Stirrup Length

I am new to western riding and was wondering if there was a way that you could check to see if the stirrups are the right length from the ground so that you don't have to hop on and off to adjust them. Also, I noticed that western riders seem to have their legs straighter than english riders--is this the case?

Well, you can always have a buddy fix the stirrup length while you're in the saddle. And, yes, thankfully our legs are nice and straight. When you get in the saddle one way to check length is to stand in the stirrups. It should lift you only a bit above the saddle.

Also, when your sitting in the saddle with your back straight and shoulders back, glance down to your foot without moving your head you should be able to see your toe lined up with your knee. That's how you know your leg is in the right position but be sure just the ball of your foot is in the stirrup and not the whole foot.

There is but I am not sure how to type it all out .... hmm let me search I think I seen it somewhere...

How To Determine Correct Stirrup Length

Awesome Link!

Before I pulled the fenders down on my saddle, the stirrups on my saddle were pretty close to perfect ON THE STAND. On the horse was another issue. They were too short; I know the added girth of the horse shortened them up a bit.

So, I'm wondering, is there anything I can do at home, seen's how I have my saddle in from the barn for the time being, to be able to measure how long I'll need the stirrups when on the horse? Maybe measure out my stirrups on the stand and then lengthen them by a hole to add for the horse? IDK?

Do you have a 55 gallon drum?? If so put it on that and measur ethem as abovve or by sitting on it LOL

LOL The closest I have is an LP tank, I think?

If you use your LP tank.. I want pictures!!!!! Hahahahaha

It would work if it is a BIG one LOL ... altough I have found I have to adjust my stirrups from horse to horse as well so.... who knows I have honestly never found a perfect way to get them adjusted ... the armpit method is close but does not work on every horse...