In the equestrian world, many myths circulate about spurs. Some see them as a tool of coercion, others – as an indispensable attribute of elegance. The truth, however, lies in biomechanics and communication. A spur is not the “gas pedal” in a car that is meant to force the horse to move. It is rather a “scalpel” in a surgeon’s hands or a signal “amplifier” that allows a whisper instead of a shout.
Before you attach spurs to your riding boots, it is worth understanding when they are an aid and when they become a mistake.
1. Are you ready for spurs? The stable-leg test
Before you decide to buy spurs, you must honestly assess your seat. The most important rule of the ethical use of spurs is an independent and stable lower leg.
- Problem: If your leg “flies” with every jump or trot stride, the spur will accidentally dig into the horse’s side. This leads to desensitising the animal, pain and even rebellion (the so-called “going against the leg”).
- Rule: We use spurs only when we can consciously control every millimetre of our foot’s movement.
2. A spur is not a punishment, it is a refinement
The main task of a spur is to strengthen and refine the leg signal, especially in higher dressage elements such as lateral movements or collection. Thanks to it, you do not have to kick the horse with the whole side of your foot – a gentle point impulse is enough.
📦 Precise tools for the conscious rider
Balotade® Leather Spur Straps
Balotade® Blue Rounded Spurs
Balotade® Rounded Spurs, Rainbow
Balotade® Black Rounded Spurs
Balotade® Gold Rounded Spurs
3. Technique of use: impulse and immediate release
The key to success is a “pulsing” action.
- The escalation rule: First you act with the leg. If the horse does not respond, you add a short, precise signal with the spur.
- Reward through release of pressure: As soon as the horse responds to the aid, the leg must immediately return to the neutral position. It is precisely the release of pressure that teaches the horse it has done the task correctly.
- Angle of action: The spur should touch the horse’s side at an angle, not be jabbed into it perpendicularly.
4. Choosing the model to suit temperament and sensitivity
Not every spur works the same way. In the Balotade range you will find models with different degrees of action:
- Ball spurs: The mildest, ideal for sensitive horses or for riders who are only just introducing this aid.
- Hammer-head / short spurs: Allow a precise signal while keeping a large safety margin.
- Spurs with a rotating rowel: Paradoxically, they can be milder, because the rowel rolls over the horse’s skin instead of digging into it.
Take care of the horse’s hygiene and skin. After every ride, check the horse’s sides. If you notice rubbed-off hair or small wounds, it is a sign that your leg is not stable enough or you have chosen too sharp a model. In that case, immediately put the spurs away and go back to working on your seat.
Summary
Using spurs is the privilege of a rider who is in control of their own body. If they are used with sensitivity, they become an amazing tool that allows almost invisible communication with the horse. Remember: the less force you use, the more your horse will hear.
