Q: What are the dangers of using studs?

A: Studs are very useful for competing, particularly in the country in eventing or on grass for showjumping. However, there are some dangers you should be aware of when using them.

Firstly, some horses can cut themselves (known as ‘speedi cuts’) or even stand on themselves with studs, so appropriate boots should always be worn. Stud guards can also be used to help prevent the horse from scraping his belly, especially if he is a particularly careful jumper who snaps his front legs up. You should also beware of leaving a horse standing in the box with studs in and no boots, as it is very easy for them to injure themselves when in a confined space with studs in place.

Secondly, you need to be aware of overstudding, particularly on hard ground. Avoid block-type studs or anything blunt in these conditions; a pointier stud will penetrate the ground more easily, and the concussive force on the horse’s legs and joints will be far less.

Finally, you must pay attention when your horse is cooling down after the cross-country phase. Often, we are quick to remove the tack and boots but leave the studs in until he has cooled down and been washed off. Instead, it is best to leave his overreach boots in place until the studs come out, especially if his blood is still up. This way, he has some degree of protection, but his legs can still cool down effectively.