What is a Western Spur Strap?
Western Spur Strap is a Leather strap that secures the rider's spurs to their boots in western horseback riding. Spur straps are widely used to secure and stabilize the spur position on their boots and help to prevent spur slippage, and give a precise application for aids, a method that riders use to communicate with and control the horse. This also improves the connection between the horse rider and horse by providing a clear and consistent signal. The spur strap wraps around the rider's boot and the spur’s heel band, ensuring the spurs stay in place while riding. Western Spur straps are used for several important reasons on horseback riding, especially in rodeo, barrel racing, and trail riding.
A Western Spur Strap is a leather strap used to secure a rider’s spurs to their boots in western horseback riding. It plays a key role in stabilizing the spur's position, preventing slippage, and ensuring precise application of aids—a method riders use to communicate with and control the horse. By keeping the spurs in place, the strap allows for consistent and accurate signals, which helps improve the connection between the rider and the horse.
The spur strap wraps around the rider’s boot and the heel band of the spur, holding it firmly in position during rides. Western spur straps are especially popular in rodeo, barrel racing, trail riding, and other forms of western riding where control, safety, and communication with the horse are crucial.
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Here’s how to store your spur straps properly between rides to keep them clean, functional, and ready for your next time in the saddle.
1. Clean Before You Store
Spur straps may not always look dirty after a ride, but they quietly collect dust, sweat, and grime, especially around the buckle holes and stitching. If left uncleaned, this buildup can lead to dried-out leather, cracking, or even mildew, particularly in humid or damp storage conditions. Taking a moment to clean your straps after each ride helps preserve their look, feel, and function for the long haul.
For Leather Spur Straps: Treat Them Right
Leather is a natural material that needs a bit of regular care to stay in good condition. After each use:
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Wipe them down with a soft, damp cloth to remove sweat and dust.
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Use a leather cleaner occasionally if you notice grime or salt buildup. Avoid harsh soaps—they can dry out the leather.
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Let them air dry completely before storing them away. Never store leather while it’s still damp—it can cause mold, mildew, or stiffness.
For added care, condition your leather straps once in a while with a leather balm or conditioner to keep them supple.
2. Use Saddle Soap Regularly
While a quick wipe-down after each ride is important, leather tack, including spur straps, also needs a deeper clean on a regular basis. Once or twice a week, take a few extra minutes to give your leather gear a more thorough cleaning with a good-quality saddle soap or leather conditioner.
Why It Matters:
Over time, sweat, dust, and dirt build up in the pores and creases of the leather. If left unaddressed, this grime can break down the leather fibers, causing stiffness, cracking, or even weakening the structure of the strap. Regular use of saddle soap helps:
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Remove deep-set dirt and buildup that a simple wipe can’t reach.
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Replenish lost oils that keep the leather soft, flexible, and strong.
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Protect against drying and cracking, especially in hot or dry climates.
Note: Regular deep cleaning—just once or twice a week—is a small step that helps your tack last longer, look better, and perform safely every time you ride.
3. Conditions to Prevent Cracks
Leather is a natural material that needs proper hydration to stay flexible and strong. Without regular conditioning, it can dry out, crack, and become brittle. To keep it in good shape, apply a leather conditioner or balm every 1–2 weeks, depending on how often you use it and the weather conditions. Just take a small amount of conditioner on a soft cloth and rub it into the leather using gentle, circular motions. Let it soak in, then wipe off any excess with a dry cloth. Be careful not to over-condition—too much moisture can make the leather too soft and weaken its structure.
Make Cleaning a Habit
Cleaning your spur straps after each ride only takes a minute or two, but it goes a long way in extending their life. Regular care means fewer cracked straps, less stretching, and better-looking gear every time you ride. Think of it as part of your cool-down routine for your tack.
4. Store in a Dry, Cool Area
Like all leather tack, spur straps don’t do well in heat, humidity, or direct sunlight. These conditions can dry out leather, cause it to crack, or encourage mold and mildew, especially if the straps are stored while still slightly damp. Even synthetic straps can weaken or warp over time if stored in extreme environments.
Smart Storage Tips:
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Avoid hot, sealed spaces like tack trunks, saddle bags, or trailers parked in the sun. These can trap heat and moisture, turning your storage area into a breeding ground for mold.
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Keep them out of direct sunlight. Sun exposure can bleach and weaken leather, especially around stress points like buckle holes.
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Stay away from damp or poorly ventilated areas. Basements or corners of barns without airflow can stay humid and musty.
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Improve your tack room environment. If you live in a humid area, use moisture-absorbing packets (like silica gel or charcoal bags) in your storage containers. For more consistent protection, a small plug-in dehumidifier can help regulate humidity levels.
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Choose breathable spaces. Climate-controlled rooms are ideal, but if that’s not an option, a shaded, well-ventilated shelf or tack hook works much better than closed compartments.
Proper storage helps preserve your spur straps’ shape, integrity, and appearance. It’s one of the easiest ways to avoid premature wear or having to replace them sooner than necessary.
5. Inspect for Wear and Tear
Spur straps may be small, but they take a lot of strain during rides, especially around the buckle holes and ends where pressure and movement are constant. Taking a minute to inspect them regularly can help you catch early signs of damage before they become serious.
What to Look For:
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Cracks or stiffness in the leather, especially near the buckle holes or ends.
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Fraying stitching that could cause the strap to come apart under tension.
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Loose or rusted rivets that might give out mid-ride.
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Worn or bent buckles that no longer secure properly.
Get into the habit of doing a quick check before every ride. It only takes a few seconds but can prevent discomfort, tack failure, or even accidents.
Why It Matters:
Riding with a damaged spur strap isn’t just inconvenient—it can be unsafe. A broken strap mid-ride could cause your spurs to shift or fall off, potentially spooking your horse or throwing off your leg cues. If you spot any damage, repair it immediately or replace the strap altogether. It’s a small investment in safety and performance.
Choose MOUSM
If you find a Western tack set collection, MOUSM is a great place to visit for. Here, you'll find a wide range of equestrian products, including headstalls, breast collars, wither and spur straps, bronc halters, saddles, saddle pads, bosals, as well as home décor and fashion accessories etc. Every piece is crafted from genuine Argentine cowhide leather and meticulously handmade by skilled artisans. Each design showcases exceptional craftsmanship, featuring intricate hand tooling, striking acid wash finishes, and eye-catching stonework.
Equipped with premium-quality studs, sparkling stones, and elegant conchos, these products are built to offer both durability and long-lasting performance. Their sturdy construction ensures they can handle the rigors of Western riding while maintaining their stylish appeal.
Perfect for Western riding, rodeo events, equestrian shows, and everyday wear, MOUSM pieces not only complement your gear with confidence but also add a distinctive and fashionable flair to your collection. Whether you’re in the arena or on the trail, these accessories combine functionality with stunning design, reflecting your passion for riding and your appreciation for quality craftsmanship. Shop Once! and Grab Amazing Deals and Discounts
