What type of stirrups should I use?

Question

Here is some information about me:

-I ride english style and jump

-I am getting a saddle

-I usually ride quarter horses or thouroghbreds

-I kinda have a hard time keeping my heals all the way down. I keep them down, but not all the way. That is why my stirrups slip back. Same thing with my legs.(how you are supposed to keep them under your shoulder)

-I have a hard time balancing in my canter

-I have a hard time balancing when I go to kick

-I am a beginner

If anyone can find stirrups that are not too pricey, and are suitable for my needs that would be great. I'd like links please, but if you could describe or give a brand that would be great. Thanks!

Answer 1

Stirrup preference is really just a matter of choice. There are a lot of stirrups on the market now with lots of features. However, for a beginner I think you should just go with plain normal everyday stirrups. That way you learn to really ride. I can recomment the Korsteel brand. They last forever. I've had mine for over 20 years and they are still going strong.  

Answer 2

i use these:

http://www.doversaddlery.com/horse-s-joi...

and they're AMAZING!

more riding is really the only thing to help your heel/leg issues, but these just make it SO much more comfortable..

Answer 3

Since you ride large horses and might be going fast you might want quick release stirrups like these http://www.doversaddlery.com/product.asp...

it helps alot for if you fall you're foot will never get caught in the stirrup hope that helps

Answer 4

omg plz dont get a saddle i remember wen i got my saddle and didnt have a horse...now it is more of a coat rack and thts cuz it didnt fit all of the horses i rode perfectly so id really say plz dont waste ur money but IF u do get 1 then stirrups wont improve ur balance, heels etc that just comes with practice but i prefer the reg heavy weight fillis style stirrups because if u drop a stirrup then they are easier to find since they are heavier.

good luck! =]]

AA

Answer 5

I have the same problem with my heels. Those of us that compete in equitation know that's the first thing judges look for. I have a pair of MDC jointed stirrups which help me correct the problem. I paid about $45 for them at a local tack store. I think the jointed stirrups would help you out.

Answer 6

you should use brake aways

Answer 7

What breed you have doesnt effect your stirrup choice...anyways umm you should prolly ask your instructor for suggestions?? Otherwise, I would suggest a break-away stirrup, as you are a beginner & like it or not...falls do happen..better to not get dragged behind your horse when your foot gets caught in the stirrup id say...but go with what your instructor says :)

EDIT: The answer above says jointed stirrups...I didnt even remember those! I agree, they will prolly help you with your heels! See if you can find a tack shop that has a pair on a saddle & try them out first before you buy to see if they actually help you!!

Good Luck & welcome to the world of horses!! Its great isnt it??

Answer 8

Whatever stirrups you use, add these comfort stirrup pads that wrap around your stirrups:

http://www.doversaddlery.com/product.asp...

As soon as I got those, my leg position improved and I stopped losing stirrups.