Buckingham Universal Lower Straps

Buckingham universal lower straps replace the ankle straps on climbing spurs, holding the stirrup snug against your boot. A worn lower strap lets the spur shift on every step, so replacing it is basic spur maintenance.

What the lower strap does

The lower strap wraps over your boot and holds the spur stirrup in place under your arch. If it is stretched, cracked, or loose, the spur rolls and shifts as you step in, which costs energy and makes cut-outs more likely. Lower straps also take a beating from brush, mud, and saw chips, so they wear out well before the shank does.

Universal straps suit many spur models, but check the strap layout on your spurs before ordering. Gaffs and other spur parts are in our replacement gaffs and parts section.

Replace both lower straps at the same time, even if only one looks bad. Matched straps wear the same way and make it easier to set both spurs to the same tension so they feel even on your legs.

Fit and inspection

Thread the strap so it crosses the boot as the spur maker intends and cinch it snug without cutting off circulation. Wear sturdy boots with a defined heel and a stiff shank for spur work.

Inspect the straps and buckles each time you check the gaffs. Replace straps that are cut, cracked, dried out, or have elongated holes. Spur work belongs to trained climbers on removals, with a flipline or lanyard in place, under ANSI Z133.