A very wise, old instructor that I rode with as a kid had a theory that riders went through 3 primary stages regarding stirrups:
1.) Absolutely needing stirrups
2.) Riding better without stirrups than with them
3.) Riding as well with stirrups as you do without them
Of course, many, many hours in the saddle are required between these stages. I distinctly remember being at stage 2 somewhat early in my riding career, and hoping that I would eventually move to stage 3. Now I just wish I had half the balance and security I did as a kid galloping and jumping around bareback 
