Stirrups & Accessories: A Secure Footing and a Quiet Seat

Stirrups & Accessories: support for your foot

Stirrups & Accessories cover the link between your foot and the saddle. That includes the stirrups themselves, the stirrup leathers you use to set the length, non-slip treads for good grip and covers that protect saddle and irons in everyday use. Together they give you a stable seat and noticeably more security, both in the arena and out hacking.

Safety comes first

If a rider falls, the foot must not get caught in the stirrup. That is what safety stirrups are designed for: they open at the side or give way via a rubber band. A simple rule of thumb helps with a standard stirrup: it should be a little wider than the sole of your boot so your foot has some room. Sturdy riding boots with a heel also stop the foot sliding through. For children there are smaller stirrups that suit narrow feet.

Leathers, treads and covers

Good stirrup leathers stretch very little and lie flat against your leg. Models without a buckle under the thigh are especially comfortable on long rides. Rubber treads give your foot grip and can be replaced once they are worn. Angled treads help keep your heel down. Stirrup covers stop the metal leaving scratches on the saddle flap during transport or in the tack room.

Frequently asked questions

How long should my stirrups be?
As a starting point, with your leg hanging straight the stirrup should reach roughly to your ankle bone. For jumping you shorten them by a few holes, for dressage you ride a little longer. What matters is that you sit straight and balanced with both sides the same length.

When are safety stirrups worth it?
Essentially for everyone, but especially for children, novice riders, young horses and hacking. They release the foot in a fall and so reduce the risk of being dragged. Many experienced riders use them for hacking too.

Why does one leather stretch more than the other?
Because you usually mount from the left, so that leather takes more strain. Swap your leathers between sides now and then or use a mounting block. That way both sides stay the same length for longer.