In parts one and two of this multi-part blog series, we went over some of the most common and important pieces of equipment worn by rodeo cowboys. From belt buckles to a variety of other items, cowboys need to be properly stocked to ensure they're both safe and stylish during any rodeo event.
At A Cut Above Buckles, we're proud to be your one-stop shop for all custom rodeo belt buckles, including our Championship series and several others. In addition, we're happy to assist rodeo cowboys and many others with all their important needs for any event they're taking part in. Today's final entry in our series will look at a few additional items that should be considered for any rodeo event cowboy.
For both bronc and bull riding, flank straps are used to help the rider keep his grip and control on a bucking animal. The flank strap is applied to the bowels of a horse and, when tightened properly, is extremely effective at keeping a cowboy in place as he rides.
Despite some silly myths to the contrary, flank straps are not tied around the groin area of the animal, but rather the hips and stifles. If you're a cowboy competing in this type of rodeo, remember to never cross your leg over the flank strap!
Selecting the ideal flank strap involves more than grabbing any piece off the shelf. You should look for straps made from high-quality, supple leather for both flexibility and durability. The fit should also be adjustable, allowing you to get just the right tension without harming the animal. Many experienced riders recommend checking and adjusting your strap before every ride to ensure safety.
Roughstock events are straining and stressful on the body, and many cowboys will use tape to wrap their joints and limbs. Ankles, wrists, knees and elbows are common spots for athletes to apply sports tape to reduce the risk of injury during competition.
Rodeo Athletic Tape is a good option for cowboys looking for high-quality adhesive athletic tape that can withstand outdoor elements while still providing support or protection where needed. It's also available in a variety of colors, which can be used to help cowboys coordinate their outfits while still offering the support they need.
Competition in rodeo puts intense pressure on the joints. Using athletic tape helps prevent sprains, strains, and other injuries. Tape also offers confidence, as cowboys know they're taking steps to protect themselves. Plus, the extra support can extend a competitor's career by reducing the risk of long-term damage. Many pro riders have a routine for taping before every event, considering it as essential as their boots or hat.
In most bronc riding events, contestants bring their own saddles to use as equipment. The type of saddle cowboys bring with them will vary depending on the event and their personal preferences.
Having the right saddle can be the difference between staying on for eight seconds or hitting the dirt early.
Proper maintenance ensures your gear lasts through many rodeos. Regularly clean and oil your saddle, inspect it for signs of wear, and store it in a cool, dry place. Replace worn-out parts quickly to avoid safety hazards in the arena.
For those who compete in bull riding events, a rope and bell are necessary as equipment. This particular piece of gear is used as both protection and decoration during rodeo competitions.
Typically, this rope will be a 16-foot braided piece of polypropylene, with a bell at the bottom of the coil. If you're a bucking bull rider, this is equipment you should have, allowing you to maintain a solid grip for any bucking type event.
The bull rope gives the rider something to hold on to, and the bell keeps the rope from hanging up on the bull once the cowboy dismounts or is thrown. The weight of the bell helps drop the rope to the ground, minimizing risk to the animal and rider.
Always check your rope and bell before each ride. Look for worn spots, fraying, or other signs of damage. Ensure the bell is securely fastened. Proper care can prevent equipment failure and injury. Many riders also use rosin to add grip to their glove and rope, which helps maintain control throughout the ride.
Cowboys rely on more than the main equipment mentioned above. Below are a few more must-haves for anyone serious about rodeo:
While functionality and safety are top priorities, rodeo equipment also carries a sense of style and tradition. Each piece, from the boots to the hat, tells a story about the cowboy’s personality and career. Many competitors invest in custom gear with personal designs to stand out in the arena.
A well-prepared cowboy never shows up to an event without double-checking his gear bag. Here’s a quick checklist to review before heading out:
Packing ahead reduces stress and allows the rider to focus on performing when it matters most.
Rodeo has deep roots in western culture, but the gear has evolved over generations. Modern materials, improved technology, and athlete feedback have all contributed to safer, stronger, and more effective equipment. For instance, today's protective vests are lightweight and far more efficient at dispersing impact than earlier designs. Synthetic ropes have mostly replaced natural fibers, offering durability and consistency.
In addition, customization has flourished. Cowboys can now order equipment tailored exactly to their measurements, style, and type of event, giving them more confidence in the ring. These advances have made rodeo both safer and more exciting for participants and fans alike.
Every piece of gear a cowboy uses contributes to both safety and the experience in the arena. Whether you’re a competitor or a fan, understanding this equipment deepens your appreciation for the athletes and their craft. If you’re ever unsure about what gear you need for a rodeo, talk with experienced riders or connect with a reputable supplier.
For more on the equipment often kept and utilized by rodeo cowboys on a regular basis, or to learn about any of our trophy or championship belt buckles, speak to the pros at A Cut Above Buckles today.
