Spur - Types of Spurs

Types of Spurs

Spurs are divided into Men's, Women's, and Children's, according to width (which must fit on the heel of the rider's boot). Spurs are further divided into length of the neck, with 1/4" being relatively small (and a common size in children's spurs), with some being 2-3" long. Many competition rules limit the length of the neck.

• Round end: end is a metal ball about the size of a small marble, making it one of the milder spurs
• Knob end: end of the spur is squared off but blunted at the edges
• Prince of Wales: has a flat end, making is slightly sharper. This is a popular spur.
• Rowelled spur: the end of the spur has a toothed wheel which spins. This is the most common western-style spur, although it is seen on some English-style spurs. Teeth are dulled at the points. A rowel with many small teeth is milder than one with only a few, larger teeth. Most rowels have at least eight teeth on each wheel. Other variations, more common in English riding, include:
  • Disc: the end has a small rowel-like rolling disc without teeth, which allows the spur to roll on the horse's side when applied, decreasing chance of spur marks. Popular in dressage. Severity depends on thickness of disc.
  • Roller spur: end of the neck has a plastic "roller," which moves as the horse's side is touched. This spur tends to reduce spur-rubs on sensitive horses. It is considered very mild.
• Swan-neck: the neck of the spur goes upward at an angle, before leveling off, looking similar to the neck of a swan. This is commonly seen in dressage.
• Waterford: the end of the neck has a large, round metal ball, making the spur softer and less likely to cause spur rubs.
• Le spur (English) or Barrel Racing Spur (Western): a spur with small "teeth" or ridges on the inside of the heel band, instead of a neck. For use, the rider does not have to turn in the heel. A quicker and more subtle design, but also more apt to be accidentally used when not intended.
• Half Mounted: The spur is decorated on one side only with silver, copper or bronze decals, logos or coverings.
• Full or Double Mounted: The spur is decorated on both sides (in and out) with precious metals, images and designs.