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Studs & Accessories: More Grip for Shod Horses on Slippery Ground

On wet grass or slippery going, studs give your horse sure footing and you a good feeling in the saddle. Here you will find accessories for fitting studs.

Studs & Accessories: sure footing in the arena and across country

Studs & accessories are a topic for shod horses that work on grass, across country or in wet conditions. Studs are screwed into pre-drilled, threaded holes in the shoe and stop the horse from slipping. To make sure they sit securely and can be removed again, you need the right tools: a stud spanner, a tap for cleaning the threads and a case in which everything is neatly stored.

When studs make sense

Studs are mainly used in showjumping and eventing and at shows on grass. The softer and more slippery the ground, the larger the studs that are usually chosen. On hard ground or tarmac, on the other hand, they are unsuitable because they load the hoof unevenly. Screw the studs in only shortly before riding and take them out again afterwards. They have no place in the stable, in the field or in the trailer, because your horse can injure itself with them.

Caring for the threads and changing studs

For the studs to go into the shoe easily, the stud holes must be clean. Between uses, plug them with cotton wool or stud hole plugs. Before screwing in, clean the thread with a stud hole brush. Use the stud spanner to tighten the studs firmly and to loosen them again later. A stud box with compartments keeps studs sorted by size and the tools to hand.

Frequently asked questions

What size of stud do I need?
That depends on the ground, the discipline and the horse. On firm grass small studs are enough, while larger ones are chosen on deep, wet going. Start rather small and talk to your farrier or trainer about the choice.

Do I need studs in front and behind?
Many riders only use studs behind, because that is where the propulsion comes from. On very slippery ground, small studs are added in front as well. Your farrier will drill the stud holes where they make sense for your horse.

How do I protect my horse from injuries caused by studs?
With studs, a horse can tread on itself, especially on the heels and, when jumping, on the belly. Overreach boots and a stud girth reduce this risk. Also check before every ride that the studs are firmly in place.

Everything for fitting studs safely

When your horse is out on a showjumping course, across country or on wet grass, studs give it the grip it needs. To make fitting them before a ride quick and safe, you need clean threads and the right tools. A stud box with compartments keeps your studs sorted by size and has room for the spanner, cleaning brush and stud hole plugs. That way you reach straight for the right part at the showground and do not have to search while the clock is ticking. Clean the stud holes before every use and plug them in between, so that no sand or grit gets stuck. After riding, take the studs out again, because your horse can injure itself with them in the stable or trailer. With well-kept accessories, studs are a real help for sure footing on difficult ground.