How to Determine Correct Stirrup Length

In riding, balance means everything. Having the wrong stirrup length calls for an uncomfortable and unbalanced ride. It's incredibly distracting! If you are like me, you have one leg that's slightly longer than the other, which means you may need different stirrup lengths for each leg. The steps below are recommended for riders in English saddles, although I've seen Saddle Seat equitation riders do this, too.

Things You'll Need

  • English saddle of leather, nylon or "pleather"
  • Working stirrup leathers with good buckles and no worn out parts
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Instructions

    • 1

      Do this with the saddle on or off of your horse. Face the saddle's left side as if you are going to mount. Run down the stirrup to the bottom of the leather. Pick up the stirrup iron and shove it under your armpit. Extend your arm straight out so it touches the saddle.

    • 2

      Adjust the stirrup leather so it matches the length of your arm.

    • 3

      Repeat this process on the other side. This often is all many riders have to do, but you should check that the length is okay once in the saddle.

    • 4

      Tack up your horse (if you haven't already), take him outside of the barn and mount up.

    • 5

      Let your legs relax in the saddle and let your legs hang next to the stirrup irons. The bottom of the stirrup should bang you in the ankle. If not, then you can adjust while in the saddle.

    • 6

      Lift your leg and tuck the front flap of the saddle under your thigh. You can then work the buckles from the saddle, checking your ankle against the bottom of the stirrup iron for the correct length.