What's changing with the new LPO
With the latest changes to the performance test regulations (LPO), horse welfare is increasingly becoming the focus in German competition sport. From regulations that make it easier for older horses to enter the sport, to a limited number of tests that the youngest sport horses are allowed to take, to changes to the rider's permitted equipment, the new LPO requires attention before the next tournament start.

Which SPRENGER products are affected?
You ride with SPRENGER products and were wondering whether something will change for you?
With the LPO 2026, spurs with a toothed rowel are no longer allowed in shoow-jumping as well as dreassage. Apart from that, the spurs may be a maximum of 40mm long from the boot to the end of the neck. Formerly, this only affected show-jumping, but the rule now also applies to dressage tests. Pay attention to the information under the product name in our store! The length stated in the product name only refers to the neck length, not the length from the boot!

Alternatives to spurs with a sun wheel
If you’d like to stick with wheel spurs, we recommend spurs with a large ball wheel or spurs with a small ball wheel. Spurs with a Comfort Roller are also a good alternative; their wide, soft wheels are particularly suitable for sensitive horses with delicate hooves. Our ULTRA fit spurs fit perfectly to the boot and provide an optimal fit thanks to the Balkenhol loop. The ULTRA fit EXTRA GRIP models are additionally coated with high-quality rubber, preventing the spurs from slipping while also protecting the boot leather.
If you prefer a more precise application of pressure, we recommend spurs with a straight shank. The popular ULTRA fit models are also available in a SLIMLINE version for those who prefer a sleeker look. SPRENGER bootprotect spurs also feature an internal rubber lining that protects the boot leather and guarantees a non-slip grip.
Alternative to spurs over 40mm long
Are you super happy with the spur model from SPRENGER and they are just a little too long for the new LPO requirements? No problem, we offer all our models in different spur lengths, so you can also find your current model in a shorter version and don't have to switch to another pair of spurs. Of course, you can still use your current spurs for training.

New Bit Requirements for Competitions
A brand-new addition since the 2024 LPO is the Class S dressage competition. This is always ridden with a double bridle, as the rider’s proficiency with the double bridle is also to be assessed. As usual, Class S** dressage competitions must also be ridden with a double bridle. Also new is a Class S dressage horse competition; here (as with Class L through S* competitions), the competition notice may specify whether the competition is to be ridden with a snaffle bit or a curb bit.
The show jumping test, analogous to the show jumping horse test, facilitates the entry of older horses, aged 7 and up, into competitive sport in classes A* through M**. The rules applicable to these classes apply here.
New is the Acclimatization Show Jumping LP using the Clear Round scoring system for 4–6-year-olds. In this test, only single or double-jointed bits are permitted.
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