I’ve had my somewhat hot jumper for over three years. The first year I didn’t wear spurs or carry a whip, then I used both, but dropped the spurs for jumping. As I have figured her out more, it’s become clear she needs a spur and a whip, even over fences when she “ramps up” and I have been keeping the spur on for almost a year every ride, all ride. I have never had an issue with spur rubs, but in the last two weeks, she has developed rubs on both sides, worse on the side she leans on. They aren’t terrible, just hair rubbed off. No broken skin or swelling, but I feel awful.
I will say, she is pretty floofy this year in her coat, to the point where I clipped her for the first time this summer and am considering clipping her again now. And she has been quite quiet, even lazy, recently. I have a steady and educated leg, but I probably am nagging her a bit.
Aside from asserting myself more and getting her to respect the aids, I am interested in a spur that will minimize rubbing.
Which work best for that and aren’t too harsh for a hot horse? I’ve seen Waterford, Soft Touch and Rollerballs mentioned. Any favorites?
Thanks in advance!
ETA: I almost never use the whip, and maybe that is part of my problem. I mainly keep it in the hand she bulges out towards to keep her straight. I don’t actually hit her with it… although I have started to since the rubs.
