I wrote about the Stability Stirrup Leathers™ last April, when the cold weather was finally breaking and we were able to get back into the saddle regularly. At the time, I found the stirrup leathers exceedingly comfortable and supportive. So I thought I'd come back here and give you a short update about how they have fared through the heat of the summer and now into late fall.
If you'd like to read my first review, click here.
Turns out, I never took them off my saddle. They've been the only stirrup leathers I've used since, and I likely will never go back to traditional leathers again, as these ones have spoiled me and increased my expectations as to what I really want in stirrup leathers. Why? Here are the top three reasons.
3. They Feel Great
I know I mentioned this last time too, but there's no other way to explain it. EVERY time I get into the saddle and the leathers disappear under my calf, it simply feels great. There's no messing around with a twisted leather, no bulk, no pinch. They're there and my legs feel great but I don't feel anything. There's nothing in the way.
2. Quiet Legs
Well, they still work that way. While I rarely notice that they're really doing anything much for me, what I DO notice is what it feels like when I ride in other saddles with normal leathers! I notice the pressure of the narrower leathers on my calves, even underneath my winter boots. I notice their looseness and the ease of the swing in especially my left leg <ugh>. I notice how most of them are so much thicker and just not. as. nice. What can I say?
1. They Still Look New!
You wouldn't believe it, but the leather has hardly scuffed, scratched, or lost its original shine. I've done very little in terms of conditioning (always run out of time - shame!) but even with normal use and storage, the leather has maintained its pliability and fine-grained, black appearance. The only difference at this point is that the leathers now have settled onto the saddle, right behind the thigh roll. And for my saddle, this means that there's a lot less scuffing marks from the stirrup leathers because they sit in their own space.
The Only Catch
In my experience, they did stretch a bit from stirrup pressure. As with all leathers, you should probably switch sides every three months or so in order to keep them evenly stretched. And you might have to eventually add new holes if you're already using the top holes, like I am.
If you'd like more details, take a look at the Total Saddle Fit website here. And happy riding! 🙂
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