Stirrups - how to choose safe ones (Freejump, Tech Stirrups, Samshield Shield'Rup)

[Note — this guide applies only to equestrian stirrups: a piece of saddle equipment in which the rider places their feet. If you are looking for information about construction stirrups, reinforcement stirrups, or 20x20 concrete elements – this is not the text for you.]

Stay with us if you're wondering about the choice between Freejump Soft'Up Pro, Freejump Soft'Up Pro+, Tech Stirrups Venice, and a classic steel arch.

Statistics to start with: 8 out of 10 falls from a horse resulting in death or severe spinal injury are due to the foot getting stuck in the stirrup and the rider being dragged by a frightened horse.

The selection of stirrups is not a matter of aesthetics or budget, and certainly not "a detail that can be sorted out later." It's a decision of the same importance as choosing a riding helmet — a life-saving decision.

This guide leads you step by step through the construction of stirrups, their most important types — from classic to safety models — as well as a comparison of brands (Freejump, Tech Stirrups), sizes, prices, and purchasing tips for riders of various skill levels. At Equishop, for over 25 years, we have matched and sold tens of thousands of pairs of stirrups — from the first models for children to equipment used by national team riders.

Table of Contents

1. Why stirrups are the number 1 safety equipment
2. Stirrup construction — key elements
3. Types of stirrups — by safety and application
4. Freejump stirrups — why they are a leader in the safety segment
5. Tech Stirrups — Italian specialization in safety and ergonomics
6. Samshield Shield'Rup — a new player from France (aerospace aluminum)
7. Brand comparison — table
8. Sizes — how to choose stirrups
9. Stirrup prices — how much to spend
10. Mistakes when choosing stirrups
11. Which stirrups for whom — decision matrix
12. Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
13. Summary and contact

Why stirrups are the number 1 safety equipment

In the debate about safety in equestrianism, most is said about helmets — rightly so, because 60% of all injuries are head injuries.

But if you look solely at fatal accidents and paralysis, the picture changes dramatically. One mechanism then dominates: the rider falls from the horse, their foot gets trapped in the stirrup bar, the horse panics and gallops away — the rider is dragged along the ground, colliding with obstacles with their head and torso.

At sports medicine conferences, this mechanism is called foot-trap drag injury. The outcome: spinal fractures, skull base fracture, suffocation, death.

Historically, the most famous case is the fall of Christopher Reeve (the actor who played Superman) in 1995 — during a cross-country event, the horse stopped before an obstacle, Reeve flew forward, but his foot remained in the stirrup. The fall resulted in paralysis from the neck down, from which the actor never recovered.

In Polish stables, similar incidents occur a dozen times a year — most end happily, but each one carries a real risk that could have been reduced to zero by a single purchasing decision.

The role of safety stirrups

Safety stirrups are a category of products designed to minimize the risk of foot-trap drag injury. When a rider's leg is strongly pulled sideways during a fall, the stirrup iron opens, and the foot can free itself. The rider falls to the ground but is not connected to the fleeing horse. The opening mechanism itself depends on the technology: in Freejump models, a magnetic system is used, and in Tech Stirrups models — a system that releases the iron upon a strong lateral pull. Regardless of the design, the principle is one: the rider's foot must not remain trapped in the stirrup.

Evolution of stirrups 1990–2026

Until the 1990s, full steel Fillis stirrups were the standard — solid, cheap, durable, but extremely dangerous in a fall.

In the 1990s, the first Peacock stirrups (with a rubber band on the side) appeared, attempting to solve the problem — and partially solving it, at the cost of comfort and aesthetics.

The breakthrough came in 2004, when the French company Freejump patented an openable stirrup iron with a magnetic closure — a stirrup that looks like a classic one, weighs the same, and releases the rider's leg in a fall. Since then, stirrups with a magnetic mechanism have de facto become one of the most important safety standards in show jumping and eventing worldwide.

Equishop tip: if you are buying your first "adult" safety stirrups after riding school, do not save money by buying used ones. In magnetic stirrups, the calibration of the magnet and the condition of the stirrup iron are crucial — it's difficult to assess this visually, and one failed release attempt in a fall ends up the same as stirrups without safety. A new Freejump Soft'Up Classic (approx. 1300 PLN) with a manufacturer's warranty provides safety that a used item cannot guarantee.

Stirrup construction — key elements

Before we move on to selection, it's worth knowing the names of all the elements — they will reappear in product descriptions and in conversations with advisors in the showroom.

Stirrup branch — the outer frame of the stirrup, most often D or U-shaped. It holds the foot in the correct position and is largely responsible for the durability of the entire structure. The most common materials are chrome-plated steel, stainless steel, aerospace aluminum, technical composites, and — in selected premium models — titanium.

Tread / footbed — the horizontal part on which the rider's boot rests. It can be made of rubber, TPU, polyurethane, carbon, or other materials that improve grip and foot stability.

Eye — an opening in the upper part of the stirrup, through which the stirrup leather passes. We distinguish between a straight eye and an inclined eye; the latter is sometimes used in ergonomic models, as it helps to better position the foot and relieve the ankle joint.

When comparing models, pay attention primarily to the weight, internal width, shape of the footbed, and the way the stirrup leather is guided. Color is mainly of aesthetic importance, although in cross-country riding it can also be a practical consideration.

Types of stirrups — by safety and application

Classic stirrups

Classic chrome-plated steel, D-shaped iron, rubber insert with anti-slip studs. The Tech Stirrups Venice model (classic Fillis shape in a modern version) represents this category in Equishop's offer. Advantages: durability measured in decades, low price (300–600 PLN), versatility. Disadvantages: no safety system — the foot can remain trapped in a fall. Our Equishop recommendation: we recommend classic stirrups only in riding schools for absolute beginners as a first pair, with the proviso that after the first year of regular riding, it's worth switching to the safety model segment.

Safety stirrups with a magnetic mechanism (Freejump Soft'Up Pro, Classic)

A solution popularized by Freejump, now also developed by other manufacturers. The stirrup iron consists of two elements: a fixed base and a movable side that opens outwards at a 90° angle when pulled with appropriate force (magnet calibration approx. 10 kg). In normal riding conditions, the stirrup iron remains closed — the magnet holds it with a multiple margin relative to the forces acting during the seat, canter, or jump. In a fall, when the leg jerks the stirrup sideways, the iron releases. The foot comes out. This is currently one of the main technologies in the safety segment and an important benchmark for premium brands available at Equishop.

Safety stirrups with an openable iron (Tech Stirrups)

An alternative to Freejump in Equishop's offer is the Tech Stirrups series — an Italian manufacturer whose stirrups (including Tech Stirrups Venice Evo, Tokyo) use a flexible iron and a dedicated release system that frees the foot upon a lateral jerk. Both systems — Freejump and Tech Stirrups — achieve the same safety goal: eliminating the foot-trap drag injury mechanism. They differ in construction details, aesthetics, and price, and the choice between them depends on the rider's preferences and discipline.

Articulated stirrups (flex stirrups)

In this category, the foot is set at a slight angle (usually 5–10°), which reduces strain on the rider's knee and ankle joint. Popular in long cross-country events and among riders with a history of knee injuries. Often combined with safety technology (e.g., Freejump Soft'Up Pro+ with a profiled footbed or Tech Stirrups Venice Evo). Ergonomic comfort is clearly noticeable after 2–3 hours in the saddle.

Flexible stirrups (with rubber)

The stirrup iron contains an elastomer or rubber insert that absorbs micro-shocks with every step of the horse. This is a choice for recreational riders with knee problems and for those who spend long hours in the field. Note: strictly absorptive models are not safety models — there is no foot release mechanism. In the Freejump and Tech Stirrups models recommended by Equishop, shock absorption is often combined with a safety system.

Dressage stirrups (Tech Stirrups Tokyo, Freejump)

For dressage, foot stability with a long leg, sensitivity, and aesthetics are important. The flagship model in this segment in Equishop's offer is Tech Stirrups Tokyo — a stirrup iron with a profiled, wide footbed that helps stabilize the rider's leg with a longer leg and ensures precise pressure placement. Alternative: Freejump in a dressage version — combines the aesthetics of a classic stirrup with a safety system. For dressage riders of class B and above — practically standard.

Stirrups for children (Tech Stirrups FIT-8, Freejump Soft'Up Kids)

For the youngest, two rules apply: lightness (a child has a lighter leg — a heavy stirrup pulls the foot and is distracting) and a foot release system (a child does not have the reflex to pull out their foot in a fall).

Tech Stirrups FIT-8 is the brand's flagship children's model and one of the most important products in the Tech Stirrups catalog. Hand-forged in Italy from premium aluminum, it maintains a geometry adapted to a child's foot (EU 28–36).

From the first lesson, we recommend safety models — the child doesn't need to know it's a safety category, but the parent must ensure it. For children's show jumping above 60 cm, FIT-8 is the minimum safety.

Freejump stirrups — why they are a leader in the safety segment

Freejump Systems is a French company founded in 2004 in Aix-en-Provence, specializing from the outset in one issue — rider foot safety. The project is based on a patent for a magnetic stirrup iron mechanism, which has remained one of the industry's benchmarks for two decades. Freejump is now the choice of the French, British, American, and Polish national teams in show jumping and eventing; the brand can be seen with riders competing at the Olympics and in World Cup finals. At Equishop, we treat Freejump as a flagship stirrup brand — not because it is the most expensive, but because the statistics of falls with Freejump equipment are impossible to ignore.

Freejump models

Soft'Up Pro — flagship model with the widest stirrup iron (120 mm), TPU footbed with deep ventilation, maximum boot grip. A common choice for riders competing in eventing and show jumping at higher levels. Price: ~1500–1800 PLN.

Soft'Up Pro+ — extended version of the flagship model: the same magnetic technology, additionally reinforced footbed with deep shock absorption and color customization option. Choice for riders seeking maximum shock absorption (longer courses, cross-country). Price: ~1700–2000 PLN.

Soft'Up Classic — version for recreational riders and amateur show jumpers. The same magnetic system, slightly narrower footbed, lower price. Price: ~1200–1400 PLN.

Soft'Up Lite — ultralight variant with an aerospace aluminum stirrup iron instead of stainless steel. Price: ~1400–1700 PLN.

Soft'Up Kids — miniature of the Soft'Up Classic designed for young riders in junior size. Price: ~800–1000 PLN.

How the Freejump magnetic system works

The stirrup iron consists of a fixed base (stainless steel, screwed to the eye) and a movable side, which in the closed position rests on a neodymium magnet of appropriately selected strength. Magnet holding force: approx. 10 kg along the axis of normal stirrup operation (foot pressure downwards during sitting, canter, or jump). Release force: the rider must pull the foot sideways with acceleration corresponding to a fall. This distinction between vertical and lateral force is crucial — that's why the Freejump system works: the stirrup iron does not open accidentally during a jump, but always opens during a fall.

How to maintain Freejump stirrups

• After every ride — wipe the stirrup iron clean of sand and sweat
• Once a month — check if the magnet is clean (no metal filings)
• Every 2 years — replace the rubber elements of the footbed (available as spare parts)
• After every fall where the stirrup iron opened — check for deformation; if in doubt, send for service or replace the set

Freejump is covered by a 2-year manufacturer's warranty, and spare parts are available at Equishop by order.

Tech Stirrups — Italian specialization in safety and ergonomics

Tech Stirrups is an Italian stirrup manufacturer based in the province of Treviso, operating under the motto "Precision, comfort, and safety forged in Italy". The stirrup irons are forged and hand-finished in Italy from premium aluminum. While Freejump focuses on a magnetic closure system, Tech Stirrups develops this issue in a different way — creating ergonomic stirrups dedicated to a specific discipline.

Tech Stirrups is one of the few brands on the market that offers a dedicated model for each of the main equestrian disciplines: show jumping, cross-country, dressage, hunter, endurance, polo, and horse racing. No other manufacturer does this with such consistency.

Brand philosophy — a separate model for each discipline

Tech Stirrups does not produce "universal stirrups." Each model is designed for the specific biomechanical requirements of a particular discipline — foot angle, tread width, weight, tread hardness, colors are adapted to the aesthetics and requirements of the given equestrian sport.

In practice, this means that a show jumper will receive a different stirrup than a dressage rider — even if both ride at the same level. This philosophy translates into better feel of leg aids, less fatigue, and greater comfort after long hours in the saddle.

Tech Stirrups models — by discipline

Venice Plus Evo (show jumping + cross-country) — flagship show jumping model. The flexible safety iron opens at an angle in a fall, releasing the foot. Wide footbed with a pronounced tread provides maximum boot grip during dynamic riding. Colors: black-brown. Price: 900–1300 PLN.

Venice Dressage Plus (dressage) — in characteristic rose gold colors. Extended footbed and stable iron provide precise leg aids and stability for riding with a long leg. Recommended from L class upwards. Price: 1000–1500 PLN.

Venice HJS Plus (hunter / equitation) — classic silver colors, wider footbed than the show jumping model, stable foot angle. Choice for hunter riders and Anglo-Saxon style. Price: 1000–1400 PLN.

Venice Xtrail (endurance / trail riding) — lightweight aluminum construction, especially comfortable after 4–6 hours in the saddle. Resistance to contamination (sand, mud, water) — a critical feature for long-distance endurance riders. Color: silver-black. Price: 900–1300 PLN.

Rome (horse racing) — the lightest Tech Stirrups model, in titanium colors. Minimum weight is a key parameter on the race track. Price: 1500–2200 PLN.

Pisa (polo) — reinforced construction for dynamic position changes and stick strikes characteristic of polo. Color: black. Price: 1200–1600 PLN.

Tokyo (dressage – classic variant) — stable wide footbed, black colors. An alternative to Venice Dressage Plus for riders preferring classic aesthetics. Price: 1000–1500 PLN.

FIT-8 — stirrups for children and juniors

Tech Stirrups FIT-8 is the brand's flagship children's/junior model and one of the most important products in the Tech Stirrups catalog. Hand-forged in Italy from premium aluminum, it maintains a geometry adapted to a child's foot (EU 28–36).

Key features of FIT-8 for the young rider's safety:

• Concave footplate — a concave sole that "holds" the child's foot in an optimal position. A child's foot is less stable than an adult's, so it needs better support under the metatarsus.
• Pronounced tread — pronounced tread. Children usually exert less pressure on the stirrup, so the boot's grip must be more decisive than an adult's.
• Disciplines — designed for jumping and cross-country. A child learning to jump and ride off-road needs a stirrup that will release the foot without hesitation in the event of a fall.
• Mechanical protection — mechanical safety in the form of a flexible arm (without a magnet) — a simple, straightforward, and proven solution for everyday use.

Price of FIT-8: 450–650 PLN. For parents — this is an investment for 2–3 years, after which the child moves to an adult size.

Equishop Tip: for a child starting to jump (above 60 cm), FIT-8 is the reasonable minimum in terms of safety. Classic school stirrups without a foot release system put the child's safety in a completely different risk category. The price difference (~300 PLN between school stirrups and FIT-8) is not an argument when it comes to a child's foot in a heeled boot.

Tech Stirrups Size Guide — Official Fitting Rules

Tech Stirrups publishes a clear size chart based on the rider's shoe size (EU):

For classic stirrups (without safety), Tech Stirrups only offers adult sizes (EU 38+).

Tech Stirrups Fitting Rules (Official):

• Gap between the top edge of the boot and the inner upper part of the arm: 5–6 cm (allows the foot to exit freely in a fall).
• Side clearance between the foot and the arm wall: 0.5–1 cm on each side.
• Foot in the stirrup: ball of foot over the bar — not toes, not heel.

Equishop Tip: for a rapidly growing child — DO NOT buy "for growth". A stirrup 1–2 sizes too large is a stirrup in which the child will lose contact and balance. A rider without contact with the arm is a rider without control at a crucial moment — in a fall. Between the ages of 3–10, changing stirrups every 2–3 years is the norm — plan this into your budget.

How to Maintain Tech Stirrups

• After each ride — wipe the arm and footplate clean of sand and mud (the pronounced tread retains particles).
• Once a month — check the screws securing the footplate and the flexibility of the safety arm.
• Once a year — inspection at the Equishop showroom or send for service to Tech Stirrups.
• After a fall with arm release — check if the arm returns to its initial position without resistance; if in doubt, replace it.

Tech Stirrups are covered by a 2-year manufacturer's warranty, and spare parts (footplates, screws) are available at Equishop by order.

Samshield Shield'Rup — a New Player from France (Aerospace-Grade Aluminum)

For the last 20 years, the safety stirrup market has been practically divided between two brands: Freejump (magnetic arm release, France) and Tech Stirrups (flexible safety arm, Italy). In 2023, Samshield — a French brand primarily known for premium helmets (Shadowmatt, Miss Shield, XJ) — joined this duopoly, introducing the Shield'Rup model. This is Samshield's first entry into the stirrup category and also the first technologically new safety stirrup in a decade.

What is Shield'Rup — Safety Mechanism

Shield'Rup is a safety stirrup with a patented lateral opening system. Unlike Freejump (magnet releasing the arm forward) and Tech Stirrups (flexible arm bending), Shield'Rup releases the foot by lateral opening of the arm. Samshield communicates this mechanism with the slogan "maximum safety without compromising lightness and stability".

Shell Material: aerospace-grade aluminum — the same type of alloy used in the construction of light aircraft and Formula 1 parts. In equestrian stirrups, aerospace-grade aluminum provides three things: high strength with low weight, long-term corrosion resistance, and the ability to precisely manufacture the arm's geometry without the "thick edges" typical of cast aluminum.

Key Features — What Sets Shield'Rup Apart

• Lateral foot release system — patented solution, different from Freejump's magnetic and Tech Stirrups' flexible arm. Communicated goal: immediate foot release in a fall without compromising stability during normal riding.
• Aerospace-grade aluminum as the main structural material — lower weight than steel, higher strength than classic cast aluminum.
• Samshield color variants — Shield'Rup stirrups are available in color variants (including brushed pink gold — a rose gold variant, a rarity in the stirrup segment).
• Stability and grip — Samshield emphasizes that the design provides "exceptional grip and optimal balance" for demanding riding (jumping, cross-country).
• Brand philosophy: "innovation, elegance, and performance" — the stirrup should look as good as the Samshield helmet on the same rider's head. Aesthetic matching with the rest of Samshield's equipment is a conscious argument when choosing.

Who is Shield'Rup for

Shield'Rup is aimed at the same riders as the flagship Freejump Soft'Up Pro / Pro+ and Tech Stirrups Venice Plus Evo: jumping, eventing, and demanding recreational riding with full safety. Three customer profiles for whom Shield'Rup is a natural choice:

1. Riders already using a Samshield helmet — seeking full aesthetic consistency of equipment (similar color convention, same aesthetics).
2. Collectors of new technology — individuals who want a new safety category product, not just another Freejump.
3. Riders seeking a technological alternative — if the magnetic mechanism for some reason did not appeal to them (e.g., they dealt with magnetic mechanism service after a fall and want a different system), the lateral opening of Shield'Rup is a fresh proposition.

Shield'Rup's Position Among Brands

Important context: Freejump and Tech Stirrups are systems well-proven in practice, with decades of implementation and millions of pairs in use. Shield'Rup is a new product — technologically interesting, but with a shorter history of practical use. For professional and national team riders, we recommend testing under controlled conditions (training, not the first course of the Polish championships). For conscious amateurs — an interesting, well-thought-out alternative, especially if you are aesthetically attached to the rest of the Samshield ecosystem.

Equishop Tip. If you are undecided between Freejump Soft'Up Pro, Tech Stirrups Venice Plus Evo, and Samshield Shield'Rup — we invite you to our showroom in Ruda Śląska. All three release systems work physically differently, and the difference is best felt underfoot: how the arm behaves with a simulated jerk. 15 minutes in the showroom will answer the question better than an hour of reading specifications. For customers who already use a Samshield helmet, we will also show a full aesthetic comparison of helmet + stirrups.

Official manufacturer's website: samshield.com/en/content/32-shield-rup. Availability at Equishop — safety stirrups category at equishop.com.

Brand Comparison — Table

At Equishop, in the stirrup category, we recommend three brands that cover all the most important segments — from the first stirrups for a child to top-level competitive equipment: Freejump (French leader in the safety segment with magnetic arm closure), Tech Stirrups (Italian manufacturer specializing in ergonomic and safety models in all disciplines), and Samshield Shield'Rup (French premium helmet brand, which entered the stirrup category in 2023 with a patented lateral opening system in aerospace-grade aluminum). The comparison below will facilitate quick orientation.

You can find the full range of these brands in the stirrups collection at equishop.com — in the showroom you can try on all models live (fitting them to your boot, checking the arm width). Other brands are also available on the market (including Sprenger and Flex-On), but as part of Equishop's official recommendation, we focus on Freejump, Tech Stirrups, and Samshield Shield'Rup — manufacturers whose full warranty service and availability of spare parts we can ensure.

Sizes — How to Choose Stirrups

Stirrup size refers to the internal width of the arm measured in millimeters — that is, the clearance where the rider's foot fits. Rule: the foot in the boot must have 1–1.5 cm of play on both sides — no less, no more. A stirrup that is too tight will trap the boot in a fall (the greatest safety risk). A stirrup that is too wide allows the foot to "wobble" — you lose contact, you lose balance, and in case of a jerk, the foot can jump right into the middle of the stirrup and get stuck.

Adult Stirrup Size Chart

Children's Size Chart

Equishop Tip: Tech Stirrups officially divides its safety sizes into Children (EU ≤35), Medium (EU 35.5–37.5), and Adult (EU 38+). For a child from 3 years old up to about 13 years old, the FIT-8 model covers this entire range in two sizes — you don't have to buy a new brand every 2 years, just the next size of the same model.

Stirrup Leather Adjustment — Practical Tip

The length of the stirrup leather is chosen according to the discipline: jumping — short leather, knee sharply bent, stirrup high; dressage — long leather, knee slightly bent, leg straight; recreational riding — something in between. Reference point: in a standing position in the saddle, the rider's foot in the stirrup should be at ankle height for dressage, 2–3 cm above the ankle for jumping. Both sides must be exactly symmetrical — 1 cm asymmetry after half an hour of riding will translate into back pain. If you are choosing new stirrup leathers, pay attention to the material (natural leather vs. reinforced nylon) and the adjustment mechanism (traditional vs. "soft grip").

Stirrup Prices — How Much to Spend

We have divided the stirrup market into four segments — from entry-level equestrianism to top competitive models.

Entry level (200–600 PLN)

Classic in chrome steel, basic rubber footplate. Tech Stirrups Venice (~450 PLN), school stirrups (~200 PLN). For beginners, or for school stables where stirrups "wear out." A segment without safety technology — ensure replacement after the first year of riding.

Medium (600–1000 PLN)

The first segment where we find safety technologies at a reasonable price. Tech Stirrups Venice Evo (~900 PLN), Tech Stirrups FIT-8 (~550 PLN, for children 3–13 years old), Freejump Soft'Up Kids (~900 PLN) for youth, higher series Tech Stirrups. Optimal price point for an amateur who rides 2–3 times a week and starts jumping courses up to 90 cm.

Premium (1000–2000 PLN)

A segment that Equishop recommends to anyone who takes riding seriously. Freejump Soft'Up Classic (~1300 PLN), Freejump Soft'Up Pro (~1600 PLN), Freejump Soft'Up Pro+ (~1800 PLN), Tech Stirrups Tokyo (~1200 PLN). Full safety technology (or full biomechanics in dressage), best materials, long lifespan (8–10 years with intensive riding).

Exclusive (2000–4000 PLN)

Freejump Soft'Up Pro Titanium (~2800 PLN), Freejump limited editions with color customization, titanium or aerospace-grade aluminum arm. Samshield Shield'Rup (~2200–3200 PLN) — a new player on the market with a patented lateral foot release system, an interesting option for those completing Samshield equipment. The difference compared to premium is mainly the arm material, safety mechanism, and aesthetics (customization). The level of safety remains comparable to the premium segment.

Equishop Tip: investing in safety stirrups is literally an investment in safety. The cost of a pair of Freejump Soft'Up Pro (~1500 PLN) is a fraction of the cost of one night in the hospital after a foot-trap drag injury — not to mention rehabilitation after a broken spine or paralysis. A category where we never compromise on safety for cost. If you have a budget of 1500 PLN and are faced with the choice "buy two low-end items" or "buy one premium," choose one premium. The second one can wait.

Most Common Mistakes When Choosing Stirrups

After more than 25 years in the industry and thousands of fittings, we see the same mistakes repeated by new customers. Here are the most common ones:

1. Buying a cheap model "to try out" — "I'll buy one for 200 PLN, see if I like riding, then I'll get better ones." The biggest conceptual mistake. Horse riding is dangerous from the first lesson — safety stirrups must be in use from the first minute, not from the moment "when I start jumping."
2. Incorrect stirrup iron width — too narrow (risk of foot getting stuck in a fall), too wide (foot slides, risk of foot going through the stirrup). Rule of thumb: 1–1.5 cm clearance on both sides.
3. Too heavy aluminum for a light foot — a rider with size 36 boots and a heavy 130 mm steel stirrup loses control because the stirrup "pulls" the leg down uncontrollably. Match the material to the proportions: lighter rider = lighter stirrup.
4. Lack of anti-slip tread — a classic mistake in cheap models with a smooth, worn-out rubber footpad. The boot slips in a wet stable, the foot comes out. Replace the rubber tread every 2 years or switch to a model with TPU (Freejump).
5. No replacement after a fall — the rider fell, the stirrup iron opened (this is how Freejump / Tech Stirrups work), after returning home, they closed the stirrup and continued riding. Wrong. After every fall where the safety system activated, the structural integrity must be checked — micro-damage to the magnet or the stirrup iron could cause it to fail in another fall.
6. Saving on stirrup leathers — new premium stirrups on old, worn leathers are a recipe for problems. The leather of the strap breaks at the worst possible moment. New stirrups = new leathers.

Which stirrups for whom — a decision matrix

A simple decision key based on rider profile:

• Beginner adult (budget PLN 400–800) → Tech Stirrups Venice (classic for learning) or Tech Stirrups Venice Evo (more budget-friendly safety stirrups). Switch to Freejump Soft'Up Classic after the first year of regular riding.
• Recreational show jumper (2–3 times a week, courses up to 100 cm) → Freejump Soft'Up Classic (~PLN 1300) or Tech Stirrups Venice Evo (~PLN 1000). Full safety at a reasonable price.
• Eventing rider / show jumper Class B+ → Freejump Soft'Up Pro (~PLN 1600) or Freejump Soft'Up Pro+ (~PLN 1800) — absolute standard in competitions, choice of national teams.
• Dressage rider Class B+ → Tech Stirrups Tokyo (~PLN 1200). Stable wide footpad, sensitivity of leg aids.
• Child 3–10 years old → Tech Stirrups FIT-8 (~PLN 550, forged aluminum, concave footpad, ideal for jumping and cross-country) or Freejump Soft'Up Kids (~PLN 900, magnet). Safety release from the first lesson.
• Endurance rider → Tech Stirrups Venice Xtrail (~PLN 1100, lightweight, resistant to mud and sand).
• Polo rider → Tech Stirrups Pisa (~PLN 1400, reinforced construction for polo dynamics).
• Hunter / equitation → Tech Stirrups Venice HJS Plus (~PLN 1200, classic silver finish, wider footpad).
• Rider with knee problems / long cross-country courses → Freejump Soft'Up Pro+ — enhanced shock absorption, safety.
• National team rider / top competitions → Freejump Soft'Up Pro Titanium (~PLN 2800) or limited editions of Freejump — aesthetics + maximum materials.

Equishop Tip: If you are buying your first "adult" safety stirrups after riding school — get Freejump Soft'Up Classic, not Soft'Up Pro. The difference is PLN 300, and for a recreational amateur rider, it's practically unnoticeable during riding. You can buy Pro later when you start competing. The Soft'Up Classic is not "worse" — it's simply optimally targeted at amateurs.

Before making your choice, it's also a good idea to browse the jumping saddle collection and riding boots — the choice of stirrups must be consistent with the rest of the equipment. If you are buying a new saddle, it is worth consulting on the choice of stirrups as part of the same saddle fitting consultation (our expert Monika, 514 766 505 combines both services).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Which jumping stirrups are the safest?

Monika - Equishop Expert: The safest jumping stirrups are the segment of safe models with a magnetic stirrup iron closure — the reference model is Freejump Soft'Up Pro (PLN 1500–1800), alternatives are Freejump Soft'Up Pro+ (PLN 1700–2000), Freejump Soft'Up Classic (PLN 1200–1400), and Tech Stirrups Venice Evo (PLN 900–1300). All these models, in case of a strong sideways pull on the foot, release the rider's leg, eliminating the risk of foot-trap drag injury (being dragged by the horse after a fall). Freejump was the first company to patent magnetic technology in 2004 and remains the choice of national teams in Poland, France, Great Britain, and the USA to this day.

Q2: Which stirrups are the best?

Monika - Equishop Expert: There isn't one universally "best" brand of stirrups — the choice depends on the discipline and level. For show jumping and eventing: Freejump Soft'Up Pro or Soft'Up Pro+. For dressage: Tech Stirrups Tokyo. For recreational riding: Freejump Soft'Up Classic or Tech Stirrups Venice Evo. For children: Tech Stirrups FIT-8 or Freejump Soft'Up Kids. For absolute beginners (budget): Tech Stirrups Venice + plan to switch to safety after a year. All recommended models are available at Equishop — you can find the full collection at equishop.com/collections/strzemiona.

Q3: How do Freejump stirrups differ?

Monika - Equishop Expert: Freejump stirrups are distinguished by their patented magnetic stirrup iron closure system — under normal riding conditions, the stirrup iron remains closed (the neodymium magnet holds with a force of approx. 10 kg), but with a strong sideways pull on the foot (fall mechanism), the stirrup iron opens at a 90° angle and releases the rider's leg. This is the most refined safety mechanism on the market, used by national teams in show jumping and eventing. Freejump also offers premium materials: a stirrup iron made of stainless steel or titanium, a TPU footpad with deep ventilation. Model prices: Soft'Up Classic (~PLN 1300), Soft'Up Pro (~PLN 1600), Soft'Up Pro+ (~PLN 1800), Soft'Up Pro Titanium (~PLN 2800), Soft'Up Kids (~PLN 900).

Q4: How to choose the right stirrup size?

Monika - Equishop Expert: Stirrup size refers to the internal width of the stirrup iron in millimeters. The rule: the foot in the riding boot must have 1–1.5 cm clearance on both sides. In practice: boot size 37–40 (EU) → 115 mm stirrup (Standard Ladies); boot 40–43 → 120 mm (Standard); boot 43+ → 125–130 mm (Wide). For children: boot 28–32 → 95–100 mm (Junior XS); boot 32–36 → 105–110 mm (Junior); boot 36–39 → 110–115 mm. A stirrup that is too narrow carries the risk of the foot getting stuck in a fall; one that is too wide — the foot slips, losing contact. Always check the sizing of a specific model — differences between brands can be 2–3 mm.

Q5: Why are magnetic stirrups safe?

Monika - Equishop Expert: Stirrups with a magnetic mechanism (Freejump) and safety stirrups with a flexible stirrup iron (Tech Stirrups) are safe because they solve the most serious cause of fatal accidents in equestrianism: foot-trap drag injury. When a rider falls from a horse and their foot gets trapped in a classic stirrup, the panicked horse drags them along the ground — statistically, 8 out of 10 such incidents result in death or severe spinal injury. A magnetic stirrup iron in such a situation opens under the force of the pull — the foot comes out, the rider lands on the ground, and the horse runs off. The magnet is calibrated to hold reliably during normal riding (vertical force, foot pressure) but to release under lateral force (fall mechanism).

Q6: Which stirrups for dressage?

Monika - Equishop Expert: In dressage, the most important thing is the biomechanics of the seat — a stable, sensitive foot support with a longer leg. The flagship dressage stirrups offered by Equishop are Tech Stirrups Tokyo (~PLN 1200) with a wide, contoured footpad that balances the leg and optimizes pressure. Alternatives: Freejump Soft'Up Classic (~PLN 1300) — safe models with an opening system in a universal version — and Freejump Soft'Up Pro+ (~PLN 1800) with a reinforced footpad that reduces knee strain. Note: in dressage, "safety" is less critical than in jumping (no obstacles, low speed, rare falls) — but in premium models, technology is often integrated anyway.

Q7: How much do good stirrups cost?

Monika - Equishop Expert: Good stirrups with safety technology start from ~PLN 900 (Tech Stirrups Venice Evo), the optimal segment for a regular amateur is PLN 1200–1800 (Freejump Soft'Up Classic, Soft'Up Pro, Soft'Up Pro+, Tech Stirrups Tokyo). Exclusive models (titanium, limited Freejump editions) range from PLN 2500–4000. For children: PLN 350–900 (Tech Stirrups FIT-8, Freejump Soft'Up Kids). Entry level without safety (Tech Stirrups Venice): PLN 400–700 — acceptable only for absolute beginners for the first year, with a plan to upgrade. Our Equishop recommendation: if you ride regularly, the minimum budget for stirrups is PLN 1200 (Freejump Soft'Up Classic).

Q8: Is it worth investing in safety stirrups?

Monika - Equishop Expert: Yes, absolutely. Statistically, 8 out of 10 fatal falls from a horse are the result of the foot-trap drag injury mechanism, which safety stirrups virtually eliminate. The cost of a pair of premium safety stirrups (e.g., Freejump Soft'Up Pro, ~PLN 1600) is a fraction of the cost of one night in the ICU after a fall — not to mention rehabilitation after a spinal fracture or lifelong paralysis. At the same time, these same stirrups last 8–10 years of regular riding, so the real annual cost is ~PLN 160–200. In terms of safety economics, this is one of the best investments in all equestrian equipment — even better than a helmet (because a helmet only protects the head, while safety stirrups protect the entire spine).

Summary

Stirrups are equipment where the choice literally has life-or-death significance.

Remember four things:

1. Safety is not an option, it's a standard — if you ride regularly, the minimum is a model with magnetic technology (Freejump) or equivalent (Tech Stirrups).
2. Size is more important than brand — the most expensive Freejump with the wrong stirrup iron width protects worse than a well-chosen Tech Stirrups Venice Evo in the correct size. Measure, try on, consult.
3. Freejump is today's reference in safety — 20 years of patent, choice of national teams, the most refined magnetic mechanism. In the show jumping and eventing segment, it's hard to find a better choice.
4. After a fall — verification — if the safety system activated, check the stirrup iron. If there are doubts, replace the entire set.

Welcome to Equishop

Check out our full range of stirrups — from children's Tech Stirrups FIT-8 models to top-of-the-line Freejump Soft'Up Pro Titanium. All brands we carry come from official distributors with full manufacturer's warranty and access to spare parts.

Ruda Śląska Showroom: ul. Oświęcimska 9, 41-707 — we invite you for fitting and a free consultation.
Online orders: shipping within 24h, free delivery over PLN 300, 30 days for returns.
Contact: +48 32 782 45 68 / siodla@equishop.com
Monika (expert, saddle + equipment fitting): 514 766 505

For clients outside Silesia — mobile service: we will come to your stable in any voivodeship in Poland with a complete set of stirrups for fitting.

Opening hours: Monday–Friday 09:00–17:00

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Browse the full stirrup collection at Equishop.com — recommended brands Freejump and Tech Stirrups.

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© Equishop 2026 — Authorized distributor of Freejump, Tech Stirrups, and Samshield

All rights reserved. The article contains information valid as of the publication date (2026-04-20). Prices and availability may change.

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