Compare safety stirrups before you purchase
Before buying any new tack, you should take some time to compare different brands and their features. For instance, by comparing safety stirrups before you make your decision, you will ensure that you acquire the kind of stirrups that suit your needs the best. In this article, we will look at what elements you should take into account when comparing safety stirrups.
Research before making a purchase
Especially when purchasing safety equipment, it is important to make sure you get the best possible quality. After all, riding horses comes with its risks, and all equestrians should be aware of them and take reasonable precautions.
Today, there are many different types of safety stirrups on the market, each with their own unique features and design. While one stirrup might be excellent for someone, you might need something else for yourself. For instance, dressage riders might need a different type of stirrup compared to showjumpers.
After you have established the kind of safety stirrups you want, it is recommended to do some surfing on Google and to read reviews and dive into the features of the safety stirrup.
Which elements are important in safety stirrups?
When you are purchasing your new safety stirrups, you should look at the following elements:
- The release mechanism
- Material
- Weight
- Price
- Reviews
As we are discussing safety stirrups, one of the most important things to take into account is the release mechanism. Here is also where you will often see the most differences between brands. Some brands use, for instance, a hinge mechanism that will open when pressure is applied. Others, for example peacock stirrups, use a rubber band on the side. We, on the other hand, have placed a completely open side on the outside of the stirrup, which ensures the release of your foot in case of an accident.
The material also plays a big part. It also determines the weight of the stirrups. For instance, a heavier stirrups, such as stirrups made of stainless steel, can be a great choice for showjumpers, as they are easy to control and snatch back to your foot should you lose it while jumping.
Ophena manufactures the magnetic safety stirrups using titanium, that is also found in the aerospace industry, as well as stainless steel. This choice of material makes our stirrups both light and durable (check out the differences between Ophena S and Ophena S Pro).
In addition, you should set a budget for yourself. When you invest in good quality stirrups, they will last a long time, and ultimately, keep you safe. Remember, that you get what you pay for.
After you have narrowed down your choices, take a look at what other equestrians have to say. Read the reviews and see what jumps out. Ultimately, you have to choose the kind of safety stirrups that work for your discipline and preferences, but it does not hurt to see what the reviews of others say.
Need help?
If you'd like to know more about our magnetic safety stirrups, we are happy to help. Don't hesitate to contact us - we will get back to you soon! Also, remember to follow us on Instagram.
