A rowel is a small, spiked wheel at the end of a spur, used by riders to urge a horse forward.
Here's a breakdown of what a rowel is:
- Part of a Spur: The rowel is a component of a spur, which is a metal tool worn on the heels of riding boots.
- Function: It's designed to apply pressure to the horse's flank, encouraging it to move or increase its speed. The spiked or toothed design amplifies the effect of the rider's leg cues.
- Appearance: Rowels come in various sizes and designs, ranging from blunt to sharp, and with different numbers and shapes of points.
- Use Considerations: The use of rowels requires skill and sensitivity to avoid injuring the horse. Incorrect or excessive use can cause pain and potentially lead to resistance or behavioral problems in the horse.
In essence, a rowel is a rotating, often toothed, disc attached to a spur that is used to encourage a horse to respond to the rider's cues.
