About Metalab
Metalab is an equestrian hardware brand developed by Partrade Trading Company, a premier international distributor of bits, spurs and riding equipment established in 1955. In 1998, Partrade partnered with Eastwest International Enterprises, a manufacturer with over 40 years of experience in producing precision equestrian metalwork, and together they created the Metalab brand. Every Metalab product is made from 18-chrome stainless steel using the lost wax casting process, which produces a smoother, more precise finish than standard casting methods. The result is a range of bits, spurs and stirrups that deliver consistent quality at a mid-range price point, trusted by riders from novice level through to international competition.
Metalab Spurs
Metalab offers one of the broadest spur ranges available in Australia, covering English and western styles in stainless steel and rubber-covered options. English spurs include hammer head, disc rowel and knob styles in a range of neck lengths to suit different rider preferences and leg positions. Rubber-covered spurs provide a softer contact for horses that are sensitive to metal, while stainless steel options deliver a clear, precise aid. Western spurs feature traditional designs with cut-out rowels, rasp embossing and brass detailing for riders competing in campdrafting, western performance and stock classes.
- English spurs - stainless steel and rubber-covered options in disc rowel, hammer head and knob styles
- Western spurs - traditional designs with decorative rowels, rasp patterns and brass accents
- Rubber-covered spurs - softer contact for sensitive horses, available in multiple neck lengths
Metalab Bits
The Metalab bit range covers snaffles, pelhams, weymouths, correction bits and flexi bits across English and western disciplines. Mouthpieces are available in single-jointed, double-jointed, mullen and ported profiles, with cheekpiece options including loose ring, eggbutt, D-ring, full cheek, kimberwick and western shanked styles. The Flexi bit range uses a softer, flexible mouthpiece material moulded over a stainless steel core for horses that dislike rigid metal. Correction bits and leverage styles are designed for advanced western training and competition work. All bits are manufactured to the same lost wax standard as the spur range, ensuring smooth joints, clean edges and a consistent finish.
- English bits - loose ring, eggbutt, D-ring, pelham and weymouth configurations
- Flexi bits - flexible mouthpiece material over a steel core for horses sensitive to metal
- Western bits - shanked snaffles, correction bits and curbs for western training and performance
Metalab Stirrups
Metalab stirrups are available in traditional English and western profiles, manufactured in the same 18-chrome stainless steel as the rest of the range. Options include Fillis irons, peacock safety stirrups and western oxbow styles. The stainless steel construction resists corrosion and maintains its finish with minimal maintenance.
Manufacturing: The Lost Wax Process
Metalab's use of the lost wax casting process is a key differentiator at its price point. Lost wax casting (also called investment casting) creates a detailed wax model of each component, encases it in a ceramic mould, then melts the wax away before pouring molten steel into the cavity. The result is a smoother, more dimensionally accurate product than sand casting or stamping. For bits, this means cleaner joint articulation, rounded edges that reduce the risk of mouth irritation, and a consistent weight and balance from piece to piece. For spurs, it delivers precise rowel shapes and clean detailing without rough spots.
Common Questions About Metalab
Read regular questions we get aked.
Who makes Metalab bits and spurs?
Metalab is a brand developed by Partrade Trading Company in partnership with Eastwest International Enterprises. Partrade has been distributing equestrian hardware since 1955, and the Metalab brand was created in 1998 to bring precision-manufactured bits, spurs and stirrups to riders across all disciplines.
Are Metalab products good quality?
Yes. Metalab products are made from 18-chrome stainless steel using lost wax casting, which produces a smoother, more precise finish than standard manufacturing methods. Each product is tested by professional riders before reaching the market. The brand sits at a mid-range price point while delivering a level of finish typically associated with more expensive European hardware.
Does Metalab make English and western spurs?
Yes. The Metalab spur range covers both English and western styles. English options include disc rowel, hammer head and knob spurs in stainless steel and rubber-covered finishes. Western options include traditional designs with decorative rowels, rasp embossing and brass detailing.
What is lost wax casting?
Lost wax casting is a precision manufacturing process where a detailed wax model of each component is encased in a ceramic mould. The wax is melted away, and molten steel is poured into the cavity. This produces smoother surfaces, cleaner edges and more accurate dimensions than standard sand casting, which is why Metalab uses it across their entire bit, spur and stirrup range.
What is a Metalab Flexi bit?
Metalab Flexi bits use a softer, flexible synthetic material moulded over a stainless steel core. They're designed for horses that resist or react to rigid metal in the mouth. The flexible mouthpiece conforms slightly to the horse's tongue and bars, providing a gentler feel while the steel core maintains structural integrity and clear rein communication.
