Flex On Stirrups in Equitation

[KandC]

I am currently looking at the Flex-On Hunter stirrups and was wondering if they would be OK to use in the adult equitation ring. Long story (below) short: can I use inclined stirrups in the adult equitation?

I have some hip issues which has led now to compensatory ankle pain (currently in PT/with chiro, so we’re working on it) and I sink unevenly into my heels due to pain/tightness in a close contact saddle. I was looking at some inclined stirrups with shock absorption for relief. I can drop my heels (with some pain/stiffness on my bad leg) evenly on stairs and don’t struggle quite as much to relax in a dressage saddle with Herm Sprenger Bow Balance stirrups. I currently ride in MDC Classics, but have never quite felt secure/“normal” since starting down this bad hip/PT/chiro/post-partum journey. I feel like a “softer” stirrup might help with pain, but would prefer to use tack I will also show in.

[MHM]

A rider can’t be eliminated for any kind of stirrup unless it is tied to the girth. Any stirrup that looks relatively traditional is probably not going to be very noticeable. Personally, I would not use a color other than silver, but that’s just me.

From the USEF rules:

EQ 106.6

When showing in the Hunter/Jumping Seat Equitation section it is recommended that riders use traditional stainless steel stirrup irons that promote proper position of the foot in the iron as well as a correct leg position. It is further recommended that riders use stirrup irons that allow judges a clear and unobstructed view of the position of the foot in the stirrup. Judges may not eliminate a rider for using a particular style of stirrup iron. (Exception: see EQ101.4)

[Foitin]

I believe that most riders in the maclay finals used these types of stirrups (or at least those with a wider, traction pad), if you look at the pictures of the riders. This is also the case with riders in our barn. I think it is standard, even. I wouldn’t hesitate unless my trainer was opposed for ideological reasons.

[Words_of_Wisdom]

Lots of the Flex-On hunter stirrups in the eq ring. Would not anticipate it being an issue.

[mbhorse]

Do the ultra grip pads scratch your saddle when they’re run up? I have a bad knee that’s been through 4 surgeries. I’m currently using older Sprengers but am thinking about switching to the Flex On Hunters.

[Bristol_Bay]

I have had the cheese grater type stirrups for years. I got in the habit of grabbing them with my gloved hand over the pads to run them up in order to protect the leathers. Otherwise, they’d shred them.

[Foitin]

I have the flexon safeon super grip irons and I have not had problems with the leathers (but I have wide, industrial strength ones). I have had damage to my saddle flap as a result of being careless when I put my saddle in my tack trunk. I think the design of the safe-on pad is such that scratching the flap is avoidable with being very careful, which is not my personal tendency.

[erinmeri]

I don’t have Flex Ons, but I covered my Lorenzini cheese graters in black vet wrap to protect my saddle and it has worked well. (In case that helps!) You can always remove it for the show ring, but it isn’t really that noticeable IMO.