Technical stirrups - What You Need To Know

The concept of technical stirrups is pretty new. A lot of us old-school riders really like the more basic, classic-style stirrups but I've been lucky enough to enjoy some of the more modern designs through my riding and teaching business.

And although I might favor a more basic style of stirrup, I do appreciate what the more modern designs have to offer.

What are the benefits of technical stirrups?

Technical stirrups, also known as safety stirrups, are designed to provide additional safety and comfort. Here are some of the benefits of using technical stirrups:

• Improved safety: Technical stirrups are designed to prevent the rider's foot from slipping out of the stirrup, these stirrups have a wider footbed and extra grip that keeps the foot securely in place.

• Improved safety II: Many technical stirrups have a breakaway mechanism or similar system that prevents the rider's foot from getting caught in the stirrup in the event of a fall.

• Reduced strain: Technical stirrups have shock-absorption qualities that can help reduce the impact of the rider's weight on the horse's back and can also be beneficial for riders who suffer from joint pain or other conditions that make riding uncomfortable.

• Better balance and stability: Technical stirrups are often designed to help the rider maintain a stable position in the saddle and keep their leg in place ensuring a more secure ride.

• Enhanced performance: Some technical stirrups are designed to improve the rider's performance by providing a more secure and stable base from which to ride.

Overall, technical stirrups can help improve safety, comfort, and performance for riders.

FreeJump SOFT'UP PRO Plus Stirrups

The Freejump Soft Up Pro Plus Stirrups are a high-end safety stirrup designed to provide maximum comfort and safety for riders. I've had the pleasure of riding multiple horses in these stirrups, I found them to be nicely balanced and lightweight.

Features:

1. Shock-absorbing system: The stirrups feature a unique elastomer sole that helps to absorb shock and reduce pressure on the rider's joints.

2. Wide footbed: The large footbed provides a stable base for the rider's foot, reducing the risk of slipping or losing the stirrup.

3. Non-slip grip: The stirrups have a non-slip grip on the footbed, which helps to keep the rider's foot in place.

4. Lightweight design: The stirrups are made from lightweight material, which reduces the overall weight of the saddle.

5. Customizable appearance: The stirrups come in a range of colors to match the rider's preferences, even pink!

Freejump Soft Up Pro Plus Stirrups are a premium option for riders who want a high-quality, comfortable, and safe stirrup for their riding adventures.

Pros: leading innovator in this design of safety stirrup, break-away system that makes them safe in the event of a fall, unique design.

Cons: very tricky to run them up the stirrup leather and have them stay there, they will scrape your saddle if you're not careful.

FreeJump Stirrups

RoyalRider Sport Stirrups

The Royal Rider Sport Stirrup is a high-performance stirrup designed for riders who demand the very best in terms of comfort, safety, and performance.

Here are some of their key features:

• Lightweight design: The stirrup is made from lightweight material, which reduces the overall weight of the saddle.

• Wide footbed: The stirrup has a wide footbed, which provides a stable and secure platform for the rider's foot, reducing the risk of slipping or losing the stirrup.

• Non-slip grip: The stirrup has a non-slip grip on the footbed, which helps to keep the rider's foot in place.

• High-quality materials: The stirrup is made from high-quality material, ensuring durability and longevity.

• Tread inserts: Every pair of stirrups includes an extra pair of non-slip rubber pads.

• Stylish design: The stirrup has a sleek and modern design that is sure to turn heads in the arena.

Pros: nice and lightweight, I love the wide footplate with cheesegrater grips.

Cons: be careful not to scrape the leather of your saddle when running them up.

Royal Rider Stirrups

Gatsby Hinged Stirrups SS 5in

I thought I'd add these to the line-up as they seem quite a popular choice and I see people riding in them a lot.

The main feature of this design is the flexible hinge which is supposed to angle a rider's heels down and reduce stress on joints.

From seeing people ride in these stirrups and often teaching them I have to say I can't say I'm a fan of the design.

I find the average rider ends up hyperextending their ankle and the overall result is that this mechanism moves their leg forward into what I refer to as the 'armchair' position.

• Stainless steel construction: The stirrups are made from high-quality stainless steel, which is durable and rust-resistant.

• Hinged design: The stirrups have a hinged design that allows them to pivot and move with the rider's foot.

• 5-inch footbed: The stirrup has a 5-inch footbed, which provides a stable platform for the rider's foot.

• Non-slip grip: The stirrup has non-slip tread on the footbed, which helps to keep the rider's foot in place.

Pros: solid durable design, a bit heavier than most stirrups, nice for riders who prefer a heavier design

Cons: I don't like the leg position that the flex feature creates

Gatsby Hinged Stirrups

My Own Personal Stirrup Set-up

I enjoy riding in the new stirrup designs, I can't fault their safety features and other innovations.

My own stirrups are more simple though. I have a pair of Thorowgood plastic stirrups that I've used for years, wrapped in Super Comfort Stirrup Pads.

They give me enough grip and comfort, coupled with the lightweight stirrups for me to be confident at any height, even when jumping Grand Prix classes.

Super Comfort Stirrup Pads

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