Stirrup Covers: Scratch Protection for Saddle Leather
When the saddle is not in use or is being transported, the stirrups are usually pulled up on the leathers. The hard edges and sharp metal treads of the stirrups inevitably rub against the soft leather of the saddle flap. To avoid permanent scratches, unsightly chafing marks, and dirt transfer, stirrup covers are simply pulled over the hoisted stirrups.
Materials: Fleece and Neoprene
The covers are usually made of soft, malleable materials. Covers made of thick fleece are the standard: They are very soft, gentle on the finish, and can be easily cleaned in the washing machine. Neoprene alternatives are extremely dirt and water-repellent, shock-absorbing, and are particularly suitable for muddy days when a lot of wet sand sticks to the stirrup treads.
Easy Handling in Everyday Life
A good cover must be easy to put on quickly without much fumbling. Most models are therefore cut like small bags and equipped with an elastic band or Velcro fasteners. They are simply slipped over the stirrup from below and tighten themselves with the elastic band at the top. This ensures they sit securely and do not slip, even during transport in the trailer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do stirrup covers fit on every stirrup?
Most covers are cut in a universal size and fit standard stirrups (width approx. 11 to 12 cm) without any problems. However, for extremely wide Icelandic stirrups or very large safety stirrups with bulky joints, you should look for correspondingly larger models.
How do you wash stirrup covers?
Fleece and neoprene covers can usually be washed in the washing machine at 30 degrees. It is important to brush out coarse sand and mud beforehand so that the washing machine is not damaged. Fabric softener should be avoided to protect the material structure.
Do you need covers for synthetic saddles as well?
Yes. Although the synthetic material of modern synthetic saddles is often more resistant to scratches than fine cowhide, the dirt and sand sticking to the stirrups can still roughen the synthetic saddle flap or cause stubborn dirt.
Functional Protection for Your Equestrian Equipment
Contact between metallic stirrups and the saddle flap inevitably leads to scratches during transport or storage. With easy-to-use covers, you can effectively protect the expensive saddle leather from chafing and dirt. The elastic band ensures that the bags sit tightly and do not slip.
Choose between soft fleece materials for everyday use in the tack room and water-repellent neoprene covers that reliably withstand even wet sand. The handy covers are a small but very effective investment in maintaining the value and appearance of your saddle in the long term.