Many English Spurs have two types of straps; Leather vs. Synthetic. Both straps are good, and it all depends on what type of riding you are doing. If you are doing low level dressage or Pony Club etc, then a synthetic strap would be best, they are all weather durable and you can chuck them around in your tack box without having to worry about oiling them. If you’re riding higher level dressage, show riding or hunter classes, then leather is probably the best choice. They have a classier look and often are more likely to match the colour of your boot, as they come in tan, brown and black. Like all things leather, regular oiling is needed. Leather however are less weather resistant, and if left un-oiled or left in the sun, can become dry and brittle. The spur will also wear more under the sole where the boot will rub against the spur, causing it to become thin in time. Western spur straps are much larger and bulkier looking than English straps. And often they have more detail to the design. Generally a Western strap is leather, though you can by synthetic straps. They have a bigger buckle compared to the English spurs, and often sizing is limited Whereas English straps can be used on children through to men sized boots. Western straps come in varying colours and patterns. They don’t have to match your boot colour; patterns can vary from thatched to woven leather and from silver studded all the way to fancier straps with crystals and gems. They require oiling and will need to be well taken care of, as English straps are generic, whereas Western spur straps are few and far between and only specialty saddleries stock them.
