Choosing Your Spurs: Types, Length, and Use
The spur is one of those accessories that often intimidate the rider when choosing: tip, length, roller or not… the combinations are numerous. At Sellerie Bucéphale, we like to remind a simple thing: the spur is not a tool of force, it is a tool of precision. Well chosen and well used, it makes the dialogue with the horse finer. Poorly used, it blurs the message. Here’s how we help you see clearly.
What is a spur for?
The spur extends and refines the leg’s action. It allows you to specify a request — a lateral movement, a transition, a clearer response — without having to harden the aid. This is important for well-being: the spur does not replace the leg and does not compensate for a lack of response. It comes to confirm an already established aid, never to punish.
For this reason, it is intended for a rider whose leg is stable and independent from the hand and seat. As long as the position is not secure, an involuntary contact with the spur sends confusing signals. When in doubt, it’s better to progress without it, then introduce a soft tip. The golden rule remains the same as for the whip: never in anger, always in the service of clarity.
Types of spurs
Three criteria are enough to find your way: the tip (the end of the rod, in contact with the horse), the rod length, and the branch shape.
Without roller: the gentlest action
The tip is fixed. We distinguish:
- Ball tip: a ball at the end of the rod, the gentlest and most progressive action. A classic choice for beginners or sensitive horses.
- Rounded tip: rod with a foam end, soft but a bit more noticeable than a ball.
- Flat tip: flat surface, direct but non-pricking contact, appreciated in dressage.
With roller (roller): more precision
The roller is a small wheel that turns. Contrary to popular belief, a smooth roller or one with rounded studs like a “comfort roller” is not synonymous with harshness: it rolls over the hair and allows a more precise contact point, often better accepted than a fixed rubbing rod. Severity depends on the roller’s design, not just its presence.
Regarding level: a beginner favors a fixed tip (ball), which is more forgiving as long as the leg is not perfectly steady. An experienced rider, with a stable leg and controlled contact, can then choose the tip that suits them — with an important reservation in dressage competition (see below).
Rod length and branch shape
The shorter the rod (15-20 mm), the more discreet the spur: ideal for a reactive horse or a rider just starting out. A long rod (30 mm and more) or a gooseneck model (rod raised upward) seeks contact when the leg goes down low and the horse is thick — common in dressage. There are also hammer or angled rods to adapt to the rider’s morphology.
For dressage specifically, the Sprenger Balkenhol dressage spur — designed for the downward action of the leg and with refined finishing — is a reference in the discipline (you can find it in our selection below).
Properly position the spur
A good spur poorly placed pricks or remains inactive. Three simple guidelines:
- Roller or rod oriented downward (except for specific models designed otherwise): a raised rod pricks the horse instead of lightly touching it.
- Branch fitting the boot counterfort: well pressed against the back of the shoe, without moving.
- Height at the back heel seam: a spur mounted too high acts out of sync and pinches; too low, it remains inactive.
Attachment and straps
The strap determines the hold: a spur that pivots around the boot acts sideways and bothers the horse. A few guidelines:
- Leather: firm and durable hold, precise notch-by-notch adjustment — ideal for regular wear.
- Elastic / synthetic: more flexible and quick to put on, comfortable at the heel, but needs monitoring (wear, durability).
- Direction of tightening: the buckle closes towards the outside of the foot and the strap excess is directed backwards, so as not to bother or rub the leg.
- Adjust so the branch does not rotate: neither too loose (spur pivots and points incorrectly) nor too tight (discomfort, marking).
| Need | Choice track |
|---|---|
| Beginner / sensitive horse | Fixed ball tip, short shank (15-20 mm) |
| Precision seeking (experienced rider) | Comfort roller, flat tip |
| Long leg / fleshy horse (dressage) | Long shank, swan neck or Balkenhol spur |
| Heel comfort | Ergonomic "ultra fit" model, adapted straps |
Material (stainless steel, aluminum) mainly affects weight and price; aluminum lightens the set.
Regulations: stay cautious
Spurs allowed in competition — shank length, type of roller, orientation — vary by discipline and level, and regulations evolve. We prefer not to decide for you: the rules of your discipline specify the authorized spurs — check them with your federation (FFE nationally, FEI internationally) before an event. Note for dressage: the roller must be smooth/blunt and free to rotate, serrated or toothed rollers are prohibited, and roller spurs are not allowed in Club and Pony (FFE). A perfect model for training may be rejected in competition.
Our Spurs
A representative selection from our range, from the mildest to the most specific. Find the full collection in Spurs.
Protect the horse from spur contact
A "SafeHeel" type spur protector slips over the back of the heel and primarily protects the horse from spur contact: its soft lining covers the spur and cushions accidental contact against the horse's flanks, preventing injury or marks as long as the leg is not yet perfectly stable and independent. A good reflex, especially during training.
Also consider spur straps and belts suited to your footwear: they determine the hold and comfort at the heel.
Unsure about the tip or length?
Let's talk in person: we help you choose the spur suited to your level, your horse, and your discipline.
Make an appointment See all spursFAQ
Roller spur: is it harsher?
Not necessarily. A "roller comfort" roller (smooth or with rounded studs) rolls over the hair and offers precise contact often well accepted. Severity depends on the roller design and especially the rider's leg. To start or if in doubt, however, prefer a fixed ball tip. Caution in dressage: serrated or toothed rollers are prohibited, and roller spurs are not allowed in Club and Pony competitions (FFE).
How to position your spurs correctly?
Roller or shank pointing downwards (except specific models), branch pressed against the boot counterfort, and height at the back heel seam. A spur mounted too high or with an upward shank pricks the horse.
What shank length should I choose?
A short shank (15-20 mm) to stay discreet or for a reactive horse; a long shank (30 mm and more) or a swan neck when the leg goes low and the horse is thick, which is common in dressage.
Are my spurs allowed in competition?
It depends on your discipline and level, and the rules evolve. Check the official regulations of your federation (FFE, FEI) before the event: compliance remains the rider's responsibility.
From when can you wear spurs?
When the leg is stable and independent from the hand and seat. Before that, involuntary contact confuses the cues. Start with a soft tip (ball) and a short shank.
How to maintain your spurs?
Wiping after use is sufficient for stainless steel or aluminum. Regularly check the condition of the straps or belts and the smooth rotation of the roller if applicable.
