Spurs

Which spurs are there for riding?

Spurs can be a subtle but significant aid to riding. They stimulate the horse's abdominal muscles and motivate them to bend, flexion and go into collection. Nevertheless, spurs only belong on experienced, calm riders legs who can keep their heels away from the horse's body.
If these requirements are met, you can choose between different types of spurs:

• Spurs with a straight neck
• Knob spurs
• Swan neck spurs
• Daisy rowel spurs
• Smooth rowel spurs
• Fluted spurs
• Hammerhead spurs
• Roller spurs

At Kramer Equestrian you will find suitable spurs in a wide variety of designs, for every level of rider and every budget. In our spur strap category you will find suitable fastenings for your spurs. We also have a wide selection of spurs and spur straps for Western riders.

Which spur types are suitable for beginners?

Spurs can be both a curse and a blessing. It depends on how well the rider can handle spurs. In addition, when looking for the right spur type for beginners, it is also crucial whether the rider is a novice rider or a beginner when it comes to using spurs. Whether a beginner rider needs spurs should be critically questioned, as they usually have little control over their legs and are more likely to cause damage with spurs as a result. Not only can the horse be seriously injured, but if the horse's belly is knocked uncontrollably, it can become dulled.
Spurs must be earned. Spur beginners should therefore first ride with rounded, short spurs until they are proficient enough to use the spur sensibly. Kramer Equestrian therefore offers ball spurs or spurs with a horizontal ball wheel. These are particularly gentle and are also available in different lengths and with or without spur protection.

Which spurs are suitable for which horse?

The horse which is to be ridden also plays an important role in choosing the right spurs. Keep in mind that although blunt, rounded spurs are gentle, they can also hurt the horse in the long run if used incorrectly (constant kicking). They may even hurt more than rowel spurs or daisy rowel spurs, as they distribute the pressure by rolling over the contact surface.
The following spurs are recommended for the following horses:

• Small horses: long, upwardly curved swan-neck spurs
• Sensitive horses: for gentle, small impulses, knob spurs with a short neck or spurs with a rounded end are suitable.
• Insensitive horses: for short but clear impulses, rowel spurs with a round wheel or roller spurs are suitable
• Impulsive horses: daisy rowel spurs with rounded spikes

When using spurs, remember that spurs do not make the horse go faster, but serve to provide specific aids. The contact through the spur is only meant to encourage the horse to step under and thus initiate collection.

How are the spurs applied correctly?

Spurs must fit correctly so that they do not defeat their purpose and possibly even cause damage. Classic spurs are attached by means of spur straps:

• The lateral shank ends of the spur sit below the ankle.
• These lie parallel to the ground
• The rear part sits above the heel
• The spur strap is threaded inside-out through the slits
• The strap runs along the bottom in front of the heel and over the top of the foot.
• The buckle end of the strap is always fastened on the outside.

When fastening the spur, make sure that it is tight but not too tight on the boot. If it is too tight or buckled, it can cause uncomfortable pressure points.

What is the best way to care for spurs?

Regular care is also important for spurs, as not only the material can be damaged, but also the horse. Cleaning is especially important for spurs with moving parts, such as rowel spurs. If they are dirty and jammed, they can cause severe cuts to the horse. Therefore, before every ride, check whether the wheel is free and movable.
It is usually sufficient to clean the spurs with hot water, a little washing-up liquid and a sponge or cloth. Do not use aggressive cleaners, as even the highest quality material will eventually be damaged. Every now and then, a metal polish is appropriate for your metal spurs. Spurs made of stainless steel are particularly easy to clean. In our online shop you will find a wide selection of stainless steel spurs under the SHOWMASTER, Silk Steel and STONEDEEK brands.