Stirrups are used to help hold the riders foot in place whilst in the saddle and increase their stability. Browse the complete range of horse riding stirrups at EQ Saddlery today. 

Horse riding stirrups, in their simplest form, are light metal frames that are attached to the saddle with a stirrup leather. Stirrups for saddles, are used to help the rider mount their horse and to hold the rider’s foot in place while they ride, therefore increasing their ability to stay in the saddle and control the horse’s movements.

Many kinds of stirrups have been developed to help us ride our horses. Horse stirrups come in a variety of materials such as aluminum, plastics and stainless steel. Stainless steel is the traditional choice of stirrup as they are traditional, popular and affordable.

Aluminum stirrups are the modern variation of stainless steel. They are made using a particular type of aluminum that helps absorb shock which offers optimal stability and a perfect connection with the mount.

Over the years safety stirrups or quick release stirrups, have become increasingly popular, especially in those who jump their horses regularly. Quick release stirrups were designed with safety in mind. The stirrup allows the rider to free his or her foot easily, reducing the risk of being dragged by the horse by preventing the foot from becoming caught in the stirrup during a fall.

What size stirrup is best for me?

A correctly sized stirrup should be about 2.5cm wider that the rider's boot. When your foot is in place, you should 1-1.5cm of space on either side of your boot. While you don’t want your boot to fit too tightly to your iron, you also don’t want your stirrup to be too broad. This could allow your foot to slip and you may struggle to keep your stirrups in the correct position on the balls of your feet.

What size stirrup leathers do I need?

When selecting stirrup leathers, correctly choosing your sizes allow you to make the proper length adjustment for the length of your legs and your riding discipline. Another consideration when choosing stirrup leathers is to match the colour with the colour of your saddle.

At EQ Saddlery we have a variety of stirrups irons including stirrups made from stainless steel, aluminum and plastic and alloy composites.

Stocking the world’s most trusted equestrian brands, we have a wide selection of Stirrup irons and stirrup leathers from makers such as Flex On, Jin Stirrup, Acavallo, Zilco, Horze, Composti, Bates, Lumiere, Wintec and more!