How to Turn Stirrups on a Western Saddle

Your new Western saddle looks great on your horse. Now it's time to start breaking it in. Correct stirrup position will help you mount and keep your feet from sliding out of the stirrups while riding. Whether you trail ride or are headed for the show ring, make it a comfortable and safe ride by turning the stirrups.

Things You'll Need

  • Saddle stand
  • Warm water
  • Sponge
  • 1 piece of wood, 2-inches-by-4-inches and a couple feet in length
  • Leather conditioner
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place your saddle on the saddle stand.

    • 2

      Soak the stirrup leathers and the underside of the saddle fenders with warm water. Soaking the leather will allow you to twist it into the correct position.

    • 3

      Twist the right stirrup clockwise one full turn. Insert the 2-inches-by-4-inches piece of wood through the stirrup and under the saddle. The 2x4 holds the stirrup in place.

    • 4

      Twist the left stirrup counterclockwise one full turn. Insert the other end of the 2x4 through the stirrup so the board holds both stirrups in place.

    • 5

      Wait at least one day to allow the leather to dry thoroughly. If the leather is not completely dry, the stirrups will not turn.

    • 6

      Remove the 2x4. The stirrups and leathers will untwist and turn outward.

    • 7

      Clean the stirrups, leathers and fenders with leather conditioner. The conditioner will put the moisture back into the leather and will keep it from cracking.