(photo taken from bigdweb.com)

Here is a simple and quick explanation of basic spur terminology and design!

Spurs are used as riding aids in both Western and English disciplines. Their purpose is to reinforce the natural leg aids and to gain subtly in the horse. Spurs must only be used by rider's who know how to use them. Some spurs, if not used correctly, can cause intense harm to the horse.

A simple spur has three parts to it: The yoke (branch, heel band), the shank (neck), and the rowel.

(photo taken from cowboy-spurs.com)

The yoke is the part that wraps around the back of the heel. The shank extends out from the yoke and ends in the rowel, a revolving wheel or "disk" with points at the end. Most English spurs don't have rowels, but have nubs at the end.

(photo taken from chicksaddlery.com)

Most western spurs have leather spur straps that secure the spur to the foot. Some spurs are tight enough that they will stay on without a strap. Spurs come in men, women, and child sizes.

(photo taken from dhrss.com)

Western spurs are usually heavier, with rowels, they can be simple to very fancy. English spurs are usually smaller with no decorations, and have no rowels.

Here are some common Western spur styles:

Barrel Racing Spur: a spur with small wavy ridges on the inside of the heel band. It is a quicker and more subtle design, as the rider does not have to turn in the heel. But this is style is also more apt to be accidentally used when not intended.

(photo taken from chicksaddlery.com)

Half Mounted: The spur is decorated on one side only with silver, copper or bronze designs.

Full or Double Mounted: The spur is decorated on both sides.

(photo taken from equinenow.com)

The severity of the spur depends on the length of the shank, how many points the rowel has, the length and sharpness of those points. A longer shank will increase the severity of the spur. Contrary to what it looks like, more points on the rowel will decrease the severity. Duller points on a rowel also decrease the severity. Pointier rowels are more severe. If you're shopping for spurs, make sure you know exactly what you want and how to use them correctly so as not to hurt the horse. Rock grinder spurs should only be used by experienced trainers as rock grinder spurs are very severe. If you're shopping for spurs, make sure you have the knowledge to make a wise decision, or have your trainer/riding instructor help you.

Spurs should only be used to help teach the horse subtle cues and should be used responsibly with the horse's best interest at heart.

"Learn this well...the last ride is never the last ride and the end is not the end." -- Richard Rowland

~ Saddle Up