About Barrel Spurs

Barrel spurs are intended for western barrel racing competitions. Barrel racing is a highly competitive, timed rodeo event in which the rider gallops the horse at full speed around three barrels in a cloverleaf pattern. If a barrel gets knocked over, a five second penalty is added to the competitor's total time. Barrel spurs encourage the horse to move around the barrels tightly and into the next pocket as fast as possible.

  1. Using Barrel Spurs

    • Barrel spurs are designed to persuade the horse to move around the barrels laterally because it facilitates quicker movement in a tight circle. The correct application of barrel spurs results in the initiation and execution of a direct movement from the horse, causing the horse to advance at the right time and place, and pushing it through the turn and forward quickly. Speed and accuracy are essential in barrel racing because any deviation in seconds or inches can cost the rider the race. Barrel spurs are tools to assist the rider, but should not be used as a substitute for the proper use of leg cues. When using the whole body and correct leg pressure to move the horse forward and at the desired speed, the barrel spurs should be used as a secondary aid to get the horse's attention.

    Barrel Racer Bumper Spurs

    • The wheel at the end of the shank, or "rowel," determines the severity of the barrel racing spur. Bumper spurs are typically the most popular among barrel racers, because they are mild, yet effective. They have a smooth or ridged bar that wraps around the boot's heel, as opposed to a shank and rowel. The rider uses heel pressure to push the horse forward instead of prodding with a more aggressive wheel, allowing for contact without rotating the foot.

    Barrel Winder Spurs

    • Barrel winder spurs are exceptionally mild. They are made without a rowel and have a blunt, yet softly ridged piece on the outer edge of the spur designed to prompt the horse's movement. Barrel winder spurs are lightweight and made of stainless steel. They clip onto the boot and can be bent to fit the rider.

    Barrel Racer Spurs

    • Barrel racing spurs may be designed with a rosebud rowel, which have tips that are flat and smooth instead of pointed, making them moderately severe. Other barrel racing spurs are made with pointed wheels, and generally have six to eight points, although some are designed with 16. The more points a rowel has, the more severe the contact is on the horse. Barrel racing spurs are intended to help the rider apply the proper leg position while maintaining balance, as well as for sharp turns and a strong finish. However, they must be used in combination with a rider's horsemanship skills, such as proper leg pressure, position in the saddle and use of the reins, not as a substitute to persuade the horse to obey. In addition, overuse of harsh spurs can create a dull horse.