How-To · Tips · Training ·Jan 13, 2023

How do you know if stirrups are too short or long?

Ensuring that your stirrups are the correct length is essential because if your stirrups are too long, you risk losing them during the ride and if they are too short, you will find yourself in all sorts of pain afterward. So, how do you know if your stirrups are the correct length?

Today, we will provide useful tips for measuring the correct stirrup length and ensuring that your ride will be as comfortable as possible.

Why is the correct stirrup length essential?

If you have ever ridden with stirrups that are too long or too short, you already know how uncomfortable it is. And not only that, riding with stirrups that are the wrong length can be dangerous and increase the risk of falling off.

Stirrups that are too long

If your stirrups are too long, you will not be able to press your heels down or take any support from your stirrups. There is also an increased risk of losing your stirrups, which can lead to accidents and dangerous situations. You will also notice that it will be harder to use your lower leg, post, or stay in 2- or 3-point seat.

Stirrups that are too short

On the other hand, if your stirrups are too short, you will instantly feel discomfort in your knees, ankles, and even lower back. You will end up leaning too far forward which will put your balance point off as well and make it harder to be soft and flexible with your hands. Stirrups that are too short will also place your lower leg in the wrong spot and you will feel your heels being pressed too far down.

Stirrups that are correct length

When your stirrups are the correct length, you can easily post, sit down, use your leg, and you will feel in control and have a good balance. In other words, the correct stirrup length can make a huge difference in your riding experience.

How to measure the correct length

Measuring the correct length for your stirrups can take some practice. Also, it's good to note that the length of the stirrups should also change depending on your discipline.

Good stirrup length for dressage

Stirrup length for your stirrups should be a bit longer for dressage compared to showjumping. Generally, the stirrup length for dressage should be a hole longer than your ankle. You should be able to easily press your heels down and post while keeping the leg long and being able to sit deep in the saddle comfortably.

Good stirrup length for showjumping

Showjumpers shorten their stirrups much more than dressage riders. This is because they need to be able to get up to 2- and 3-point seat easily and move with the horse as the horse jumps over the fences.

As a rule of thumb, your stirrups for showjumping should be two holes shorter than your regular length for hacking and trail riding, for instance. This will allow you to press your heels down, keep your lower leg close to the horse, and move with the horse easily and in balance.

Good stirrup length for hacking and trail riding

A good stirrup length for hacking and trail riding is the middle road between your dressage stirrups and showjumping stirrups. You should feel comfortable in the saddle without feeling any pain in your joints, and able to keep your heels down and post without trouble.

Magnetic safety stirrups can decrease the risk of a serious injury

Regardless of the discipline you choose, you should always use safety stirrups because they decrease the risk of a serious injury in case of a fall.

Our magnetic safety stirrups Ophena S and Ophena S Pro have received excellent stirrup reviews from our customers. We have heard our customers report increased safety, improved balance, and better confidence, focus, and posture. In addition, the magnetic connection keeps the rider's foot in the correct place and decreases the chance of losing the stirrup during a ride.

Ophena S and Ophena S Pro are best suited for showjumpers, hunters, eventers, and trail riding, and they are also approved for FEI showjumping.

Ophena A is our non-magnetic safety stirrup that is suitable for all disciplines, especially dressage riders who cannot use magnetic safety stirrups at shows. Ophena A has integrated dampening, making the stirrups flexible and shock-absorbent.