Best Stirrups for 2022

Simply put, stirrups are a must-have riding accessory that can actually make a surprising difference to your time in the saddle. Not only do they improve your overall comfort but can enhance your performance too, especially if you select the ‘right’ pair. If you’ve done any research thus far you can see there’s quite a varied range – so it can sometimes be a bit confusing, especially if you’re not sure what you need. 

That’s exactly what we aim to help you with within today’s post – we’re going to break down our favourite stirrups at Just Equine – so you can make sure that you’re getting the perfect option for you.  

1. Flex On Stirrups

What we refer to as a “new generation stirrup”, these steel Flex On Stirrups can perform all the way to a professional level and are suitable for a whole range of activities – everything from eventing to just the casual ride out. 

The Flex On Ultra-Grip stirrup is a very popular choice of stirrup amongst mid to high experienced riders due to their use of “shock absorption technology” which in turn allows for a much smoother and balanced ride, as it helps to cushion the overall movements for both rider and horse. You can see that this type of stirrup comes in a whole range of colour options too, so you can suit it to your overall look and attire. 

With regards to build, you can see that it offers an inclining footrest that often gives a rider a more comfortable and sturdy feel. This is then layered throughout with crimped pins along a moulded plastic grip embraced with an “Ultra Grip” tread. All of this is built upon a tough steel framework, ensuring that they are “built-to-last”. All in all, a fantastic option and quite possibly our go-to favourite to recommend a rider on the lookout for a pair. 

Safe-On Stirrups by Flex-On

If you prefer a stirrup with the safety element then check out the Safe-On Flex Ons. Like the Flex-On stirrups above. These stirrups come with a soft outer arm that releases in the event of a fall. The arm simply pushes back over the retaining screw so that there is no need to carry a little stirrup tool in your pocket when riding. Overall a great amendment to what was already a great safety stirrup, with excellent safety precautions. Flex-On Safe-On Safety Stirrups UK

2. FreeJump Stirrups Soft Up Pro Plus

You might well have spotted these distinctive looking stirrups whilst out and about – these are yet another very popular style (and for good reason) these stirrups are known for their flexible arm, which helps to allow the foot to release in the event of a fall. With no requirement for tools to put back together, they will simply ping back into position with their quick release single branch technology. 

With one of the widest footbeds, these stirrups provide a great balance to the rider and in turn to the horse, creating a much smoother ride. Paired with small studs to keep your foot in a firm position. If feeling balanced, especially when jumping, is a struggle; then these are a great new option. 

With a clever angled stirrup eye, should you lose your footing the stirrup naturally angles away from the saddle – this is a lifesaver – should you need to get your foot back in an instance. 

Another great point to consider about these stirrups is their incredible shock absorption technology. Tried and tested, they are great for riders that suffer from knee pain or for ensuring they maintain the correct leg positioning for long periods of time. Shock absorption is not only great for the rider but also helps the horse too. 

These are a little higher on price range, however, they really have thought of everything and proven to be a top hit with amateur and top event riders. Why not try out and see what all the hype is about? They come in some funky colours too, so you can really let your wild side out. 

3. Tech Venice Safety Stirrups

If you’re not one for as much bling and panache – then these safety stirrups are a little more ‘traditional looking’; however far from traditional functioning. Available in classic silver and black or choose from the wide range of brighter colours for that wow factor.

The safety element of these works with a magnetic element at the top of the stirrup arm. Should a fall occur then the arm quickly releases from the top and simply closes back up, with no need for any tools. With the arm being magnetic it won’t come loose with general school work, it requires pressure from say a fall to open.   

Incredibly lightweight for metal looking stirrups, they are made from the finest lightweight aluminium, with an easy clean spiked tread. 

The new sloped version also offers a3 degree angled footbed to ensure you maintain the correct leg position and posture, but also reducing injury and strains, such as knee pain on long rides. These are a great option if this is something you suffer with after long rides. 

These would make a good all-round stirrup for the occasional hack or a 3-day event, these stirrups will ensure you stay safe and balanced.  

4. FreeJump Soft Up Classic Stirrups

Another safety stirrup with a very visible quick-release arm. These are known in the jumping world as being a top choice when choosing stirrups.  

Specially designed for women, there are many great aspects of these stirrups including a wide carbon tread with tilted studs, specially created to alleviate pressure points on the arch of the foot and encourages riders to keep their heels down.  

These stirrups have just gotten better and better, now with improved shock absorption. These are 3x more cushioned than a traditional stirrup, relieving pressure from both the rider’s joints and the horse’s back. – why would you ever ride in normal stirrups again?

5. John Whitaker Air Stirrup Irons 

A big name in the horse world, you know these John Whitaker stirrups are going to be good. 

A more traditional looking stirrup, yet these are anything but traditional. Created with the purpose to provide the very best cushioning for both horse and rider. With flexible arms and a large cushioned sole, these stirrups provide maximum absorption; for both horse and rider. 

These aren’t known as safety stirrups, but still have many elements that are to love and are one of your cheaper alternatives.

Choosing the right stirrup is not just about style and function, you also need to ensure that it offers the correct fit. You need around ½ inch on either side of your boot with the ball on your foot in the stirrup. It would be worth checking this before your first ride out. A great value option to consider. 

Of course, please do let us know if you have any questions about any of the horse riding stirrups that we have mentioned in the article (or any that we have in our whole range). The Just Equine customer services team will be more than happy to help you further – simply get in touch via our contact us page here.