Hepp Spurs

The thread must match the stud hole in the horseshoe. Hepp manufactures its studs in M10, M12 and 3/8 inch and itself recommends thread size M12. If in doubt, ask your farrier which thread has been used.

The correct tightening torque is important: according to Hepp, M10 and 3/8 inch should be tightened to a maximum of 20 Nm, M12 to a maximum of 25–30 Nm. The threads have cleaning grooves and clean the stud hole themselves when you screw them in, so a tap is not necessary.

On firm, hard ground you tend to use pointed, sharp studs, and on soft, muddy ground broad, angular shapes. As a rule of thumb, Hepp says: shorter studs in front, longer ones behind.

According to Hepp, the cone stud Type 3 (about 19 mm high) is suitable for hard, normal and soft ground. The short grass stud Type 32 (about 17 mm, with a tungsten carbide pin) is intended for hard and normal ground. The multipurpose stud Type 33 is a flat square stud of about 10 mm height and is not hardened. Young or inexperienced horses should be fitted with shorter studs.

The small Hepp stud case contains 16 hexagon studs made of hardened steel with a tungsten carbide pin and a spanner size of 14 mm, namely 8 of Type 27 and 8 of Type 32. It also includes a 14 mm socket spanner and a screwdriver.

The studs included are classic shapes with a maximum height of 17–18 mm, so they are more suitable for normal use than for deep going. Hepp offers the case in threads M10, M12 and 3/8 inch, so when buying make sure you choose the thread to match your horseshoes.

Studs should stay in the shoe only as long as necessary and should not be used permanently. Between competitions Hepp recommends closing the threaded hole with the blanking stud Type 1. This keeps the thread clean and gives the horse a more secure footing on the yard.

Check the studs regularly for wear, sharp edges and cracks and match them to the ground and weather. For horses with sensitive or problematic hooves, Hepp advises against the use of studs or recommends using them only under professional guidance.