Difference Between Western Spurs & English Spurs

Spurs do more than jingle and jangle. They help a rider gently cue the horse to move forward or laterally when under saddle. Western and English riding disciplines use spurs unique to their styles.

  1. Similarities

    • Both English and Western spurs are made of metal and come in pairs. They attach
      to the heels of equestrian riding boots. Spurs are worn with the neck, the area that usually comes in contact with the horse, pointing downward. Either type may have a rotating wheel, or rowel, attached to the end of the neck.

    Western

    • Western spurs are heavier than English spurs. They have a longer neck and a wider rowel to compensate for the Western rider's leg position. Western spurs are often decorated. Some Western spurs have chap guards, small hooks on the neck right in front of the rowel. The guards prevent the rider's leather chaps, or leg coverings, from getting caught up in the rowels.

    English

    • English spurs are less heavy than Western spurs, have a more refined design. They have a comparatively short neck, rounded or blunt on the end. Rowels are not used as extensively in English riding, but a few styles feature them.

    Attachments

    • Spurs usually attach to riding boots by leather spur straps. Some spurs attach directly to the heel of the boot.

    Other Than Spurs?

    • Native Americans used riding whips called quirts rather than spurs. Members of the cavalry assembled by Alexander the Great didn't use spurs, bits or stirrups.