How to Measure English Stirrups

English-style stirrups need to fit closely enough that your foot doesn't slide around or slip out, but not so tightly that your foot will be trapped if you fall. Buy stirrups in person if possible, wearing the same shoes or boots you'll usually wear when riding. Test the fit on your foot before purchasing. If that's not possible, measure a pair of stirrups that fit and order the same size or measure your boot or shoe to calculate what size you need.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape or ruler
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the width of the stirrup's tread with a tape measure or ruler in inches, if you have a pair of stirrups that fit you well. Round the result to the nearest 1/4 inch. The result will be the size of the stirrups.

    • 2

      Choose the largest pair of shoes or boots that you plan to ride in, if you don't have stirrups that already fit well. Turn one boot or shoe upside down to examine the sole. Measure across the sole at the widest part of the ball of the foot in inches, using a ruler or tape measure.

    • 3

      Add one inch and round the result to the nearest 1/4 inch. The result is your stirrup size. This method is recommended by Rachel Hairston, author of "The Essentials of Horsekeeping."