How do you know when it is time to buy new safety stirrups?
All of us equestrians need to update our tack on a regular basis. After all, nothing lasts forever. No matter how much money you spend on your tack, eventually, all the wear and tear will require you to go out with the old and in with the new. This is especially true when it comes to tack that can cause safety issues (or in other words, save your life), such as safety stirrups.
So, how do you know when it is time to buy new safety stirrups? We will look at the matter a bit more carefully in this article.
Inspect your safety stirrups
As a responsible rider, you should inspect your tack on a regular basis. For instance, you should look for signs of wear and tear on your stirrup leathers, reins, girth, and so on. It is important that all your tack is pristine at all times, as otherwise, you might experience safety issues.
For example, a snapping stirrup leather in the middle of a Grand Prix course could cause some serious accidents. Also, we have seen a rein break more than once, even at big-time horse shows.
Inspecting your safety stirrups on a regular basis is equally important. In most safety stirrups, there is an opening mechanism of a sort: for instance, a hinge, or a rubber band (for instance, peacock stirrups).
So, your job is to check the stirrups and make sure the safety mechanism works as it should. Over time, rubber bands can dry out and snap, and hinges can rust.
Check your safety stirrups in the following way:
- Visually inspect the stirrups for any breakage or fractures
- Check the safety mechanism by opening it by hand: apply pressure on the mechanism and see how easily it opens
- Check the stirrup pads and grip
When it is time to buy new safety stirrups
When it is time to buy new safety stirrups, take a look at Ophena's super popular Ophena S and Ophena T magnetic safety stirrups. They are beautifully designed, innovative safety stirrups that you will not see anywhere else.
The open side ensures that your foot will always easily be released from the stirrup in case of an accident. The foot stopper, on the other hand, ensures that your foot will never slide out of the stirrup. And of course, the magnetic connection keeps your foot always on the correct spot.
Ophena magentic safety stirrups have gotten many five star reviews for their wonderful and unique design and excellent safety mechanism. If you wish to buy your own, this is how you do it:
- Choose whether you want Ophena S or Ophena T stirrups
- Choose the size of your magnetic insoles
- Add your product to cart
- Finalize your purchase
Your safety stirrups will be mailed out to you and you will receive them in a few days. The best part, though, is that you have a 60-day moneyback guarantee, so should you ever want to return your stirrups, you can do so easily.
Conclusion
It is important to inspect your tack, including safety stirrups, on a regular basis. At the end of the day, stirrups and other tack experience wear and tear. Making sure that your tack is always in good condition is one of the most important things you can do for your safety.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if I notice wear and tear in my stirrups?
If you notice wear and tear in your stirrups upon inspection, it may be time to purchase new stirrups. You can always replace your rubber pads and bands, but do not compromise your safety: if the stirrup's safety mechanism is broken or ineffective, get new stirrups.
What kind of signs should I watch out for?
You should watch out for cracks in the stirrup. These are more possible and visible in plastic stirrups. Also, check the safety mechanism and make sure it unlocks easily. If it is too difficult to open or the mechanism is otherwise ineffective, it is a sign that it may be time to get new stirrups.
What are the best safety stirrups?
The best safety stirrups suit your purposes, have a good safety mechanism, and are made to last. Check out Ophena S, which is made with stainless steel.
