Studs question?

JoBo

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Sorry didn’t know if this is better in here or comps but thought I would try here first.

Right basically I’m doing a XC open day next weekend and really want to use studs as I’m want to do some of the big ones, however I have to go down a gravel driveway from where the horseboxes are parked and also cross a single track tarmac road.

I have bought ones advised by the local tack shop, the ones for general use so they are a bit pointy.
So do you think Bodey will be ok on the driveway/ over the road or should I leave them out?
Oh and I’m going on my own, so would be difficult to put them on once on the grass, if that makes sense?

Thanks in advance, this whole stud thing is a new concept to me!
Jo
 
I'm sure you will be fine. It's not uncommon to have to cross a road going from the lorry park to the dr/sj/xc when eventing, and although I always feel a little bit anxious, it's usually the road that comes off worse! I'm sure the gravel track will be absolutely fine - usually find that the studs penetrate gravelly ground OK.

How many stud holes do you have in each shoe? Do you have them all round or just in the hinds?
 
If possible lead over the gravel/tarmac and mount when you're on the grass. Its not ideal but if it's only a short distance you'll be fine
 
A short distance is ok, sort of, but dont make a habit of it. Ideally you should only be putting them in when you need to use them and taking them straight out again after. Studs are not something you want to leave in for crossing roads etc.

Have you ever ridden your horse in studs before because i wouldnt advise a competition as the first place you ever use them.
 
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If possible lead over the gravel/tarmac and mount when you're on the grass. Its not ideal but if it's only a short distance you'll be fine

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Well I could but having a rolly, polly cob so my saddle can slip if I get on from the ground, mainly because I have to pull myself as not overly agile, should I admit that, he, he! So would be easier to get on from the box as have a step.
 
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Have you ever ridden your horse in studs before because i wouldnt advise a competition as the first place you ever use them

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Thank you for your advise. I promise I won’t make a habit of it, it’s the only place I know that I don’t go straight on to grass for the XC.

And no I haven’t but will have a go round the field at home tomorrow. The stud holes are a very new addition, kinda feels all grown up, he, he!
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Just a thought - for jumping I would normally use smaller ones in front particularly for a horse that tucks up neatly. Also makes it less of a nightmare going across a road because there is less imbalance across the front feet. How big are your studs? Pointy sounds good though, especially if the dry weather keeps up.
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Riding him with the studs in over hard ground really is unadvisable as the extra weight will put even more strain on his ligaments and tendons created by walking him over the road with them in.

As long as its a short distance, although i cannot recommend it, you should be ok just this once.
 
Well, the problem with studding is that it is such a compromise - security of footing vs putting the foot out of balance. Personally I would prefer the ones you linked to for softer ground - not sure what it's like with you, but the going is pretty firm round us at the moment.

Hard to tell from the pic, but I would prefer smaller ones in front, especially - I use these in front most of the year because they give grip but aren't too big - allow some movement on landing and avoid studding injury. I have used small road studs in front in the past - you'd be amazed the grip you get from them even on grass.

I usually have these behind as they offer a bit more grip. If it was bottomless going I'd use something bigger behind, but my horse is only 15hh so I really try to keep the studs as small as possible.
 
Meant to also add - welcome to the anguish that is using studs! I have arguments with myself every time I put them in, but then I'm paranoid about it!
 
Oh big thanks milliepops, that is really helpful! It’s not until next weekend so have time to go and get some of those. Bodey is only 15hh too, but a lump-age. The ground here is pretty hard at the moment but know that the XC has a good grass covering, and good take off and landings.

I will ask my instructor this week as well. Thanks again!
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When I’m jumping over 3ft around XC course on a cob, then yes I believe he does, we ain’t hanging around, and I don't want any slipping (that would hurt coming down on me).
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Just wondered thats all, (not saying this is the case with you)just that so many people seem to use studs because everyone else wears them and not because their horse actually needs them. The horses foot is very well designed for grip and studs can cause alot of damage to the horses limb due to concussion, particularly in front. If you do use them, It is vital to choose studs appropriate for the ground or there is an even greater risk of injury. The smaller the better. If the ground is that bad, slow down or withdraw!
 
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