How to Buy Spurs

Riding with spurs can take a little getting used to, but they offer an inexpensive communication aid that can help you give your horse very subtle, precise cues. If you've decided to invest in a pair of your own, follow these steps for buying them.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Borrow someone else's spurs before you get your own. Get an idea of how long the shank on your spurs needs to be so that you aren't constantly turning your toes out to give cues. If your horse isn't responding, you may need to try another kind.
2. Buy appropriate spurs for your preferred style of riding. Western spurs have longer shanks with a rowel at the end and come with varying degrees of curvature. English spurs are shorter and may not have a rowel. Some organizations have specific rules for spurs that you must follow if you plan to show or participate.
3. Choose the right size spurs for your boots. Spurs can come in men's, women's, youth and children's sizes.
4. Pick out straps that are appropriate for your style of spurs and that match the color of your boots. English and Western spur straps are quite different because they attach to the boot in different ways. English straps may be leather or synthetic.
5. Purchase your spurs at a local tack shop or online when you have a good idea of what you want.

Tips & Warnings

• Very short-shanked spurs are sometimes referred to as "humane," but a spur with a long shank and a rowel on an expert rider is gentler than a tiny spur on a novice.