Choosing the Best Western Stirrups

Western stirrups are an important part of the western saddle that helps riders feel secure while they ride. Western rider’s knees and ankles can take a beating while riding. Today, there are Western saddle stirrups that provide a more therapeutic approach. Stirrups with different shapes, angles, and turners help the rider by absorbing shock or by allowing the stirrup to turn more easily accommodating various foot positions. Here is some more information about western stirrups to help you find the perfect pair for you and your horse.

Bling Western Stirrups: One of the most flashy and fun Western stirrups is the bling stirrups. These stirrups make a bold and personalized statement with their vibrant colors and designs. Bling western stirrups are adorned with materials such as rhinestones and crystals in patterns and designs sure to catch the eye.

Western Bell Stirrups: These western stirrups are suitable for general Western riding or showing. The western bell stirrup gets its name from its shape as they are shaped much like a bell. They are the most common western stirrup. Mostly constructed of wood covered in a light metal that is left plain but they can be constructed out of wood, metal, or plastic. If the stirrup is used in the show ring the metal can be decorated and engraved.

Curves Western Stirrups: These are western barrel stirrups used by reiners, trail riders, ropers, equitation riders, and barrel racers and come in many variations. In addition, they might be angled to provide rider comfort. They can also be angled a certain way to be safer for the rider. These western barrel stirrups can vary based on the discipline and trends of the discipline.

Oxbow Western Stirrups: These western stirrups are used in general riding or showing. The oxbow western stirrup is another common western stirrup and is named for its round shape. Not suitable for long rides as the footrest is very narrow and will fatigue the rider. The oxbow stirrup styling can vary from plain to very ornate.

Western stirrups come in safety varieties to help release the rider’s foot in the event of a fall. Western safety stirrups are engineered to release when a rider comes off to prevent them from being dragged. One such design includes aluminum western safety stirrups with a spring-loaded outside branch. In the event of a fall, pressure is applied to the outside of the stirrup which makes it open all the way, releasing the foot. Other Western safety stirrup designs include a rubber ring that stretches from the top of the stirrup to the bottom, creating a quick release if the rider falls. Additional options include a tapadero western stirrup, also sometimes called the "hooded" stirrup, named by the leather cover that goes over the front of the stirrup. The tapadero won’t allow the rider's boot to pass through the stirrup and get caught.

Frequently Asked Questions About Western Stirrups

How do you choose Western stirrups?

When choosing a western stirrup, choose one that will fit you, match your discipline, and match your saddle. For example, if you mainly want to barrel race you should buy western barrel stirrups. Do some research on what stirrups are acceptable in your discipline before you invest in a pair.

How to measure western stirrup? How long should my western stirrups be?

To measure for a western stirrup, put your hand on the fender and pull the stirrup towards you. The bottom of the stirrup should be in your armpit. Another way to check is while you are mounted. Your western stirrups should be long enough to touch the middle of your ankle when you drop your stirrups and straighten your leg.

How wide should western stirrups be?

A western stirrup’s width should be the width of your foot plus an inch. In other words, when your foot is in the stirrup there should be about half an inch on either side.