When it comes to choosing Western tacks the quality of the material can make a big difference in how it looks and how long it lasts. Cowhide spur straps are a choice for people who like the natural look of leather and the unique style of Western gear.

From the feel of leather to acid-wash looks and special designs cowhide can give a look that is different from regular tacks.

What Are Cowhide Spur Straps?

Cowhide spur straps are made with cowhide. Are meant to hold spurs on riding boots.

Cowhide can have a feel and look that makes each piece different. Depending on how it's treated it can also have bright colors, prints, tooling or other special designs.

Why Choose Cowhide?

Natural Leather Look

Cowhide can have a real leather look that goes well with Western tacks.

Unique Feel

Unlike materials that're the same all over cowhide can have differences in texture and look. This can give a pair of spur straps personality.

Western Style

Cowhide fits well with boots and leather tacks making it a good choice for people who like a traditional or old-fashioned look.

Design Options

Cowhide can also be used with parts such as stitching, tooling, rhinestones, conchos and different types of metal finishes.

What Makes a Good Cowhide Spur Strap?

Just having leather isn't enough. Look at the design.

Leather Quality

The leather should be right for what it's used for and finished in a way that matches your taste.

Metal Parts

Metal parts are important for both how it works and how it looks. Antique nickel and antique copper finishes can give a Western look.

Fastening

Check that the buckle and the way it fastens are strong and easy to adjust.

Stitching

Good stitching helps make the whole strap stronger and better looking.

Finish

Cowhide can come in natural, printed, metallic, acid-wash or other finishes. Pick one that works with your boots and other tacks.

Cowhide vs. Regular Leather Spur Straps

Both can work well in a setup.

Regular leather gives a classic and simple look. Cowhide offers texture and visual interest.

Your choice might just be about the look you want.

Choosing Metal Parts for Cowhide Designs

Metal parts can change how a spur strap looks completely.

Antique nickel metal parts give a darker look while antique copper parts give a warmer Western feel.

When choosing metal parts think about the buckles and metal finishes you already have on your boots or other tacks.

Matching Cowhide Spur Straps With Tack

Cowhide designs can be a strong visual part so think about the rest of your gear.

If your headstall or breast collar already has a lot of decorations a matching strap may be better than one with a different pattern.

For a matching look look for similar colors, metal finishes or design parts.

Keeping Cowhide Leather Tack Clean

Like leather gear cowhide needs to be clean and stored correctly.

• Off dirt after using.

• Keep the leather away from too much wetness.

• Use the products for leather care when needed.

• Stay away from much heat.

• Check the metal parts often.

Final Thoughts

Cowhide spur straps can be a choice for riders who want strong leather with a more special Western look. Pay attention not to the cowhide itself but also, to the metal parts, stitching the way it adjusts and the whole design.

For cowhide, leather and decorated designs check out the MOUSM Spurs collection.

Frequently Asked Questions