Safety stirrups – what are your options?

Flex-on Safe-on safety stirrups review — Fex On-Stirrups - Sam Jennings

(Image credit: Andrew Sydenham/Horse and Hound)

The best safety stirrups are designed to release your foot quickly and easily in the event of an accident. There are a variety of designs and release mechanisms available. The most common are shaped irons and breakaway stirrups with mechanical or flexible arms.

Shaped irons – stirrups with a distinctive bend have been designed to help prevent the foot from becoming caught in the event of a fall. If you aren’t keen on the full breakaway effect, this style of stirrup can offer some reassurance and is usually much cheaper than the breakaway style.
Breakaway stirrups – some designs have a flexible or mechanical outside arm that releases the foot when put under a specified amount of uneven pressure in the event of a fall, while others are designed to release from the stirrup leather completely. Many designs also have features associated with the best technical stirrups, which has resulted in a wide range of price points.

Based on the design for Flex-On’s Green Composite Stirrup (featured in our guide to the best technical stirrups), the Safe-On has shock-absorbing and ergonomic features and can be customised in the same way. The outer branch is designed to open in the event of a fall when at least 40kg weight is exerted on it – and can quickly and easily be re-attached using a tool supplied. They are also available in a junior size (for riders under 40kg).

If you’re looking for a budget safety stirrup with an arm release mechanism, these stirrups are likely to be the cheapest you’ll find. The opening system features a flexible arm that releases under pressure, helping to free the foot in the event of a fall. The wide footplate provides excellent grip and stability, making these stirrups suitable for both kids and adults. While they are slightly heavier than some alternatives, their durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.

These stirrups are a fantastic mix of clever design and rider-focused functionality. The wide footbed isn’t just comfortable — it really helps you get your heels down, which is such a bonus for training or long rides. Shaped with the rider in mind, they’re designed to ease joint stress, support your leg position, and give you a secure grip. The smart-release mechanism with its flexible arch is a great safety feature, snapping back into place effortlessly. Plus, the junior size option means younger riders (UK2½ and below) aren’t left out.

These stirrups are a great choice for riders seeking a blend of safety and comfort. The inner branch is fixed, while the outer open branch can bend open to easily release your foot in the event of a fall. They also offer a high degree of shock absorption – the stirrups flex at the lower inside bend of the stirrups, which absorbs shock travelling into riders ankles, knees and hips in addition to the shock travelling across the horse’s back.

These high-strength anodised aluminium stirrups feature flexible arms that release the rider’s foot in any direction when dismounted. The 180-degree outer arm movement and wide, 5°-inclined fibreglass-reinforced tread with dual-grip elements offer maximum support and security. Shaped for correct leg positioning, the stirrups also have shock-absorbing, replaceable pads for joint protection and comfortable riding.

These stirrups are all about combining comfort, safety, and practicality. The footplate is angled at 5°, which not only feels natural but also helps keep your foot secure, while the grippy surface and cushioned layer absorb impact to reduce strain during your ride. The clever twin balance arch system spreads your weight evenly, and the 45° outward angle makes it so much easier to find or recover a lost stirrup mid-ride.

The Karben Ultra Grip FX Stirrup blends style with safety. Its flexible outer arm releases the foot during a fall, then returns to its original shape. Made from lightweight, strong cast aluminium with a durable powder coating, it features a deep, secure foot plate with excellent traction for all conditions. A weighted, shock-absorbing base stabilizes and energizes legs, while the angled eyelet improves rider alignment and retrieval.

The main body of the stirrup is crafted from a single piece of integrated metal, providing strength and durability without excess weight. The footpad is made from impact-resistant polyamide, while the non-slip tread is stainless steel for reliable grip in all conditions. Unlike more rigid designs, the stirrup’s slightly flexible structure absorbs impact, providing relief to your ankles, knees, hips, and foot arches during extended rides.

These stirrups offer a straightforward approach to rider safety, with a bent leg design that minimizes the chance of your foot getting caught in an accident. While they don’t have the release mechanisms found in some mechanical arm stirrups, their simplicity and durability make them a reliable choice for riders who prefer a classic style. Their rust-resistant construction and variety of sizes ensure they are practical and long-lasting for everyday use.

These stirrups combine practicality with a sleek, customisable design. The release mechanism operates without springs or magnets, making it easy to reset and dependable in an emergency. They’re made from lightweight yet durable aluminium, so they feel effortless to use while still offering top-notch stability. The black treads have a special scratch-proof treatment and feature unique slots for removing sand from your boots, with a texture that increases grip, helping to ensure optimum security and stability throughout use.

Magnetic stirrups are a relatively modern addition to the world of equestrian equipment, designed to enhance stability and security while riding. They feature a magnet in the footbed that helps keep the rider’s boot in place, which can improve balance and control, particularly in disciplines like dressage or show jumping. Importantly, the magnet is not the primary safety mechanism. Most magnetic stirrups also incorporate a traditional safety release system, such as a side-opening arm, to ensure the rider’s foot can disengage in the event of a fall.

While magnetic stirrups can provide added confidence and functionality, there are factors to consider before using them. The strength of the magnetic connection varies between models and may not suit every rider’s preference. Compatibility with specific riding boots is another consideration, as the magnets are designed to work with particular soles. Regular maintenance is also necessary to prevent dirt or debris from affecting the magnetic connection.

Safety stirrups are designed to reduce the risk of injury by allowing a rider’s foot to release during a fall, minimizing the chance of being dragged. Using mechanisms like flexible arms, side-opening designs, or magnetic connections, they respond to uneven pressure or twisting forces to release the foot effectively. While no stirrup can eliminate all risks, safety stirrups are particularly effective for disciplines like eventing or showjumping and are a popular choice for riders of all levels.

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Oscar joined Horse & Hound in October 2023 and is the magazine’s dressage editor and sports manager, overseeing coverage of equestrian sport. After studying equine science at Myerscough College, he spent four years working for leading dressage rider Emile Faurie, competing at the 2015 National Dressage Championships and travelling with the yard to CDIs including Aachen and Saumur. He holds a master’s degree in Literature from York St John University (2021).

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