I am still confused about the original need for spurs. Is it really required in some show setting? Or are you wanting to use them for training? Are you wanting to use them for more immediate response in the show ring? Not sure.
Trust me, I know the need for spurs....My stallion has little desire to put any pep in his step :) My inner thighs are probably like rocks from driving so often. I try to use my spurs as little as possible on him, but I like to have them there to enforce what I am asking for. I usually squeeze upper legs, lower legs, kiss and squeeze, kiss and spur. I to a tap not a rub, but four you it sound like you would not even want to tap, but just touch and hold for a second.
If your horses is already really light to your leg aids, I am confused as to why you would want to train with spurs...if she has energy in her forward and lateral body movement with plain leg - you might really try to limit any spur use. Maybe practice just a bit with them until she is used to them, and then have them there as back up at the shows to make sure you get your maneuvers just right. If you do ride in them sometimes, just be careful to keep them off of her most of the time.
In the winter, I tend to ride bareback and without spurs at all (seeing how I am in winter boots). I use this time to really focus on his response without spurs - and he usually does well as he is a little sillier and more animated in the winter (especially since he has been on a new complete feed - I love it :) )
Once again we need to relax. If you KNOW how to use spurs...why ask about them? I do not believe they are mandatory nor should they be. Everyone has their own opinions so lets not let it lead to arguments. I agree that spurs are training aids....but some people may believe different.
(let me know if I am being rude or pushy) (I don't mean to)!
Horse_luvere - - - you asked a question! Expect all answers. Don't be so rapid to accuse or think everyone is just saying your wrong or right, that doesn't matter. Everyone is giving their best advice to help you. No one is trying to be mean, including me. :roll:
I apoligize more myself and everyone else if you felt offended.
I said ....
"If your horse is very sensitive to your leg, you will only be punishing your horse by riding it with spurs, especially if you don't have the experience to do so."
I don't know how this was taken so out of context. I'm not saying riding a horse with spurs is punishment. They are valuable tools. It's punishment if you aren't experienced and you are using them on a sensitive sided horse. If you aren't experienced learn on a duller horse with help from someone who can teach you.
The point of the forum is to get a variety of opinions without always having to consult a pricey trainer. If you post on a forum and expect everyone to think the way you do, pat you on the back, or applaud you, then the forum is probably not the best way to go. I'm honest, and that's not going to change.
I've never heard that you're required to use spurs either. If your horse is very sensitive, get the smallest spurs you can possibly get. That way, if it is required, you can use them mainly for "show" purposes.
Look, the simple fact is you asked a question. It seems you don't like some of the answers you're given. Pat Perelli is a professional. He knows how and when to use spurs. You apparently do not know how and when to use them. Sorry you're not liking some of the answers. And as far as "some english classes require spurs," I don't know what state you live in, but in any english class (other than upper level dressage), spurs ARE NOT required. If you still insist that they are a requirement, please guide me to the particular resource/rule for us to look at and review for ourselves. I will gladly take back my statement if you can provide that proof. Otherwise, I think you're misinterpreting the rule.
:roll: 
