Should I buy safety stirrups online?
When you buy a saddle, most of the time you will have to buy your stirrup leathers and safety stirrups separately. In this day and age, we tend to do many things online, including shopping for our tack.
So, it would only be natural to consider buying safety stirrups online - but is this what you should do and what other things should you consider?
In this article, we will look at how you can buy safety stirrups online and choose the ones that suit you best.
Buying your safety stirrups
There are many different types of safety stirrups out there. You can find flexible joint stirrups, peacock stirrups, magnetic safety stirrups, and many more, depending on what you're looking for.
However, as simple as buying stirrups may seem, not all stirrups fit everyone's needs.
When you are buying your safety stirrups, you have two options: you can buy them at a store or online.
Buying your stirrups at a store is very simple: you will get to look at the stirrups, ask questions, and even return the stirrups after trying them out if you decide they are not for you.
However, when you buy safety stirrups online, you should ask yourself a couple of questions:
- Will these stirrups suit my needs?
- Are they the correct color?
- Are they tested and safe?
- Can I return them if I don't like them?
Ophena has taken all this into consideration and this is why we have created our comprehensive FAQ-page, and you should also check out the post about most asked questions about safety stirrups.
And best of all, we have a 60-day money-back guarantee, so if for some reason you decide you don't want to keep your safety stirrups (which we doubt!), you can return your stirrups and you will get a full refund.
How to buy safety stirrups online
Buying safety stirrups online is not rocket science, but putting in some effort, in the beginning, can save you from unnecessary disappointments later on. Next, we will look at some useful things to consider when you buy safety stirrups online.
Consider the refund policy
After you decide to purchase your safety stirrups online and pick the model you want to buy, the first step is to read their refund policy.
That's right - don't rush to add your stirrups to the cart before reading their refund policy. You want to make sure that if you don't like your purchase, you can return them and get your money back.
After reading it and deciding that you agree, you can add your stirrups to the cart and complete your purchase. When your safety stirrups arrive, take some time to try them and test them out.
What if I want to return the safety stirrups?
In most cases, you must return the stirrups in pristine condition to receive a full refund. They have to have tags still and not have any wear and tear or dirt. In other words, you can't actually use them day after day and then return them (and expect your money back, anyway).
So treat your stirrups gently before you decide whether or not you are going to keep them.
Consider magnetic safety stirrups
Magnetic safety stirrups are the new trend on the market. Many companies manufacture different types of safety stirrups. Still, we at Ophena have created the best magnetic safety stirrups that ensure you will be released from your stirrups in case of an accident.
Our magnetic safety stirrups have a magnet at the bottom of the magnetic insoles (that are included in the price of the stirrups) and in the stirrup. They pull towards each other ensuring that you will always have your foot in the correct spot. Also, the open side makes it easy for your foot to release should you fall off. In order to prevent your foot from sliding out of the stirrup by accident, we have also equipped the stirrups with a foot stopper.
We understand that magnetic safety stirrups raise a lot of questions - this is why you can easily order your stirrups online with us, try them out and should you not fall in love with them, you can return them for a full refund.
Ophena safety stirrups introduced
Ophena has designed and manufactured three different safety stirrup models that have all received wonderful reviews and attention from both amateurs and professional riders.
Below, we have taken a look at each of our safety stirrup models.
Ophena S
Ophena S is our very first magnetic safety stirrup and it is also our most popular model. This beautifully designed magnetic safety stirrup features an open design for improved safety and a magnetic connection that keeps your foot in place at all times.
Ophena S also has a Smart Attach™-system, making it easy to attach and detach your stirrups to and from the stirrup leathers.
Ophena S Pro
Ophena S Pro is also a magnetic safety stirrup that has been designed for those who look for a better grip. These stirrups are perfect (for instance) for eventers and trail riders who are not afraid of a bit of rain and want to enjoy the best possible grip.
Ophena S Pro features all the same elements as Ophena S, and additionally offers an improved grip. The diamond grip decreases the chance of your foot slipping in your stirrups and provides improved confidence.
Ophena A
Ophena A is our newest safety stirrup addition to our product line and differs significantly from the other two. This is not a magnetic safety stirrup, but a regular safety stirrup which is approved for all disciplines and can be used by dressage riders as well.
Ophena A features patent-pending technology, The Twister, which increases the safety of the rider. The outer side of the stirrup is closed with a silicone piece that anchors at the bottom and at the top. It releases in all directions which allows the rider's foot to release easier in case of an accident.
Frequently asked questions:
Are there different stirrup sizes?
Yes, there are. Usually, you will find different stirrups for kids and adults. Remember, that you should have about an inch of room on both sides of your foot when placed in the middle of the stirrup.
Can dressage riders use magnetic safety stirrups?
At home, of course. However, at official dressage shows, magnetic safety stirrups are not allowed (with the exception of para-riders).
What are the best safety stirrups?
The best safety stirrups are the ones that suit your needs the best. There are multiple different kinds of stirrups out there, and you should consider what it is that you need from your stirrups. For instance, take into account the safety features, material, price range, and other elements.
Conclusion
Buying your safety stirrups online is tempting and easy - ensure that whatever kind of stirrups you order, you can return them and get your money back if you don't like them.