The humble stirrup has come a long way since it changed the face of warfare around the 4th century A.D. In more modern times, the market has been responding to the demand for more ergonomically-designed equipment with a wealth of innovations that make both competitive and recreational riding more comfortable and safer. We’ve chosen some of the current standouts.
SAMSHIELD STIRRUP SHIELD´RUP
Benefitting from years of research, the Shield’Rup is a stirrup combining safety, technicality, comfort and performance, wrapped in an innovative design. It features a twisted leathers slot that allows easy catching up and two versions of exchangeable treads – standard or extra grip with spikes – that are also inclined to achieve optimal stability and support. The elastomer seal under the tread offers excellent shock and vibration absorption. The lateral branch of the Shield’Rup opens in case of pressure during a fall and systematically returns to its original position. Made with aeronautical aluminium and a steel insert. Available in 6 colours.
samshield.com/en
LORENZINI STIRRUPS
Lorenzini GP (jumping) stirrups and Lorenzini Dressage Stirrups are made of titanium and solid aluminium with stylish features and an elegant design offering maximum strength combined with lightness and bio-compatibility while optimising the rider’s performance, stability and security in the saddle. Aerodynamic side struts and underside facilitate airflow and an inclined foot plate allows easy foot entry and release. Enlarged, knurled titanium footplate offers maximum grip and wear resistance. Rubber tread available for the dressage stirrup. Non-allergenic to prevent skin irritation on the horse. Available in a range of colours.
equiline.it/ca
JIN ANATOMIC STIRRUPS
The newest innovation from Jin Stirrup. Patented ergonomic foot bed offers stability to the rider’s foot which aids in natural rotation and provides additional support for the knee and ankle joints. The wide stirrup pad is inclined at 4° from back to front, which helps both grip and stability and distributes your weight over a greater surface area, increasing the circulation in your feet. Designated right and left stirrup to ensure maximum comfort. Available in a wide variety of colours as well as a specifically-designed dressage version.
jinstirrupcanada.com
SPRENGER SYSTEM 4 STIRRUPS WITH OFFSET EYES
The patented Herm Sprenger System 4 Stirrup with offset eye is the only stirrup which pivots in four directions: backwards, forwards and to each side. This improved flexibility relieves tension in the rider’s hips, knees, ankles and calves and softens the impact on cartilage and ligaments. Special treads adapt to your foot, ensuring consistent contact with the stirrup. Designed to significantly increase comfort and performance.
sprenger-uk.shptron.com
ACAVALLO OPERA STIRRUP
This stirrup is a completely new concept in riding due to its special patented loop construction which allows the stirrup to adhere to the saddle flap, avoiding friction between the leg and the stirrup, for a more correct, comfortable and secure ride. The large stainless steel stirrup pad gives riders better grip and relieves tension in the hips, knees, ankles and calves. Available in two-tone and bright colours.
acavallo.com
THE RAMBO® EASYUP STIRRUP
Winner of a Highly Commended BETA award in the Saddlery and Tack division, this stirrup’s lightweight, high-quality die cast alloy construction frame combines with a shock-absorbing nylon plastic footrest. An additional 6” leverage swings down for mounting your horse, removing the need for finding a suitable mounting block. Safety locking feature ensures non-deployment during use. The ergonomic design keeps the stirrup sitting optimally and features a shock-absorbent soft polymer grip for maximum stability and grip.
horseware.com/product/rambo-easyup-stirrup
ROYAL RIDER EVO ACTION STIRRUP
Royal Rider’s Evo Action Stirrup introduces a new shock absorbing suspension system to help maximize rider comfort and support while providing an elegant and sporty design. Made in Italy, the stirrup incorporates a spring and coil system at the stirrup leather placement that adjusts to the weight of the rider and is combined with the strength and flexibility of techno-polymer to smoothly distribute shock through the body of the stirrup. Complete with rubber and stainless steel “cheese grater” foot pads.
royalriderstirrups.com
ACAVALLO ARENA ALUPRO
Aluminum stirrup bow and opening arm are made of a special polyamide material that is less rigid than conventional materials. Allows absorption and compensation for sudden impacts exerted by the rider’s weight and provides relief for foot bottoms, ankles, knees and hips. Polyamide stirrup pad with tread fabricated from stainless steel. Features a unique, stress-actuated locking and release mechanism located between the pivoting stirrup arm and the foot support plate.
acavallo.com
Note: Products have not been tested by Horse Sport and while we strive to feature quality items, please check with your retailer regarding pricing and customer satisfaction.