StudFast ® proposes an alternative for riders to transition from traditional metal studs to lightweight and humane polymer-based studs. With the growing awareness surrounding the safety and welfare of human athletes in various sports having grown exponentially in recent years, parallels between the dangers of metal studs in human and horse sports become more evident.
The Dangers of Metal Cleats & Studs in Human Sports:
The use of metal cleats and studs in human sports (see Appendix 1.1) has long been associated with significant risks of causing severe injuries. This is not only to the wearer but also to other players on the field. Its sharp and rigid design can cause severe injuries such as lacerations, abrasions, and puncture wounds when players collide or perform slide tackles (see Appendix 1.2). As a result, many notable football leagues worldwide have taken proactive measures to ban the use of metal cleats and studs to prioritize player safety.
Appendix 1.1: Metal Football Cleats/Studs.
Photo by Premier Football (2023) via: Premier Football
Appendix 1.2: Leg Injury.
Photo by Sven Simon (2013) via: DW
By contrast, despite awareness surrounding metal cleats and studs in human sports being dangerous, traditional metal studs remain prevalent in horse sports. Although horses hold their own separate complex anatomy, both humans and horses are equally susceptible to injuries caused by metal studs.
Appendix 1.3: Example of a stud injury on a high-goal pony.
As shown in the illustration above, metal studs can lead to serious injuries as a result of overreaching lacerations, excessive hoof wear, and injury to other competitors.
Transitioning to Polymer Studs
As equestrians and horse lovers, here at StudFast ®, it is our moral responsibility to ensure the well-being of our horses. A more ethical, safe, and easy alternative, these lightweight studs significantly reduce the risk of injuries in horses and other competitors. Its design provides users with optimal traction without the risks imposed by penetration and sharp edges. In addition to this, its flexible and shock-absorbing properties can better support the horse’s natural movement.
Whilst understanding the many differences between horses and humans, it is imperative that moving forward we draw insight from the changes in human sports and implement similar safety measures within equine sports. Emphasizing the importance of safety in various equestrian disciplines will ensure the well-being of both athletes and horses is upheld to the highest standard without compromising their performance.
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