How to Pre-Twist Stirrups

New saddles often come with freshly treated leather, which must be reshaped to fit to a horse rider's body. Stirrups are one of the most challenging areas to reshape on a saddle, and may require up to a week of twisting to stay in place. Stirrups often come with the holes for the feet facing out rather than forward. Pre-twisting stirrups while the saddle is not in use is the most effective way to turn them.

Things You'll Need

  • Broom handle or 2 x 4 board
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the saddle on a sturdy saddle stand where it can rest without danger of falling.

    • 2

      Twist both stirrups so that the edge of the stirrup, which initially faced front, now faces away from the body of the saddle. The holes through which the feet rest while riding should be facing toward the front of the saddle.

    • 3

      Push a broom handle or a 2 x 4 board through one stirrup and underneath the saddle. Push the handle or board through the opposite stirrup and allow the stirrups to stay in this position.

    • 4

      Keep the broom handle or board placed in the stirrups to turn them until they face forward on their own.