Horse Stirrups for Both English & Western Riding
Horse stirrups hang from the saddle, on stirrup leathers, for the rider’s foot to rest in. They help keep the rider comfortable and also help them mount. Although both the English and Western riders use stirrups their designs differ for each discipline.
English horse stirrup irons have evolved from the traditional Fillis iron to ones with easy release, jointed footbeds, offset and jointed designs.
Manufactured in varying grades of stainless steel, Fillis stirrup irons are the most traditional and are available in a range of prices. A Fillis iron’s classic appearance makes them popular in and out of the show ring.
Just as other pieces of horse tack have evolved, so has the stirrup. New stirrup designs have been made to benefit the rider’s comfort and position in the saddle.
Offset English stirrup irons and jointed stirrups irons are great examples. The offset stirrup iron places the eye of the stirrup skewed to the inside, not centered at the top, so the stirrup leathers lay flatter against the saddle, easing tension on the foot and ankle.
Jointed English stirrup irons have flexible sides, or branches, to the irons. These irons are able to flex with the rider’s foot and ankle and help to alleviate tension, absorb some shock and provide comfort to the rider's joints.
Quick release stirrups are intended to increase safety by preventing a rider's foot from being caught in the stirrup in the event of a fall. The most traditional form is the Peacock Safety Irons. This iron only has one branch or side and the other side is "closed" with a thick rubber ring/band. In the event of a fall, the rubber band breaks away and allows the foot to fall out of the stirrup. These stirrups are popular with riding schools, camps and beginner riders.
Western horse stirrups are manufactured in various shapes.
Western Bell 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.
Curved Western Stirrup are 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 stirrups can vary based on the discipline and trends of the discipline.
Oxbow Western Stirrup are used in general riding or showing. The oxbow western stirrup is another common western stirrup and are named for their 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.