How to Adjust the Stirrups on an English Saddle

Adjusting the stirrups on an English saddle is an important part of preparing for a comfortable and safe ride. Here are the steps to adjust the stirrups on an English saddle:

1. Stand beside the horse and hold the stirrup iron with your left hand, while holding the stirrup leather with your right hand.

2. Adjust the stirrup leather length by pulling the buckle up or down until the stirrup iron reaches the level of your ankle bone. Your ankle should rest comfortably in the stirrup, without the iron hitting the back of your heel or the front of your ankle.

3. Once you have adjusted the length of the stirrup leather, place your foot into the stirrup iron and ensure that the stirrup leather hangs straight down from the saddle, without any twists or turns.

4. Check the length of the other stirrup to ensure that they are even. To do this, stand back and look at both stirrups from the side of the horse.

5. If necessary, make further adjustments to the stirrup length until both stirrups are even and comfortable.

6. Before mounting, ensure that the stirrup leathers are securely fastened to the saddle with the keeper, so that they do not slip or come loose while riding.

7. Once you are in the saddle, double-check that the stirrup leathers are adjusted correctly and that the stirrups are hanging straight down from the saddle.

Remember, it's important to regularly check and adjust your stirrups while riding, as they may slip or stretch over time, leading to an uncomfortable or unsafe ride.