Flex-On Stirrup Irons: Which Ones Are Right for You?

Stirrups support your feet while you’re in the saddle, so it’s important to choose the right ones. The right stirrup irons can help you maintain the correct leg position and seat and absorb shock to reduce joint pain. So, how do you choose the best stirrup irons for you? Each discipline has unique style and impact requirements when it comes to stirrups, but Flex-On has found a way to provide well-loved stirrup irons for every rider. Flex-On stirrup irons use innovative technology, are customizable, and come in several different models for jumping, hunters, equitation, dressage, and eventing.

What are English stirrup irons?

English stirrup irons are upside down U-shaped with a platform at the bottom for the ball of the rider’s foot. They attach to the stirrup leather from the saddle to provide a step for mounting and support for your feet as you ride. This support from the stirrup irons allows riders to maintain proper leg position, with heels down, in order to provide precise leg cues to their horse. They also help with balance so the rider can maintain a good seat in the saddle. Because stirrup irons can put pressure on a rider’s joints when landing, many models use new designs and materials to absorb and diffuse shock.

English riders have been using stirrup irons for centuries. Originally, they were all forged from iron, giving them the name “stirrup irons”. Today, they’re made from many different materials, but some classic designs still use iron. The most common type of English stirrup iron is the Fillis. Fillis irons have a classic look that works for any English discipline. They’re also weighted at the bottom to make them easier to pick up if the rider’s foot slips free.

Other types of stirrup irons have emerged that have a similar appearance to the Fillis, but incorporate advanced designs and materials to improve safety and performance. Quick release or safety stirrup irons are made with a rubber band or releasable branch on the outer side of the stirrup to allow the foot to break away if the rider falls. Flexible or jointed stirrups connect the footbed with rubber pieces to better absorb shock and protect the rider’s joints. Composite stirrups also offer improved shock absorption, made of a lightweight polymer instead of iron.

Learn more: Complete Guide to Stirrup Irons

Why choose Flex-On stirrup irons?

Based in France, Flex-On is an innovative company that brings the latest performance technology to the equestrian sport. This commitment to innovation is what makes Flex-On’s stirrup irons some of the best around. They manufacture other equestrian equipment as well, but Flex-On is known and loved for their shock-absorbing stirrups, perfect for English riders of all disciplines.

Shock absorption

Flex-On stirrup irons are made with elastomer shock absorbers and wide footbeds for superior shock absorption. These features help evenly distribute shock from the impact of riding, protecting the rider’s joints from receiving the full force of the impact. Not only does this reduce chronic joint pain, but it serves to improve the rider’s position for enhanced performance.

Two footbeds to choose from

Depending on your preference, you can purchase Flex-On stirrup irons with either traditional flat footbeds or inclined footbeds. The inclined footbeds encourage proper heel flexion to provide stability, reduce fatigue, and promote precision. The interchangeable footbed inserts are available in a standard grip design or an ultra-grip design with small metal studs to provide extra grip in those moments when you really need it.

Innovative frame

Flex-On stirrup frames feature a stirrup leather slot at an offset angle to keep the rider’s legs in the right position and improve posture. Plus, each iron’s lightweight frame is hot-forged and treated to prevent oxidation and improve durability.

Fully customizable

With Flex-On’s customization options, there’s truly a perfect stirrup for every rider. Choose the footbed design, tread level, and color for a custom stirrup that meets your specific needs and preferences. For jumpers and eventers, the Flex-On Green Composite Irons offer endless color combinations for a unique way to express your style in the saddle.

Types of Flex-On stirrup irons

Flex-On offers four different stirrup models to accommodate riders of all ages, sizes, and disciplines. Here’s the rundown on each.

Flex-On Aluminum Stirrups

The Flex-On Aluminum Stirrup Irons are constructed with featherlight aluminum and shock-absorbing elastomers to protect your joints. These stirrups are Flex-On’s most classic design, with a chrome finish perfect for any riding discipline. With inclined and ultra-grip footbeds, your feet will stay in the proper position for the entire ride.

Best for: jumpers, eventers, and dressage riders

Flex-On Hunter Stirrups

The Flex-On Hunter H Stirrup Irons feature all the best qualities of the Flex-On Aluminum but with an even more lightweight and sleek design. The subtle black details and classic frame shape make these stirrups perfect for the hunter ring. The Hunter stirrups come with the ultra-grip tread system and are available in inclined or flat footbeds.

Best for: hunter and equitation riders

Flex-On Green Composite Stirrups

The Flex-On Green Composite Stirrup Irons are made with a recycled composite material, making them lightweight and eco-friendly. They’re also completely customizable, with several color options for the frame, elastomer, footbed, and magnetic sticker. With choices between a flat or inclined footbed and standard grip or ultra-grip treads, these stirrups offer endless combinations to match your unique style and preferences.

Best for: jumpers and eventers

Flex-On Safe-On Stirrups

The Flex-On Safe-On Stirrup Irons are made of the same lightweight composite material as the Green Composite stirrups, but with a flexible outer branch that releases when force from the rider’s foot is applied. The Safe-On stirrups prioritize safety by freeing the rider’s feet in the case of a fall. The branch can then be manually reset with an Allen wrench for your next ride. The Flex-On Safe-On Junior model is designed for younger riders, with a lower weight threshold to trigger the release of the outer branch.

Best for: any rider

How to choose the right Flex-On stirrup irons

When choosing between Flex-On stirrup options, one consideration is which discipline you ride in. Think about which features are most important for your discipline based on the movements and formality required. For example, dressage riders should opt for the inclined footbed to aid with lengthening their legs, while hunter and equitation riders should look for a sleek, classic design that the judges will approve.

Safety stirrups are becoming more popular among riders, but when do you need them? Younger or inexperienced riders should always wear safety stirrups since they are at a greater risk of falling. Riding green horses is another good reason to choose safety stirrups. Eventers often choose safety stirrups as well, but Flex-On Safe-On Stirrup Irons are suitable for any rider. 

One of the most important factors when searching for the perfect stirrup irons is making sure you get the right size. Typically, if they’re too tight or too loose, your feet could get stuck or slip out of the irons. But Flex-On makes all their stirrups with a 4.75-inch, grippy footbed to ensure the rider’s foot does not get stuck in or slip out of the irons while riding. 

Mount with confidence in Flex-On stirrups

If you’re looking for stirrup irons that provide the perfect balance of comfort, performance, and style, Flex-On stirrups are for you. With Flex-On, you can ride with confidence knowing your stirrups will provide the stability you need to ride at your best time and time again. Shop our collection of Flex-On stirrups today for a ride and look you’ll love.

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