Spurs and Spur Straps: A Rodeo Buyer's Guide

Spurs and spur straps look simple, but the wrong pair or a cheap strap can cost you when it counts. Here is what rodeo and ranch riders should know before buying.

What the spur does

For rough stock riders, spurs help you stay hooked to the bull or bronc. For ranch and arena work, they are a cue and not a punishment, and a light touch is the whole point. Either way, buy a spur that matches how you ride.

Rowels and band

The rowel is the spinning wheel at the back. More points spread the contact and feel milder, fewer points feel sharper. Rough stock riders often run a specific bull spur built to grip. Check that the band is a comfortable width and shaped to sit right on your boot heel without pinching.

The strap matters as much as the spur

A spur strap keeps your spurs locked on through the whistle. Look for solid leather and clean hardware that will not slip. A worn or thin strap lets a spur turn or drop at the worst time, so this is not the place to cut corners. Rough stock riders want a strap built for the arena.

Fitting young riders

Junior and mutton bustin riders need their own smaller spurs and straps, not a hand me down adult set that slides around. A right sized rig is safer and actually helps them learn.

Quick checklist

• Match the spur to your event, rough stock or ranch and arena
• More rowel points feel milder, fewer feel sharper
• Band should sit flat on the boot heel without pinching
• Buy a solid leather strap with good hardware
• Size down for junior and youth riders

Shop spurs and spur straps in our Western and Rodeo collection, in adult and youth sizes. Putting together a full kit? Start with our rough stock gear checklist. Everything ships fast from a US warehouse.