Spurs & Spur Straps

What kind of Western spurs are there?

Western spurs can be divided into training spurs and show spurs. They differ only in their appearance and, depending on the complexity of the decoration, also in their price. Spurs for daily training are usually kept simple, while show spurs are more fancy to match the show outfit. Further differences between Western spurs can be found in the following points:

• Width of the spurs or heel bands
• Length and bend of the spur neck or shanks
• End of the spur: rounded (bobble spurs) or with a wheel (wheel spurs)

While the width of the heel bands is more a matter of taste, the length of the shanks has an influence and depends on the composition of the horse-rider pair. Riders with long legs, who find it harder to reach the horse with their heels, are more likely to need long spurs than riders with short legs. Spurs with a short spur neck are more suitable for them.
The ending of the spur also determines its effectiveness. In the case of rowel spurs, the situation is as follows: The more and longer the prongs, the softer the spur. Conversely, spurs with short and relatively fewer prongs are sharper in their effect.
Be careful with rowel spurs: These are relatively gentle on the horse's belly because you can roll with them. However, if they are dirty or rusty, the wheel will jam, making it extremely sharp and equivalent to a knife blade. Therefore, before each ride, check that the wheel can move freely and does not jam.
In comparison, bobble spurs, which you cannot roll along, have a more punctual and therefore more intensive effect. Regardless of which spur is ultimately used, they are an aid to increasing the horse's collection. The rule that only advanced riders should use spurs also applies to Western riding. If you would like to learn more about the correct use of spurs, we recommend our detailed guide on the subject of spurs.

How are Western spurs correctly buckled?

Regardless of whether the Western spurs are placed on the leather of the Western boot or directly on the heel, the following points must be observed when buckling both types of spurs:

• The spur stirrup is parallel to the ground
• The spur strap is placed over the rider's foot and buckled there.
• The buckle of the strap points outwards so that it does not press against the horse's belly.

Western spurs must be buckled sufficiently and tightly to the boot so that they do not leave their position. This ensures that the rider can act precisely and that the spurs do not flap or tilt. At the same time, they must not be buckled too tightly, otherwise they can press uncomfortably in the heel area. It is also important to choose the correct size or width of the spur.