How to Put on a Spur

Spurs, in any discipline, are intended to make a horse more reactive to the rider. With a touch or poke of the spur, the horse is more willing to round out his back, drive from behind, drop his head or any number of other desired responses. Proper spur fit and position are required to ensure safe, appropriate use.

Things You'll Need

  • Pair of spurs
  • Pair of spur straps
  • Boots
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Instructions

  1. Wearing Western Spurs

    • 1

      Fit the U-shaped heel band snugly to the back of the boot. If there is any curve whatsoever to the spur, the rowel should always face downward.

    • 2

      Fasten one end of the spur strap to the button on one side of the spur.

    • 3

      Pass the spur strap over the top of the boot, across the bridge of the foot, and secure it tightly to the other side of the spur. Some spur straps are designed to fit under the heel rather than around the ankle, so it is important to take note and position spurs accordingly.

    • 4

      Adjust the strap for correct fit, which should be neither too tight nor too loose.

    Wearing English Spurs

    • 5

      Strap spurs on using either thin nylon or leather spur straps.

    • 6

      Insert the spur strap into the English riding spur to the inside of the spur.

    • 7

      Weave the spur strap through the slots on the spurs.

    • 8

      Run the spur strap underneath the boot, just in front of the heel cleft.

    • 9

      Feed the strap upward through the slots and over the top of the foot.

    • 10

      Secure the spurs snugly to the boots, keeping in mind that English spurs are designed to sit higher on the ankle instead of low on the heel like Western spurs.