How to Select the Right Spurs for Western Riding

No matter what type of horse you ride, it is important to have the right equipment and the right tack. Whether you ride English or Western, there is a good chance that spurs are a part of your riding equipment. When properly used, spurs are an extension of your leg aids, allowing your cues to the horse to be subtler and more refined. In order to get the most out of your partnership with your horse, it is important to choose the right Western spurs.

Things You'll Need

  • Boots
  • Spurs
  • Spur straps
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose slip-on spurs if all you need to do is give your horse a bit of encouragement from time to time. Some horses can become very dull sided and lazy, and putting on a pair of slip-on spurs can get them through those problems. These spurs are designed to simply slip over the heel of your boot, without the use of spur straps.

    • 2

      Choose spurs that are stylish and well coordinated with the rest of your outfit if you plan to show your horse in judged classes, such as Western Pleasure and Western Horsemanship. It is important to present a polished overall picture to the judge, and the spurs you wear are part of that package. The spurs do not need to be large and showy, but they do need to be well polished and elegant.

    • 3

      Look for spurs with rowels that are easy to control. Spurs should be an extension of your natural cues, and rolling the rowels against your horse's sides is a good way to enhance communication with your horse. Make sure the rowels on the spurs spin freely; this will allow you to make subtle and nearly invisible cues.

    • 4

      Wear your regular cowboy boots when you shop for spurs. No matter what kind of spurs you choose, it is critical that they fit your boots properly. Spurs that are too wide for the boots will look sloppy and unprofessional, while spurs that are too narrow will be uncomfortable to wear.