What type of stirrup iron for hunter pony?

Question

Right now I have peacocks, i'm growing too old for them and i like regular ones better. should I get fillis stirrup irons? Is that the "normal" iron for a hunter to use? my other Q, is right now my peacocks i measure about 4 3/4" on the inside, i like smaller ones, but to me 4 1/2" isn't much difference, do you think it's safe to get the 4 1/4"? here's the ones im looking at;

http://www.doversaddlery.com/product.asp?pn=X1-0725&bhcd2=1215903912

thanks!!

Answer 1

The main idea of the peacock iron is that it is a safety iron ment for the novice rider.  The idea being that if you happen to fall off and your foot becomes stuck the rubber band will break so your foot will become free.  If you can walk, trot, canter, and jump safely you have definately graduated out of the peacock iron.

The fillis iron is your all time classic iron.  It does not have any special features though like many of the more advanced irons on the market now a days.  You most certainly would not be marked down in a class with these irons.

However, there are many more styles out there that have used research to design an iron that not only looks good but its also benificial to the rider and aids in their comfort too.  These styles include ones that flex and give to relieve pressure in the ankles, knees, and hips. (Herm Sprenger has a line of flexible irons, royal riders italian iron, and the new MDC to name a few.)  They also have designed some that have a wider base or made from very lightweight materials (Royal rider italian irons) and ones that you can adjust the top of the iron so it is angled (MDC irons) so that if you happen to lose your irons, you can pick them up easier because the iron is angled outward rather then flush against the horses side.  They also have irons with "cheese grater" pads or metal or sandpaper grip so that it will lessen the chance of your foot slipping out.

If you are working with a budget the fillis are the least expensive models out there.  But if you do have problems with your knees, ankles, or hips hurting from the pressure I would strongly reccomend using one of the other models.  If possible try a friends pair out first before investing in your own.  They run about $100 and up.  

As far as the correct size, you want a quarter of an inch on each side of your shoe with your foot in the iron.  You do not want an iron that is too small otherwise your foot will constantly be stuck and too big you might get distracted from all the "wiggle room."