7 Best Safety Stirrups and How They Work

Many horse riders think that safety stirrups are for beginners and children, but the harsh reality is that none of us are safe from a fall.

At any moment we are subject to a fall, and getting a foot caught in a stirrup would make a bad situation worse.

Fortunately, there are several choices on the market for all ages and levels of equestrians.

How Do Safety Stirrups Work?

Should you fall off your horse (and let’s face it we all do occasionally!), safety stirrups ensure that your foot will not get stuck in the stirrup.

They do this by either having a breakaway part to allow the foot to “fall” out of the stirrup; a flexible joint, covered toe or curved design to prevent your foot becoming stuck or an open side with magnets to keep your foot secure but releasing in the event of an unintended dismount!

There are several different variations of a safety stirrup that will either release the rider’s foot or otherwise prevent it from getting stuck.

There is a multitude of styles for both English and western riders! Below we have created a list of the best safety stirrups you can buy.

What are the Benefits of Safety Stirrups?

• They increase the safety and peace of mind that your feet won’t get caught in the stirrups
• They lower the chance of being dragged by the horse if you do fall off
• There are now many options, styles and price ranges to suit your style, discipline and level of risk (dressage and endurance would generally be considered lower risk than eventing or racing)

Are There any Downsides?

• High quality and hi-tech products come with a higher price tag than traditional stirrups
• Curved edge and peacock stirrups can make it more difficult to maintain correct leg/foot position
• Some types may not be approved for use in the show ring or under FEI rules
• Fewer options available for Western riders

Read on for a brief overview of the different types of safety stirrup available in each category (peacock, breakaway, curved sided, magnetic, flexible joint, and covered toe) and their pros and cons.

Best Safety Stirrups for Adult Horse Riders

1. Ophena Magnetic Stirrup

Ophena has developed a stirrup that is as beautiful as it is functional. The open design ensures that your foot will not get caught in the event of a fall and the magnetic system securely holds the foot in the proper place.

Ophena’s revolutionary stirrup helps improve leg position and confidence. Compliant with FEI Showjumping, British Showjumping, USEF/USHJA Showjumping, and more.

Each pair comes with magnetic insoles that stop your foot sliding off the open side, and it also puts your foot in the correct place on the stirrup.

They also have a handy smart attach system that allows you to attach and detach the stirrups quickly and safely without having to completely remove the stirrup and leather from the saddle.

The Ophena is truly a one-off design that catches the eye and will have other riders wondering what they are. A good showpiece!

Why we like them:

• The magnet helps the rider to keep their foot in the correct place on the stirrup but releases in case of a fall
  Helps prevent rider “losing” a stirrup
• Lightweight
• A popular choice for jumpers and eventers

See more details here on the Ophena website. Also see our full Ophena review.

2. Tuff Rider

Peacock irons feature a large rubber band that is designed to release your foot in case of a fall. The rubber bands should be inspected before each ride and replaced at the first sign of dry rot or wear. These stirrups are affordable and the most popular choice.

Why we like them:

• Rubber band will release in the case of an accident
• Reasonably priced
• Stainless steel

3. Venice by Tech Stirrups

These stirrups use magnets to release a section of the stirrup and prevent being caught during a fall. Then a specialized spring ensures that the stirrup closes back to the original position. These stirrups come in an assortment of bright, stunning colors to match any tack.

Manufacturers have continued to improve the designs for breakaway stirrups so that they now “break” at a top or side joint when the rider’s weight is forced against it.

Why we like them:

• Release mechanism which allows the foot to slip out the stirrup in the event of a fall
• Huge variety of design, materials and colours available for all disciplines
• A wide selection of budget options
• Generally lightweight
• Popular with jumpers and eventers

4. Tough-1 EZ Out Western Safety Stirrup

Western riders may have fewer options, but EZ Out Western Safety Stirrup is a fantastic choice. They are spring-loaded and designed to release when pressure is applied during a fall. These stylish, lightweight aluminum stirrups come in both youth and adult sizes.

Why we like them:

• Rubber treads are stability and stop your feet from sliding around
• Stylish Western look

5. Free Ride Western Safety Stirrup

These stirrups were developed after a nasty fall left a rider injured and three miles away from the closest road.

Based on the Peacock irons, these stirrups are as functional as they are beautiful. Leather keepers and conchos over the rubber band provide a classic western look.

The keepers can also be customized! These western safety stirrups are also available in youth and adult sizes.

Why we like them:

• Hang at a slight angle for better contact
• Manufactured in the USA

6. Acavallo Arena Alupro

The Acavallo Arena Alupro features an articulated arm on the outside created with a high-tech combination of metal and polymer materials.

The extra-wide tread is suggested to provide support and relief to hip, knee, ankles, and calves. Available in a wide variety of colors.

Why we like them:

• Stylish classic look
• Stainless steel cheese grater stirrup base keeps your feet in place
• An off-center footbed (intentional) relieves pressure on your leg joints
• Very solid build that will stand the test of time
• Comes in multiple color variants

7. FreeJump SOFT’UP PRO Irons

FreeJump SOFT’UP PRO Irons – FreeJump have a range of stirrups including ones designed for women (Soft’Up Classic) and young people with smaller feet size (Soft’Up Lite) – features a gap between the top and a flexible outer edge allowing the foot to slip out in an emergency.

Why we like them:

• Superior leg position by pointing thee toe slightly inwards
• Advanced tread grip will keep boots from slipping

Final Verdict

Being safe in the saddle should be every rider’s top priority. Safety stirrups are a fantastic choice for beginners and advanced riders alike!

The stirrups on this list will help provide peace of mind while riding and will help keep a bad situation from getting worse.

If budget isn’t an issue, then we think the Ophena stirrups are the best money can buy. Super stylish, perfectly designed, and a brilliant riding aid. If you’re on more of a budget, Acavallo Arena Alupro Stirrup is a good mid-range alternative.

FAQs

See the Ophena’s here on their website: www.ophena.com