it can require more upkeep to maintain finish longevity. Compared to the premium Pessoa copper‑lozenge it is a cost‑effective choice for achieving responsiveness, while lacking the anodized wear resistance of Bombers and the comfort focus of Shires EquiKind.

  • Blue-steel flair

  • Gentle leverage

  • Rust-resistant finish

  • Blue-coated steel finish offers a distinctive look and added rust protection.

  • Ring gag design that gives riders increased control without complex fittings.

  • Blue-steel flair

  • Gentle leverage

  • Rust-resistant finish

  • Blue-coated steel finish offers a distinctive look and added rust protection.

  • Ring gag design that gives riders increased control without complex fittings.

Order Now

$40-80 CAD

3
BEST COPPER LOZENGE

Pessoa Ring Gag with Copper Lozenge

Pessoa Ring Gag with Copper Lozenge

Pessoa's ring gag with a copper lozenge is designed to promote salivation and softer acceptance, making it a go‑to for fussy or cold mouths where contact needs to be encouraged. It commands a premium price but delivers a technical advantage through the copper element that can improve steadiness and responsiveness compared with plain metal bits like Metalab or Korsteel. While more expensive than Bombers' anodized offerings, Pessoa is chosen by riders seeking that specific copper stimulus rather than the lighter feel or welfare‑focused shaping offered by other bits in this list.

4.4
★★★★☆

  • Copper lozenge charm

  • Tempts salivation

  • Copper lozenge charm

  • Tempts salivation

Review Summary

88%

"Owners like the Pessoa Ring Gag with Copper Lozenge for encouraging salivation and acceptance thanks to the copper lozenge and overall solid build; users report it is effective and comfortable when fitted correctly, though still a strong bit by design."

  • Mild leverage

  • Copper lozenge mouthpiece encourages salivation and acceptance of the bit.

  • Mild leverage

  • Copper lozenge mouthpiece encourages salivation and acceptance of the bit.

Skill Development & Mastery

Increased Safety & Security

Pessoa's ring gag with a copper lozenge is designed to promote salivation and softer acceptance, making it a go‑to for fussy or cold mouths where contact needs to be encouraged. It commands a premium price but delivers a technical advantage through the copper element that can improve steadiness and responsiveness compared with plain metal bits like Metalab or Korsteel. While more expensive than Bombers' anodized offerings, Pessoa is chosen by riders seeking that specific copper stimulus rather than the lighter feel or welfare‑focused shaping offered by other bits in this list.

  • Copper lozenge charm

  • Tempts salivation

  • Mild leverage

  • Copper lozenge mouthpiece encourages salivation and acceptance of the bit.

  • Combination of ring gag leverage with a mouthpiece designed for softness.

  • Copper lozenge charm

  • Tempts salivation

  • Mild leverage

  • Copper lozenge mouthpiece encourages salivation and acceptance of the bit.

  • Combination of ring gag leverage with a mouthpiece designed for softness.

Order Now

$95-160 CAD

4
BEST DURABLE COATED FINISH

Bombers Blue Ring Gag

Bombers Blue Ring Gag

Bombers' blue ring gag blends a contemporary, anodized finish with a relatively lightweight construction, giving a crisp action and strong visual appeal for riders who want modern styling with corrosion resistance. It competes well against traditional stainless pieces such as Metalab by offering lower surface wear and a lighter feel, and often sits in a similar mid‑range price band while looking more high‑end than basic blue‑steel alternatives like Korsteel. Compared with the Pessoa lozenge it prioritizes design and weight over the salivation benefits of copper, and versus Shires EquiKind it leans toward sport performance rather than maximal cushioning.

3.9
★★★☆☆

  • Vivid blue finish

  • Lightweight feel

  • Vivid blue finish

  • Lightweight feel

Review Summary

78%

"The Bombers Blue Ring Gag is generally considered an affordable, functional choice, but reviews are mixed on finish longevity and occasional rough edges — users appreciate the price but some report faster wear than premium brands."

  • Quick-response control

  • Blue protective coating improves corrosion resistance and reduces glare.

  • Quick-response control

  • Blue protective coating improves corrosion resistance and reduces glare.

Skill Development & Mastery

Increased Safety & Security

Bombers' blue ring gag blends a contemporary, anodized finish with a relatively lightweight construction, giving a crisp action and strong visual appeal for riders who want modern styling with corrosion resistance. It competes well against traditional stainless pieces such as Metalab by offering lower surface wear and a lighter feel, and often sits in a similar mid‑range price band while looking more high‑end than basic blue‑steel alternatives like Korsteel. Compared with the Pessoa lozenge it prioritizes design and weight over the salivation benefits of copper, and versus Shires EquiKind it leans toward sport performance rather than maximal cushioning.

  • Vivid blue finish

  • Lightweight feel

  • Quick-response control

  • Blue protective coating improves corrosion resistance and reduces glare.

  • Classic ring gag action with smooth ring movement for clear signals.

  • Vivid blue finish

  • Lightweight feel

  • Quick-response control

  • Blue protective coating improves corrosion resistance and reduces glare.

  • Classic ring gag action with smooth ring movement for clear signals.

Order Now

$70-130 CAD

5
BEST COMFORT-FOCUSED SCHOOLING

Shires EquiKind Ring Gag Bit

Shires EquiKind Ring Gag Bit

Shires EquiKind ring gag is marketed with an emphasis on equine welfare, featuring a gentler, anatomically considerate mouthpiece and smoother ring profiles to reduce pressure points. It holds a leadership position for riders prioritizing comfort and a kinder gag action, typically offered at a competitive price compared with the premium Pessoa while delivering a softer feel than stiffer stainless or blue‑steel models like Metalab and Korsteel. When contrasted with Bombers, EquiKind favors ergonomic design and horse‑friendly materials over lightweight sport styling.

4.3
★★★★☆

  • Gentle design

  • Kind pressure

  • Gentle design

  • Kind pressure

Review Summary

87%

"Shires EquiKind Ring Gag Bit is rated well for its thoughtful design, consistent quality and humane-minded profile; riders report reliable performance and good build quality, with few complaints beyond standard fitting issues."

  • Stable fit

  • Designed with rider control and horse comfort in mind for daily schooling.

  • Stable fit

  • Designed with rider control and horse comfort in mind for daily schooling.

Skill Development & Mastery

Increased Safety & Security

Shires EquiKind ring gag is marketed with an emphasis on equine welfare, featuring a gentler, anatomically considerate mouthpiece and smoother ring profiles to reduce pressure points. It holds a leadership position for riders prioritizing comfort and a kinder gag action, typically offered at a competitive price compared with the premium Pessoa while delivering a softer feel than stiffer stainless or blue‑steel models like Metalab and Korsteel. When contrasted with Bombers, EquiKind favors ergonomic design and horse‑friendly materials over lightweight sport styling.

  • Gentle design

  • Kind pressure

  • Stable fit

  • Designed with rider control and horse comfort in mind for daily schooling.

  • Stainless components and ergonomic shaping to reduce pinching and hotspots.

  • Gentle design

  • Kind pressure

  • Stable fit

  • Designed with rider control and horse comfort in mind for daily schooling.

  • Stainless components and ergonomic shaping to reduce pinching and hotspots.

Order Now

$65-120 CAD

What Research and Equine Science Say About Ring Gag Benefits

Scientific and applied research in equine biomechanics and behavior helps explain why ring gag bits produce the effects riders seek. Studies and professional literature emphasize how leverage, rein placement, poll pressure, and bit material change the distribution of forces, the horse's head carriage, and mouth activity. Importantly, research also highlights that correct fit, consistent rider hands, and graduated training have a greater impact on welfare and performance than bit choice alone. Below are accessible, research-backed takeaways to help beginners understand the mechanisms and practical implications.

Leverage mechanics: Biomechanics work shows that the ring gag changes rein-to-poll force vectors; a higher rein position increases poll elevation while a lower rein position applies more direct mouth pressure. Riders can adjust rein placement to balance poll lift and mouth control.

Pressure distribution and behavior: Equine behavior studies indicate horses respond to changes in pressure location and timing. Quick, consistent cues with a ring gag tend to produce clearer responses, while inconsistent or heavy hands can create resistance or stress.

Material effects: Research and equine dental observations support that copper or copper alloys often increase salivation and acceptance of the bit, which can improve softness at the mouth. Stainless and blue steel resist corrosion and remain smooth in wet or cold conditions common in Canada.

Fit and rider influence: Veterinary and training literature emphasize that an ill-fitting bit or inconsistent rider aids will negate benefits. Proper throatlatch clearance, correct bit width, and adjusted cheekpiece height are critical to safe, effective use.

Welfare-first approach: Clinical guidance from vets and equine specialists recommends trialing bits gradually, monitoring mouth and poll comfort, and combining bit use with targeted training rather than relying on escalation of severity.

In Canada for 2025, the five ring gag options featured here — Metalab Stainless Steel Ring Gag Bit, Korsteel Blue Steel Ring Gag, Pessoa Ring Gag with Copper Lozenge, Bombers Blue Ring Gag, and Shires EquiKind Ring Gag Bit — cover a range of materials, leverage profiles, and trainer-approved designs. For riders seeking a dependable, corrosion-resistant choice that balances responsiveness and comfort across climates, the Metalab Stainless Steel Ring Gag Bit stands out as the best overall pick on this list. We hope you found what you were looking for; use the site search to refine by discipline, bit size, or material, or expand your search to compare additional models and user reviews.

Copyright © 2025 InceptionAi Inc.

Trademark Policy

Articles

About Us

Contact Us

Careers

Sitemap