Spur Sizing Guide
A spur is a training aid, not a shortcut for leg position. Choosing the right length, material, and rowel type helps you give a clear, fair aid instead of a sharp one. This guide explains how to choose a spur and how to fit it. The Size option on each Sprenger spur and spur strap lists the sizes available for that model.
Before you choose a spur
Spurs work best with a rider who already has a steady, independent leg. If you are new to spurs, or your horse is young or green, it is best to build the leg aid on its own first, before adding a spur.
Choosing spur neck length
Spur length depends on the gap between your lower leg and your horse's side. A rider with a smaller gap can use a shorter spur. A rider with a longer leg, or more distance to the horse's side, needs a longer spur so the leg can stay still and quiet.
A swan-neck spur curves upward. It shortens the effective reach further, which suits a rider who needs extra length in the boot but less length at the point of contact.
Your horse's temperament matters too. A calm horse can usually accept a stronger spur than a sensitive or highly reactive horse. A horse in a heavy coat change often does better with a softer spur, or one with a wide rowel, until the coat settles.
Rowel types explained
A rowel is the small wheel at the end of the spur neck. Whether a spur feels sharper with a rowel or without one depends on the individual horse and the exact design, so there is no single rule that applies to every horse.
As a general guide, on a spur without a rowel, a narrower and sharper-edged neck end gives a stronger effect. On a spur with a rowel, a thicker rowel gives a softer effect, and a serrated rowel gives a stronger effect than a smooth, rounded one.
A rowel should always turn freely. Check and clean it regularly, especially when your horse is changing coat, since loose hair can jam the rowel and cause an injury.
How to fit a spur
Fit the spur so the neck sits level, pointing back toward your horse's side, held snugly in place over the boot by the strap.
Choose a rounded, not-too-long spur while you are still learning to use one. A shorter, blunter spur is easier to control and less likely to catch your horse by accident.
Some stainless steel spurs, including the Ultra Fit and Ultra Fit Extra Grip ranges, can be adjusted slightly by bending them to match the shape of your boot.
Choose a rust-resistant material, such as stainless steel or German silver, with no sharp edges. A rough or poorly finished spur can mark your horse's side or damage the leather of your boot.
Spur strap length
Most spur straps are 45 cm long. A small number of styles are also available in 50 cm. Check the length shown on the product page before you order, since the strap needs to reach comfortably around your boot with room to spare for the buckle.
Spur and stirrup rules for competition
Spur and stirrup rules differ between disciplines, including limits on spur length and rowel type, and they can change at any time. Before you compete, check the current rules for your discipline, for example the FEI rules or the British Dressage rules, to confirm that your exact spur and stirrup are allowed.
