Before you strap on a pair of spurs, go through this checklist.

BY ABIGAIL BOATWRIGHT

ABIGAIL BOATWRIGHT

Spurs can seem like a ubiquitous piece of any horseman’s gear, but they’re not always necessary—or even desirable. Certified Horsemanship Association Chief Executive Officer Christy Landwehr shares her litmus test for incorporating spurs, with advice on proper usage.

1 Are you a new rider?

As a riding instructor, Christy strongly discourages inexperienced riders from using spurs.

“The lower leg of a new rider isn’t ready to use them, and they don’t have an independent seat and end up gripping with their heel and spur—this does the exact opposite of what you need to do,” says Landwehr.

2 Do you have an independent seat?

If you aren’t able to ride with an independent seat, you’re not ready for spurs, according to Landwehr.