What type of spurs should i use

When it comes to port bits, horses have a wide variety of options. If you've ever wondered, "What does a low port bit do? Continue reading as we examine ported bits and the role they play so you can decide which port bits or western correction bits are best for your horse. A saddle is one of the biggest investments you'll make in terms of tack. But the staggering number of options can seem overwhelming when you're trying to find the best ranch saddle for you and your horse.

This article will explain the different types of ranch saddles and give you tips on how to find the best ranch saddle for your needs.

We'll also show you some of the best ranch saddles available from NRS. If you have ever wondered, "What type of bit to use on my horse?

Understanding all the types of horse bits and their uses, however, is essential knowledge for any equestrian or cowboy. Of course, your time is limited, and it should be spent on the more important things of life, namely your horse. The team at NRS has you covered.

We combined our collective knowledge and experience to create the definitive guide to different types of horse bits and how to choose the best one for you. Stores Login View cart. How to Pick the Right Types of Western Spurs If you've heard the jingle jangle when a cowboy walks by, you may think that spurs are just for show. What Are Boot Spurs For? Spurs are used as a: Training device Supplemental way to emphasize a command Means for conveying more precise instructions between rider and mount Spurs are an effective tool when used correctly.

Parts of a Spur The various types of Western spurs can look very different, but all include the same components. Button - holds the spur on the strap. Heelband - U-Shaped piece that fits around the back of the boot; also known as the yoke or branch. Swing Arm - connects the button to the heelband. Shank - a metal bar that holds the rowel to the heelband and holds it away from the boot. Rowel - the wheel-shaped business end of the spur that makes contact with the horse.

Try Weaver cloverleaf women's spurs. Roper-Style Rowel: This point, small-diameter rowel is fairly blunt, but the pointed configuration makes it more aggressive than the cloverleaf. Shank: The short shank is the mark of a roper spur. The short shank helps prevent them from inadvertently jabbing their horses when they stand.

Good for: Ropers, trail riders, and short-legged riders to prevent inadvertent jabs. The middle-of-the-road rowel makes it good for most horses. Try Classic Equine cowboy spurs. I think of it as a step up from that and the cloverleaf, although the blunt points keep it from actually being sharp.

A word of caution: As with bits, even the mildest spur can become abusive when used inappropriately. Good for: Long-legged riders with effective leg control who desire minimal foot movement when applying spur.

As with the roper spur, the rowel makes this one good for most horses. Try Classic Equine reiner spurs. Nine-Point Star Rowel: The large-diameter rowel features nine narrow points that have more bite than any of the previous rowels. For insights into how rowel styles will feel to your horse, run different styles across the palm of your hand when you go shopping. You will feel a marked difference between this rowel style and that of spurs 1, 2, and 3.

Shank: Similar to spur 3. Good for: Good trainers and top non-pros. This spur requires an advanced degree of leg control and rider know-how.

Rock Grinder Rowel: The sharp points are based on a tool used to tune up stone grinding wheels; hence the name. It can be a great training tool for experienced riders: It gets your point across quickly, maximizing reinforcement of leg cues with minimal pressure.

However, it can do damage with the wrong rider. Shank: These spurs belong to my son, B. They feature a long shank with a slightly raised neck, which requires minimal leg movement, especially on someone with shorter legs than mine. Try AJ rock-grinder spurs. Good for: These are professional-level spurs. His Avila Training Stables, Inc. Learn more at bobavila. Where-to-Ride Guide. Training Tips.

Ground Work. Pattern Perfect. This option is even gentler than its metal counterpart. For a little more strength, the next step up is round end spurs. Round end Prince of Wales spurs are another popular choice with English riders, but also suit Western riders. Riding Western, but still not sure what you want to focus on? Spurs are metal attachments to riding boots that can be used as an additional riding aid. Ideally, spurs should be used to refine lateral movement and not to encourage speed.

They come in a variety of styles and can be very gentle or quite harsh. Many riders never use spurs and not all horses respond well to spurs. Like many things in riding, whether or not spurs can and should be used depends on the rider, the horse, and the intended outcome. While spurs should not hurt a horse, they absolutely can hurt a horse. You can minimize risk by using the gentlest spur your horse will respond to, only using the spur as a last resort, and under the guidance of a trusted instructor.

If you are new to spurs, choose something gentle, such as roller ball or bumper spurs. Spurs should be loose enough to slide easily onto the back of your boot without sliding down below the spur ledge on your boots. They should be slightly wider than the boot and have some wiggle room. Spurs that are too tight can damage your boots and cause foot pain, while spurs that are too loose can slide out of place.

Bumper spurs are a softer option for riders who would like to try spurs or horses that are particularly sensitive. Rather than a shank, bumper spurs have a curved metal piece around the heel that is fairly flat, rather than spiked.