Can you show in safety stirrups?
Safety stirrups are always a must-have, no matter which discipline you choose for you and your horse. Their purpose is to decrease the chance of serious injury by allowing the foot to release easier in case of an accident. Although most equestrians already use safety stirrups, many still wonder if you can show in safety stirrups.
The short answer is "yes," but you must choose your safety stirrups carefully: not all stirrups are approved for all disciplines, and product quality and reliability vary. Here, we will look at the topic of showing in safety stirrups in more detail.
Can you show in safety stirrups?
Yes, you can. But not all safety stirrups are suitable for all disciplines. So, if you show or plan to do so, you should be aware of the rules and regulations of your chosen discipline. For instance, there are major differences between showing in dressage and showing in showjumping.
Safety stirrups in showjumping
In showjumping, the main goal of the equestrian federations is to ensure the safety of the riders. So, safety stirrups are strongly encouraged, if not mandatory.
Showjumping is risky, and one of the most significant risks is falling off and getting caught in the stirrups. Another significant risk is losing your stirrups while riding. So, riders can choose safety stirrups that minimize both of these risks.
For instance, Ophena S are magnetic safety stirrups that the FEI approves for showjumping. They have a magnetic connection that decreases the chance of losing your stirrups while riding. Also, the open design decreases the chances of getting caught in the stirrups.
Safety stirrups for dressage
The rules and regulations are much stricter in dressage than in showjumping. This is because any extra aids are not allowed. For instance, magnetic safety stirrups are not allowed in dressage.
Ophena A is a safety stirrup without magnets. It features patent-pending technology, The Twister. It is a silicone piece that closes the outer side and releases when pressure is applied.
In dressage, safety stirrups that do not provide any extra aid are allowed.
Safety stirrups for eventing
In eventing, riders must consider dressage, showjumping, and cross-country regulations. Safety stirrups are also essential for eventers, and it is important to choose safety stirrups that increase safety.
Check the rules and contact your equestrian federation
Rules and regulations vary based on your chosen competition level and discipline. You should always check the updated rules by contacting your equestrian federation.
Also, so that you know, FEI regulations may differ from the rules of national equestrian federations.
Compare safety stirrup before purchase
There are many different kinds of safety stirrups on the market and they all have different features. Whereas some safety stirrups may be allowed in competitions, some may not due to their additional features. Also, some safety stirrups are allowed for certain disciplines but not for others.
This is why it's essential to compare safety stirrups before purchasing a pair and conduct some research to ensure that the stirrups you buy are suitable for your needs.
Get your safety stirrups at Ophena.com
Ophena stirrups are only available at Ophena.com. On our website, you can purchase Ophena S, and Ophena A safety stirrups.
Ophena S are magnetic safety stirrups that are suitable especially for showjumpers. They are also approved for FEI showjumping.
Ophena A is a safety stirrup without magnets. They are approved for all disciplines.
It is easy to purchase your safety stirrups on our website:
- Choose your stirrup style
- Choose the color (silver or black)
- Optional: Engrave your stirrups
- Add your shipping details
- Your stirrups will ship to you as soon as possible
The best part: you will get a 60-day money-back guarantee.
Questions? Don't hesitate to contact us!
