Are safety stirrups in dressage legal and what kind of stirrups should you get?
Every equestrian knows that safety stirrups are essential. The purpose of safety stirrups is to ensure and maximize safety and minimize serious injuries, and they should be used no matter the discipline. Because many safety stirrups include different features, many wonder if safety stirrups are legal in dressage.
In dressage, the use of tack has been outlined in detail in the FEI and national regulations. Today, we will look at if safety stirrups in dressage are legal and what kind of stirrups you can use.
Are safety stirrups legal in dressage?
First, it is important to note that the rules and regulations between national equestrian federations may differ. So, you should always read through the regulations of your own national federation to find out what is said about the use of safety stirrups.
However, going by the FEI rules and regulations for dressage, safety stirrups are generally allowed at dressage shows, although not every stirrup model is allowed. While the FEI wants to promote safety and security of riders, they are still aiming to ensure that all regulations regarding tack is clear. (Also, note that the FEI rules and regulations are updated every year.)
For instance, magnetic safety stirrups are not allowed in dressage, as they would be considered an "aid" for the rider (excluding para-dressage pending judge's approval).
However, an open branch safety stirrup is allowed at dressage shows (since 2019).
And, for instance, our new Ophena A safety stirrups are also allowed at dressage shows.
Ophena A: stylish safety stirrups for dressage
Ophena may have become a world-wide hit because of our innovative magnetic safety stirrups, but our new Ophena A safety stirrups are a cherry on top.
While our Ophena S and Ophena S Pro are sleek and modern magnetic safety stirrups that are approved by the FEI for showjumping, we wanted to create something that would benefit dressage riders, too.
Ophena A is a new safety stirrup that utilises The Twister: 360° double safety release technology (patent pending). The outer side closes off with a silicone piece that anchors in two release-points, allowing it to release in any direction when pressure is applied.
In the video below, you will be able to see how the Ophena A works:
Ophena A is allowed at dressage shows as well as in showjumping and eventing.
It has some excellent and unique features that are loved by amateurs and professionals alike:
- Patent pending 360° double safety release technology
- Highly functional geometry
- Integrated dampening, which makes the stirrup more flexible and shock-absorbing
- Manufactured from high-end materials
Should I use safety stirrups?
It may seem like checking the rules and regulations is a big and time consuming thing. You might even want to take the easy way out and buy non-safety stirrups just to be on the safe side.
While dressage is a more low-risk discipline than showjumping and eventing, accidents happen and there is nothing that can be done about it. Safety stirrups are an excellent way to minimise serious injuries, as they allow your foot to release from the stirrups in case of an accident.
Safety stirrups should always be used, no matter your discipline or experience level. As equestrians, we have to be aware of possible risks and do our best to minimise them.
What are magnetic safety stirrups and are they legal in dressage shows?
Magnetic safety stirrups are more than just regular safety stirrups. As you can guess from the name, magnetic safety stirrups have a magnetic connection. The magnets are placed in the stirrup and in the magnetic boot or insole, and they pull towards each other placing the rider's foot in the correct spot.
Note: Magnetic safety stirrups are not allowed in dressage shows.
Ophena has designed two magnetic safety stirrup models: Ophena S and Ophena S Pro.
Both of our magnetic safety stirrup models feature the following:
- Open design for easier release of the foot
- Magnetic connection
- Excellent treading for better grip
- Smart Attach™-system for easier attachment and detachment of stirrups
Our magnetic safety stirrups have received excellent reviews from our customers. Check our stirrup reviews.
Order your own safety stirrups with a 60-day money-back guarantee
You can order your own Ophena A safety stirrups online exclusively at Ophena.com. All you need to do is head over to our shop and choose Ophena A, choose the color, and add it to cart.
You also have an option to add engraving into your stirrups for a small extra cost. A cool engraving allows you to customise your stirrups and to stand out.
60-day money-back guarantee
All of our stirrups have a 60-day money-back guarantee. This means that, should you want to return your stirrups for any reason, you will get your money back - no questions asked.
However, our stirrups have over 1500 five-star reviews, so we are certain that you will love your new stirrups. Go ahead and take a look at our reviews to find out what others have said.
