Ideally we all would like to enjoy our horse or pony every second of the day. Go on trail rides, train for an upcoming competition or simply around the stables. If you want to keep on doing so, taking care of your horse is the first step, however, let's not forget about ourselves! Safety and the use of proper tack and accessories play a large part in this. It might not be the first thing you think of, but the right stirrup can make the difference.
Safety first
We´ve all been there: your horse is spooked, throws you off balance and down you go. More often than not you´ll walk away with nothing but a few bruises. At Sprenger we´d like to keep it that way. A simple fall can have disastrous consequences if you get stuck in your stirrup. And there´s no denying: it can happen to anyone. Not just during a competition, but also during a trail ride in autumn. Thankfully, there’s a large collection of stirrups with a safety mark. There are several options, there’s a rather simple model which functions with an elastic band which will break loose, however stirrups have additional features to ensure safety. By choosing an advanced model you’ll improve both your well-being and your safety.
Solid footbed
Another detail to keep in mind when choosing a stirrup is its footbed or stirrup pad. Whilst riding you put more pressure on muscles and tendons than you might when you are simply walking. You're balancing your entire weight on just the ball of the foot, the part that is supported by the stirrup. If you want some extra comfort you might choose a stirrup that has a wider footbed. This will not only even out pressure distribution but will also give you increased grip.
Depending on the activities you do with your horse, or the conditions in which you ride, it might also be wise to use a stainless steel stirrup pad. By replacing the rubber pad you reduce your chances of slipping off your stirrup during jumping on rainy weather.
Sprenger offers two models which have flexible pads, the
Bow Balance and the
Flexcite. Flexible pads help keep your heels down and reduce the pressure on ligaments and cartilage.
Still leg position
Did you know that choosing the right stirrup can help you keep your lower legs in place? The
Sprenger Flexcite has a slightly heavier topside, which helps you keep your legs still: perfect during a dressage kür. Additionally, the topside is slightly curved, which makes it easier to reposition your foot should you lose your stirrup.
Knee troubles?
Do you often develop knee or ankle pains during riding? We already mentioned the issue: your joints experience a lot of pressure during riding and this can result in aches and pains. By choosing a flexible stirrup the pressure is distributed more effectively and absorbed as well. Sprenger uses a unique technique called 'System 4'. The name gives it away: the stirrup can move in four directions.
Tips for extra safety (no matter which stirrup you use):
- Clean your stirrups regularly to make sure the safety system actually functions
- Your foot should never fit through the stirrup
- Never use damage stirrup straps
- Check the stirrup bar before riding
- Use flat shoes when riding
- Wear a safety helmet
JRS is an international wholesaler of several high quality equestrian brands in the Benelux. Equestrianism is a sport which is developing at high speed and JRS seeks to encourage these changes. Its goal is to share knowledge and guarantee quality by maintaining a connection between manufacturer and horse and rider stores. Check out www.jrsport.nlfor more information.