Is my life really worth $400?

Hey guys. Today’s blog will be about a growing thing in the horse world, breakaway stirrups. There are many types out there depending on riders preference, however there are some that look like they would not hold up very well and some that would, but are outrageously priced. So here is the question, would you rather pay what seems to be a fair amount of money for a piece of equipment that could not hold up or would you rather pay hundreds more for the same type of product? Let’s take a look at a few common products.
Just so that everyone knows first off that breakaway stirrups are designed to release when the rider’s foot is at or more than a 72 degree angle. From there the top bar of the stirrup will release preventing the rider from being dragged and from risking great injury or even death. Thanks to wzwz666’s video on YouTube, here is what a dragging looks like. Thankfully the rider was ok.

First let’s look at the Abetta breakaway stirrups. These have shock resistant stuff in them to prevent the foot from going to far forward. However they are rather cheapey looking. Not that style matters over safety, but they look like a child’s toy. Come on here makers, can’t we get a little more professional than that? Picture thanks to https://greenrivertack.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=21_128


Now let’s look at the STI stirrups. These stirrups appeal to me because not only are they safe, but stylish. However one thing that is not cool is the price. Most of them are $400 for a pair. Good golly, for that much I could buy a whole other saddle for that price. Since when does safety have to cost that much? I think that’s insane for people to pay that much for something to save their life. Maybe it’s just me, but that crazy! Picture thanks to http://www.breakawaystirrups.com/www/breakaway_stirrup_styles.html


All in all safety always prevails in the horse world. Just which stirrup to buy, I am not sure. What do you guys think I should go with?