US Equestrian has updated its stirrup and saddle attachment rules to ensure the highest level of safety possible for USEF members at sanctioned competitions. While there is always the risk of accidents in equestrian sport, the amendments aim to reduce injury for horses and riders. 

Effective Dec. 1, 2025, rule GR801 regarding saddle attachments states that no piece of equipment shall be attached to a saddle that has a rigid upward pointing projection, hook, or similar object capable of catching a rider’s clothing or person when dismounting, including stirrups.  

For the 2026 competition year, USEF officials shall issue a verbal or recorded warning for the use of non-compliant stirrups to ensure awareness. Beginning Dec. 1, 2026, the rule will be enforced in the manner outlined within each breed or discipline chapter for the use of prohibited tack or equipment. 

The new rule is to prevent incidents such as riders getting their clothing caught on the hook part of stirrup (or any other item attached to the saddle) as they dismount. 

In addition, if the rider does fall off and the horse subsequently runs loose with an exposed hook or attachment banging their side, they may also suffer cuts from the sharp edges of the hooks.  

The style of safety stirrups that are recommended are those that have closed branches when the release mechanism is not activated, or have an outside branch with a gap that fully aligns with the outside plane of the stirrup. If there is a gap when not activated, it must lie inside the plane of the stirrup.  

There are a number of different brands, price points, and designs of stirrups that comply with these guidelines, and USEF encourages members to prioritize safety when buying new tack, while also consulting with a professional.  

“We have seen that these types of stirrups are increasingly popular,” said Lauren Donohue, tack merchant at Dover Saddlery. Donohue stated that equipment is a personal choice, and riders should make the choice that is best for them and their safety.  

Members are encouraged to carefully read the rules regarding stirrups for their specific breed or discipline in the USEF Rulebook at usef.org/compete/regulation/rulebook. if specific breed or discipline chapters have more stringent rules regarding the use of certain stirrups, those rules prevail.