Steady in the saddle
Stirrups & stirrup leathers
Stirrups are part of the basic equipment of every saddle. You can find accessories such as matching stirrup leathers, inserts or pads in this category, as well as different types of stirrups to suit your needs.
Finding the right stirrup
The classic stirrup is made of silver stainless steelwith a black or white stirrup insert made of rubber or plastic. This type of stirrup is relatively heavy. This has the advantage that the rider can find the stirrup relatively quickly if they lose it while riding. Simple stirrups such as stainless steel stirrups are well suited for dressage because they are classically elegant.
Aluminium stirrups are significantly lighter than conventional stirrups. The slightly flexible material absorbs the rider's weight well, for example during light trotting, which is why aluminium stirrups are also suitable for riders with orthopaedic problems.
Plastic stirrups are available in many different colours. Stirrups made of plastic are super light, but also break under high loads. The advantage of plastic is its springy quality, which is very easy on the joints.
When should you use safety stirrups?
Safety stirrups are particularly suitable for show jumpers and cross-country riders. The advantage of safety stirrups is that the rider can free their foot quickly. There are various systems available:
Stirrups with a swivelling leg have a movable side that can be opened by applying pressure in an emergency. This part can be easily snapped back into place after use.
Stirrups with rubber rings are the classic, less frequently used version of the safety stirrup. The rubber breaks under load and the rider can free his foot quickly. The rubber ring can be purchased as an accessory and easily replaced.
Stirrups with joints are available with two or four joint pieces. These fold away in an emergency so that the rider can pull the foot out of the stirrup more quickly. The stirrups must be attached on the correct side, which is why the stirrups are labelled left and right. Another advantage of articulated stirrups is that they automatically bring the foot into a low heel position. In addition, the joint allows the tread surface to adapt to the rider's springy foot movement so that there is constant contact with the sole.
Stirrups with a cap are not often seen on show jumping or cross-country arenas. The front cap is designed to prevent the foot from slipping through, which can be an advantage for beginners in particular. This prevents the foot from getting caught.