The 10 Best Saddle Stirrups

The ProRider Sloped (appx. $45) hold your feet at a slight angle, taking some of the pressure off your knees. They have just enough grip inside to help you feel secure as you ride, while still being easy to get out of if you need to bail out in a hurry.

If you have to spend all day on horseback, the Royal King Endurance (appx. $46) can take some of the strain off your lower extremities. The 4.5" tread offers plenty of purchase for your feet, and it's even padded to give your dogs one less reason to bark.

While they're not much to look at, the Tough 1 Angled (appx. $51) bow out in the middle, giving you more room for your boots. The rough rubber inserts on the treads keep your soles securely in place, even when you're riding over bumpy terrain.

These offerings from AJ Tack Wholesale (around $55) are definitely on the hefty side, with lots of exposed aluminum, so be careful when saddling up your pony. The leather on the treads and rollers is classic and utilitarian, making these ideal for everyday riding.

The Other Aluminum (appx. $37) use reinforced textured rubber on the treads in lieu of leather, which improves its durability. You won't have to race back inside when it rains, or avoid splashing through mud, enabling you to stay out until your work (or fun) day is done.

The ornately-engraved ProRider Deep Roper (around $47) are as suitable for showing your horse as they are for competing with him. You might have to work a little harder than you like keeping them polished, but it's definitely worth it to see them gleam.

If you don't like feeling as if you might fall out of your saddle at any moment, the standard treads on the ProRider Wooden Bell (around $67) are completely flat. This can improve your balance and sense of security, though be aware that it will likely put more stress on your knees.

The leather on these pieces from Tough 1 (about $41) isn't the highest-quality, but nevertheless it's durable enough to withstand plenty of abuse. They are extremely slippery, though, so be careful when dismounting, especially if you're wearing new boots.

You don't have to be stuck in an uncomfortable pose with the Tough 1 Swivel and Lock (about $78), as they can rotate 360 degrees before being set in your desired position. You can also keep them unlocked, if you like, allowing your legs to move freely as you ride.

While the aluminum components on the Derby Originals Tahoe Tack (appx. $48) are very prominent, you don't need to worry about them overheating and scalding you or your horse, as they stay cool even in the most blistering heat. You can still burn yourself on your conchos, if you like.