How to Put on Western Spurs & Straps

Nothing compliments cowboy boots better than a pair of western spurs. Nothing says old west better then the jingle of a pair of western spurs. But, most of all, nothing tells your horse to getting going better then a pair of western spurs. They look great, sound great and are a functional piece of cowboy equipment. Just like your boots and saddle, they have to fit right and be put on correctly to do the job.

Things You'll Need

  • Boots
  • Spurs
  • Spur straps
  • Rubber mallet
  • Hoof nippers
  • Leather whole punch
  • Blowtorch
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find the right size spur and spur strap for your boot--one of three sizes fit most riders. A standard adult-size spur typically fits most men's boots and women's boots size 7 and up. A youth/ladies spur fits women's boots under size 7 and boys and girls over six years old. Children under six will need child spurs.

      If your leg comes past the barrel of your horse you will want a longer shank so you can reach your horse's side without pointing your toes down and out.

    • 2

      Fit the spur to your boot so that, without a spur strap, the spur would most likely stay put. Often times, you can bend the spur by hand, but if you cannot, you can use a rubber mallet to narrow the spurs or hoof nippers to widen them.

      Plain spurs, especially if made from pot metal, can be heated with a blowtorch if you have trouble bending them. You can then easily clean any black smudges left by the torch. Fancier spurs, or ones made from aluminum, can be set on top of a heater, but do not use a torch on these, as it will damage the protective coating.

      Try to adjust the spurs as little as possible so you do not weaken them.

    • 3

      Attach the spur straps to the spurs. There are different styles that attach differently. Have someone from a tack shop or western apparel store help you if you cannot attach your spur straps. The buckle typically goes on the outside of your foot, but many older cowboys have cleaned dirt off them too many times and find it is easier to put on their spurs with the buckle on the inside.

    • 4

      Slip the spur over the heel of the back of your boot and buckle the leather spur strap snugly over the arch of your foot. If the straps are too long, you can usually punch extra holes to pull them tighter and make them fit.