Why are there different shank lengths on spurs?

Question

Rowl or ball. Why have different lengths? Excluding the fact of different company manufacturers.

Answer 1

Round "balls" at the end of spurs antagonize the horse more than a rowell does....

The shank length depends on the activity of the horseman....a long shank with rowell can be found in a WP class where very little foot movement is desired...takes only a very slight "twist" of the ankle to make contact with the horse, a very subtle cue.  

You'll find shorter shanked spurs on team ropers, tie down ropers, etc......those horseman stand in their stirrups to make their first "throw" to the steer or calf and do NOT want to make contact with their horse when they make their first throw....if they make contact, their horse will quit tracking on a steer or calf and "squirt" past the animal.   Not a good thing in a timed event.

http://www.dexterridingclub.com/dyk_spur...

http://antiques-internet.com/colorado/ru...

Answer 2

With some horses a small 8th inch is enough to get them to listen.  Where as there are horses that need a longer length to feel and move away from.  Some horses need the extra boost.  Also some people have weaker legs and need the extra length to get the horses attention. I think that sometimes with extra training to get your horse more tuned into you then you will not need as harsh of spurs.

Answer 3

It is mostly about choices, style, and money.  You will always find those who will believe that bigger, sharper, more viscious spurs and/or a bigger, harsher bit is better.  People who use harsh mechanical devices are trying to make up for their lack of ability.  They think they can "buy" something that will improve their "riding".  Few people I've seen even know how to use spurs properly.

Answer 4

It has to deal with the severity of them. Longer ones have more severity to them.