How to Adjust Stirrups to the Right Length Before Mounting a Horse

It is disconcerting to mount a horse and discover your stirrups are either way too long or way too short. If you are on a trail ride, you will be fumbling with the buckles on the stirrup leathers while the other riders head off down the trail. There is a way to determine stirrup length before you mount your horse, saving you lots of time and frustration.

Instructions

    • 1

      Stand on the near, or left, side of the horse facing the saddle.

    • 2

      Place the tips of the fingers on your left hand on the stirrup bar. The stirrup bar, or metal bar that holds the stirrup leather, is underneath the saddle flap.

    • 3

      Lift the stirrup with your right hand and place it in your armpit.

    • 4

      If the stirrup doesn't quite reach your armpit, lengthen the stirrup leathers by unbuckling the buckle and moving it down one or two holes on the leather.

    • 5

      If there is slack in the stirrup leather, shorten it by unfastening the buckle and moving it up one or two holes on the leather.

    • 6

      Repeat the same process on the right, or far, side of the horse.

    • 7

      Before you mount, stand in front of the horse and look at the stirrups to make certain they are even. Be sure the horse is standing squarely and not resting a hind leg. This can make the horse's body lean to one side and the stirrups will appear to be uneven.