Spurs were Y-shaped metal objects strapped to the heel. Spurs were used to drive the horse forward in battle. Stirrups were first used by the Chinese in the 5th century. Stirrups were made of leather and enabled the knight to keep his legs straight during battle. This held him securely in place while delivering or receiving blows. The Bayeux Tapestry shows all the Norman knights wearing spurs and using stirrups.