Stirrups: Safety, Stainless Steel and Aluminium Irons for Every Rider

Stirrups: stand securely, sit relaxed

A stirrup carries part of your weight and helps you stay balanced in the saddle. Here you will find classic stainless steel irons, light models made of aluminium and composite, safety stirrups that open at the side, children's stirrups and a special tölt stirrup for Icelandic horses. Spare parts, foot cages and safety clips for Fillis irons complete the range.

Safety stirrups, calmly explained

Falls happen to experienced riders too. A safety stirrup makes sure your foot does not get stuck in the iron when they do. Depending on the model, one branch opens, one side is closed with a rubber band or the stirrup is open at the bottom. For children there are also foot cages that stop a small foot sliding through at the front. That way you ride with peace of mind instead of constantly thinking about the worst case.

The right size and material

As a rule of thumb, the inside of the stirrup should be a little wider than the sole of your riding boot, so your foot has some room without sliding from side to side. The tread width helps when comparing models. Stainless steel is tough and long-lasting, while aluminium and plastic are lighter. Stirrups with shock absorption or a wide tread can ease the load on knees and joints, which many riders find comfortable on longer rides.

Frequently asked questions

What stirrup size do I need for my riding boots?
Stand in the stirrup wearing your riding boots: there should be roughly a finger's width of room on each side. With thick winter boots, the stirrup can be a little wider. Always try them with the boots you actually ride in.

What is the difference between Fillis and safety stirrups?
The Fillis iron is the classic closed metal stirrup. A safety stirrup also has a mechanism that releases the foot in a fall. For Fillis irons there are also clips that add extra safety afterwards.

Can a child use adult stirrups?
It is best not to, because a small foot can slide too far through. Children's stirrups are narrower and suit smaller shoe sizes. With a foot cage or as a safety stirrup, young riders get even more protection.