About the tester: Laura is Redpost’s Merchandising & Promotions Lead. She enjoys taking part in veteran showing classes and fun rides with her ex-team chase horse, Bailey.
About the Product
The Tech Stirrups Siena Plus are a high quality design, engineered from recyclable and eco-sustainable metal. Created mainly for use when jumping, features include an inclined footbed with triangle-shaped teeth, plus four shock absorbers positioned to reduce fatigue.
Laura’s Review
From when I first learnt to ride (all those years ago!) I have always ridden in standard metal fillis stirrups, so I was extremely interested to try a ‘modern’ design to see if they would make a noticeable difference to my riding. Wanting to keep a traditional look so that I could use the same pair of stirrups for everyday schooling, showing and competing, Redpost suggested I try the Tech Siena Plus Stirrups. These are designed with a ‘classic’ frame (without a safety release arm), with 4-shock absorbing inserts and a 5° inclined footbed.
Straight out of the box these stirrups instantly impressed me. They have a high quality feel, a sleek appearance, and they aren’t too weighty compared to other modern stirrups I have looked at. The ‘left’ and ‘right’ labelling was very helpful to make sure I could easily secure them to my saddle on the correct sides, to ensure the angled footbed on each stirrup iron was properly positioned.
How did you test stirrups?
The first time I rode in the Siena Plus Stirrups was schooling in the field at my yard. Straightaway I found that these stirrups gave me more stability and my lower leg felt more secure. I feel this is due to the footbed being wider than the fillis stirrups I have previously used, and thanks to Tech’s triangle-shaped spiked grip which kept my feet exactly where they should be at all times. It was also interesting to see that the angle of the footbed has helped to improve my overall position when jumping, as I have noticed that I feel more balanced over a fence.
Since getting these stirrups over two months ago, I have used them every time I have ridden; out hacking, cross country schooling, on fun rides and showing at agricultural shows – I honestly can’t fault them. The metal they are made from (which I have since found out is recyclable and eco-sustainable – a big thumbs up!) is extremely durable and hard wearing. Plus, it is easy to clean with a damp cloth so the stirrups still look brand new.
Having no health problems with my knees or ankles, I’m unable to give any feedback on whether the shock absorption would be beneficial for issues such as these, however the shock absorbers do give a sense of ‘lightness’ when riding, which makes them exceptionally comfortable.
Would you recommend to a friend?
It also isn’t just me who rates these Tech Stirrups! While I was away on holiday a friend exercised Bailey for me and rode in these stirrups – she also loved them. She rides in traditional fillis stirrups, and commented that the Tech Siena were ‘extremely lightweight yet stable’ and ‘look really smart.’
Any other feedback?
Before testing the Tech Siena Plus Stirrups, I will admit that I was sceptical about the difference that a modern pair of stirrups would make. However, since trialling them I do think these are certainly worth the investment. Moving to a design that has been made with rider comfort and performance in mind has made a noticeable difference to my riding, and so I would recommend them to riders of all levels.
