Choosing the right pair of spurs

When it comes to horse riding, spurs are part of what are called "artificial aids". Like the whip, they are accessories that have different shapes, sizes or materials. When we rely on the various archival documents, it is clear that spurs have existed for several millennia. The use of these horse riding accessories depends on several factors. In this article, we offer you a short review of spurs and how to choose them.

Spurs, what are they for?

First of all, it is important to correctly determine what spurs are for. Basically, if you use a pair of spurs, it is because you want to support the action of your legs with a particular intensity or precision. Spurs are mainly used in dressage, cross country or even show jumping and polo. Spurs are also used in several other activities related to traditional horse riding that is specific to certain countries or countries. On the other hand, spurs are very rarely found when practicing horse riding that is purely for leisure or outdoors.

In general, spurs are worn in addition to a fixed leg. Without them, your horse may not understand you or feel pain. However, the first idea when wearing spurs is to guide the horse with detail while at the same time removing discomfort. Wearing spurs therefore introduces the notion of respect. Respect for physical integrity, respect for sensations, respect for the horse's responses to different requests. This is why some riders only use spurs occasionally.

What are the main families of spurs?

There are five main families of spurs. The first of these are the round tips called "Polo". A priori, the round tips are the least dangerous tips. These are tips used initially by riders who are not in the habit of riding a horse while equipping themselves with spurs.

Next come the spurs of the Prince of Wales category. These are finer spurs than the round tips. In terms of shaft length, their length can vary. Their severity will increase with the length of the shaft.

There are also spurs from the swan neck family. They are very similar to the Prince of Wales. However, the shaft here is oriented upwards and not downwards. This type of spur is used mainly by riders who have very long legs and who see their limbs descend under the horse's belly.

There is also the category of spurs called hammers. Here, these spurs have a long shaft as well as a relatively flared end. However, very fixed legs will have to be associated with these spurs.

Finally, there is the category of rowels. Rowels represent a category of spurs that can be circular, smooth or even with teeth.

Basically, you should remember that before using a pair of spurs, you will have to ask yourself several questions. Why do you need spurs? Does your horse really need this accessory? Could my leg be lacking in tone? Do I have enough expertise for such use? The choice of the use of spurs must be at the heart of a constructive work dynamic. When you need them, you have to take the best quality. The right choice is on La Sellerie Française .