Choosing the right stirrups
If you are in the field of horse riding, you know what a stirrup is. In horse riding, stirrups are accessories that could be described as fundamental. Indeed, the smooth running of a horse riding activity generally depends on the stirrups. As for the choice of these accessories, they are mainly a function of the type of discipline that the rider practices. Here are some selection factors that will allow you to choose your stirrups well.
The main idea to have when choosing your stirrups
As highlighted in the introduction, the choice of stirrups should not be taken lightly. On the other hand, you should know that when choosing your stirrup, the simplest solution is generally the best. Rather light stirrups with a non-slip sole will lend themselves to the majority of uses in classical riding as well as in leisure riding. As for the shape or appearance, they are not very important. On the other hand, the material as well as the quality will be decisive. Indeed, a stirrup that breaks may be due to serious falls. These are therefore a few small factors to keep in mind.
The question of weight and that of price
The price factor is one of the most determining factors when choosing stirrups for the majority of riders. This is also why you benefit from better prices at La Sellerie Française. However, you should know that what determines the price of the stirrup is not its strength. It is rather its lightness. Stirrups that are very low priced are generally stainless steel stirrups. These are stirrups that are relatively heavy and they sometimes rust.
There are, however, calipers that are a little more expensive, but remain much lighter. For example, there are carbon fiber calipers that are both unalterable and have great resistance. As for the best quality calipers, they are made of aluminum and remain the most expensive. They are also the lightest calipers. There are also brass calipers whose best attractions remain their golden colors.
Safety stirrups
Have you ever heard of terrible falls or scenes of riders being dragged by their horse because their foot got stuck in the stirrup? To avoid such accidents, manufacturers have created so-called safety stirrups. The principle of these stirrups is based on the easy release of the foot in the event of a fall.
The outer branch on which the foot does not normally press is replaced here by a rubber which is removable and therefore comes off in the event of significant thrusts. In other models, this branch forms a notch so that the foot cannot get stuck.
Furthermore, to prevent the foot from sinking and getting stuck in the stirrup, you can use a foot-safe sole which usually forms a sort of shell at the front and thus keeps the foot in place. This is a removable sole that is also used in endurance because it remains ergonomic. It saves unnecessary effort on the foot as well as on the ankle.
The soles
Most stirrups can receive removable so-called non-slip soles. These soles are fixed between the knives and they generally adapt to the majority of classic stirrups. Removable non-slip soles exist in two colors. Black and white. They are available in the version of flat soles which are simply checkered, domed soles which promote the descent of the heels as well as wedge soles which are nevertheless used less and less.