Magnetic Safety Stirrups · Safety Stirrups · Tack · Tips ·Sep 18, 2025

The 6 Best Stirrups of 2025 (Tried-and-True Picks Riders Actually Love)

The stirrup game has changed a lot over the past decade. Safety systems have become the norm, grip technology keeps evolving, and brands are experimenting with everything from shock absorption to magnetic connection. For riders, that’s great news—but also a little overwhelming when you’re trying to choose the right pair.

In this article, we’ve pulled together six of the most talked-about stirrups of 2025. They all bring something unique to the table—whether that’s cutting-edge safety, unbeatable grip, or joint-saving comfort. We’ll go through what makes each model shine, where they have trade-offs, the price range you can expect, and even which colors they come in.

1) Ophena S – Minimalist Safety with Magnetic Connection

The Ophena S has built a big following thanks to its unique approach to safety. Instead of a closed ring, it has an open side design combined with a magnetic system: you slip magnetic insoles into your boots, and the stirrup gently holds your foot in place. The open side means there’s nothing to trap your foot in a fall, while the magnet makes it almost impossible to lose your stirrup mid-ride.

Pros

Open side design for reliable safety
Easy pickup thanks to magnets (no more fishing around after a fence)
Subtle, sleek look
Approved for FEI showjumping

Cons

Requires using magnetic insoles (included, but an extra one time step)
Grip is good, but not as aggressive as some riders might want

Price range: ~€339
Colors: Silver, Onyx Black, Rose Temptation

Best for: Riders who want safety, stability, and ease of use without an aggressive tread.

2) Ophena S Pro – Safety + Grip for All Conditions

The S Pro takes everything from the Ophena S and turns the grip up a notch. It uses a diamond-pattern aluminium tread combined with the magnetic connection, giving a super secure foothold even in rain or mud. It’s especially popular with eventers and showjumpers who ride in tough conditions.

Pros

Same safety as Ophena S, with added grip
Stable platform for powerful riding
Optional stronger magnets on your insoles for heavier boots
Approved for FEI showjumping

Cons

Grip can feel “too sticky” if you prefer to move your foot around
More expensive than the S

Price range: ~€439
Colors: Silver, Onyx Black, Rose Temptation

Best for: Riders who want maximum traction and stability in all weather.

3) Freejump Soft’Up Pro+ – The Flexible Arm Pioneer

Freejump helped start the modern safety stirrup movement, and the Soft’Up Pro+ is still a favorite in 2025. It has a single-branch design with a flexible outer arm that bends to free your foot if you fall. The wide footbed with steel studs gives good grip, and there’s built-in shock absorption that helps with long courses or long days in the saddle.

Pros

Proven safety system with flexible outer branch
Wide, cushioned tread with grip
Loads of color options
Well-tested at top sport levels

Cons

Release mechanism is only on the outside branch
Elastomer footbeds and studs can wear and may need replacing

Price range: ~$395–$450
Colors: Multiple combos including Black, Navy, Green, Pink, Pearl, and limited editions

Best for: Riders who like the feel of a cushioned, single-arm stirrup with lots of style choices.

4) Flex-on Safe-On – Customizable Comfort with Safety

The Flex-on Safe-On combines shock-absorbing elastomers with a safety arm that releases in a fall. Riders love it not just for comfort but also because you can customize almost every part: frame, elastomers, stickers, and even footrest style. It’s one of the most personalizable stirrups on the market.

Pros

Noticeable shock absorption for knees and ankles
Safety arm adds protection
Tons of customization options
Choice of flat or inclined tread

Cons

So many choices can make ordering complicated
Composite frame can scuff with heavy use

Price range: ~$330–$399
Colors: Fully customizable (frames, elastomers, footbeds, stickers)

Best for: Riders who want comfort, safety, and a stirrup that matches their exact style.

5) Rid’Up Safety Stirrups – Detach to Release

The Rid’Up stirrup takes a very different approach: instead of a flexible or open arm, it uses a patented system where the stirrup detaches from the leather if you fall. That way, your foot can’t get stuck at all. The treads are designed for stability, and they have a modern, lightweight look.

Pros

Unique leather-release safety mechanism
Prevents dragging in the event of a fall
Lightweight composite build
Modern, sleek design

Cons

Safety depends on the detachment working properly (a very different system to get used to)
Less variety in grip options compared to others

Price range: ~$250–$300
Colors: Usually Black, Grey, and a few accent options depending on the retailer

Best for: Riders curious about alternative safety systems beyond flexible or magnetic designs.

6) Acavallo Arena AluPro – Practical Safety at a Lower Price

For riders who want safety without spending €400+, the Acavallo Arena AluPro is a solid option. It has an aluminium frame with a polyamide opening arm that releases under pressure and snaps back after. The tread is stainless steel with mud-shedding slots, and it comes in multiple colors.

Pros