Magnetic safety stirrups vs. regular safety stirrups - what's the difference?

In the past years, the importance of using safety stirrups has become even more apparent than before. Nowadays, most equestrians choose to use safety stirrups to maximize their safety and to decrease the chance of serious injuries. However, the difference between magnetic safety stirrups and regular safety stirrups still raises questions. So, what is the difference?

In this article, we will take a closer look at how magnetic safety stirrups differ from regular safety stirrups. 

What are safety stirrups?

First things first, let's look at safety stirrups. In short, safety stirrups are any kind of stirrups that have a safety mechanism that has been designed to release the rider's foot in case of an accident. 

However, the mechanism can be very different depending on which stirrup model or brand you use. Each manufacturer has their own safety mechanisms and they all have unique features. 

The main objective is that when the rider applies pressure onto the safety mechanism, it releases. The purpose is to ensure that the rider's foot does not get stuck in the stirrups should they fall off their horse. 

For instance, our Ophena A is a safety stirrup with patent-pending technology. It features the Twister, a silicone piece that attaches on two anchor points and releases in every direction when pressure is applied.

What are magnetic safety stirrups?

Simply put, magnetic safety stirrups are safety stirrups with a magnet. The magnet, however, does not directly work as a safety mechanism. Typically, magnetic safety stirrups have a safety mechanism to release the rider's foot from the stirrups in case of an accident, but in addition, it features a magnetic connection. 

For instance, Ophena S and Ophena S Pro are magnetic safety stirrups that have gained popularity in the past years. Both of these stirrup models feature an open design that allows the rider's foot to release in case of an accident. In addition, these stirrups have a magnet at the bottom of them, and the counterpart is in the insole of the rider's boot.

The benefit of magnetic safety stirrups is that the magnetic connection always keeps the rider's foot in the correct spot. Additionally, it increases the rider's safety by decreasing the chance of losing a stirrup while riding.

Magnetic safety stirrups vs safety stirrups

Now that you know the key differences, you may be wondering which one of these options is better. The answer to this one really depends on your objectives and goals as well as your discipline.

For instance, safety stirrups are encouraged in all disciplines, whether it is dressage, showjumping, or eventing. However, magnetic safety stirrups are not generally allowed in dressage, so dressage riders will have to only use them at home. 

Also, magnetic safety stirrups can, in some cases, help to improve the rider's posture, balance, and leg placement. They can even allow for decreased knee, hip, and ankle pain.

Are safety stirrups really necessary?

Yes, they are. No matter if you are a professional or an amateur, you should always use safety stirrups. After all, riding horses is a risky sport and you never know when an accident occurs. Sometimes, all it takes for a rider to fall off is for the horse to trip - nothing else. 

As we cannot control all the events around us, we should take all the possible safety measures to ensure that we stay safe when enjoying our ride.

In the video below, you will see what can happen if you get caught in your stirrups and fall off your horse. 

Get your safety stirrups at Ophena.com

You can get your own safety stirrups at Ophena.com. In our shop, you will find two kinds of safety stirrups: regular ones and magnetic ones. 

Our models are:

• Ophena A (regular safety stirrup suitable for all disciplines)
• Ophena S (magnetic safety stirrup best for showjumping)
• Ophena S Pro (magnetic safety stirrup best for showjumping and for those looking for extra grip)

You can order your own safety stirrups easily: choose your model and color and add it to cart. When buying magnetic safety stirrups, the magnetic insoles are included and you have to choose the size of your insoles before adding them to cart. 

Your new safety stirrups have a 60-day money-back guarantee - that's how much we trust that you will love your new stirrups.