Why Did Cowboys Wear Spurs?
Spurs are pieces of metal attached to boots, with end pieces that stick out. Some have just a dull point on each, and others have a rounded object called a rowel that sits on the end of each spur and sticks out and rotates.SteeringThe main purpose for spurs is to use them to help steer a horse while riding it. A cowboy would dig the spurs lightly into the side of the horse while also using the reins to steer.Quick StartsIf a cowboy wanted his horse to take off on a gallop, he would tap the horse with both spurs a couple of times to encourage it to accelerate quickly.DecorationSpurs also were used as decorations in social situations, similar to how jewelry is worn. Spurs are used for this today more often than during the 19th century.Status SymbolsSpurs also were used to denote the wearer’s social status.
