Leveling Up Your Ride: The Game Changing Technology of Nettles Stirrups

This blog is all about the unparalleled craftsmanship and innovation behind Nettles Stirrups. As we delve into the story behind these iconic stirrups, crafted by Hall of Fame Cutting Horse trainer Ronnie Nettles, we uncover a legacy steeped in passion, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. From their humble beginnings as a solution to a rocking horse conundrum to their evolution into a globally recognized brand, Nettles Stirrups have earned a reputation for unparalleled comfort, durability, and performance. From their patented leveler technology to their meticulous construction process, discover why they stand as the stirrups of choice for riders worldwide.

History of Nettles Stirrups

The history of Nettles Stirrups is a testament to the ingenuity and passion of Hall of Fame Cutting Horse trainer Ronnie Nettles. Situated halfway between the bustling cities of Houston and Dallas, the Nettles Ranch serves as a vibrant hub of equestrian activity and craftsmanship. 

The genesis of Nettles Stirrups can be traced back to a pivotal moment in December 1986, when Gala Nettles (wife of Ronnie) sought the perfect Christmas gift—a rocking horse for her grandson. Ronnie, a skilled artisan as well as a seasoned horseman, took on the challenge.. As he poured his creativity and expertise into crafting the rocking horse, inspiration struck. The process of building laminated oak stirrups for the rocking horse sparked an idea that would revolutionize the riding experience. Faced with the discomfort of traditional stirrups causing raw shins and foot fatigue, Ronnie envisioned a stirrup that not only alleviated pain but also enhanced balance and stability in the saddle.

Drawing upon his decades of experience in the saddle, Ronnie set out to design a stirrup that prioritized both comfort and performance. The result was a groundbreaking innovation that combined innovative design with traditional craftsmanship. Utilizing the lamination method for its durability and cushioning effect, Ronnie crafted the first pair of Nettles Stirrups from the only oak available—a wheelbarrow handle. From these humble beginnings, Nettles Stirrups has grown into a globally recognized brand, renowned for its quality and innovation.

Today, under the stewardship of Ronnie's son, Robby, Nettles Stirrups continues to uphold its legacy of excellence, providing riders around the world with unparalleled comfort, performance, and safety in the saddle.

Why Choose Nettles Stirrups?

When it comes to choosing the right stirrups, Nettles Stirrups stands head and shoulders above the rest. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail and unparalleled craftsmanship, Nettles Stirrups offer a level of comfort and performance that is second to none. At the core of their design is a commitment to quality, evident in every step of the manufacturing process. From the selection of premium oak logs to the intricate lamination and assembly, each pair of Nettles Stirrups is crafted to withstand the rigors of the saddle and provide lasting comfort for riders of all levels.

One of the key features that sets Nettles Stirrups apart is their innovative design, engineered to eliminate common discomforts experienced by riders. The unique layering process not only provides strength and durability but also cushions the pounding on a rider’s hips, knees, and feet, ensuring a more comfortable ride. Additionally, the carefully structured stirrup tread sets the rider’s foot and aids with balance, promoting a more secure and stable position in the saddle.

Nettles Stirrups are also built with safety in mind. Constructed from the finest quality oak logs and reinforced with double steel rollers, these stirrups offer unmatched strength and stability. The laminated construction eliminates the risk of cracking, while the smaller throat diameter helps to alleviate shin pressure—a common source of discomfort.

Check out this stirrup sitting underneath the tire of a dually pickup - now that's strength!

Ultimately, choosing Nettles Stirrups means choosing safety, comfort, and performance. With their unwavering commitment to quality and innovation, Nettles Stirrups provide riders with the confidence and security they need to enjoy every moment in the saddle. Whether you're navigating rough terrain or competing at the highest level, Nettles Stirrups are the trusted choice of riders worldwide.

How To Pick The Right Size of Nettles

Determining the best size stirrup is essential for a comfortable and secure ride. The right stirrup should feel like an extension of your foot, allowing it to slide in and out with ease while ensuring that it sits snugly in the middle without rubbing against the sides. Much like your favorite pair of shoes, the perfect stirrup should minimize foot ache and fatigue, providing support and stability. It should rest comfortably against your leg, enhancing your overall comfort and control in the saddle. Beyond functionality, the ideal stirrup should also reflect your personal style, with a design that appeals to you aesthetically. Finding the perfect balance between form and function, the tread width should feel just right—not too bulky or too skinny—providing a secure foothold without feeling cumbersome.

We get lots of questions about the difference in size between the Regular and Petite Barrel Racer Stirrups. From our experience, if you wear a size 8 shoe or smaller, we recommend going with the petite size. If you have bigger feet, then the Regulars will work best! This is our general rule - of course everyone has different preferences on how they like their stirrups to feel. We've included the dimensions of each size below to help you decide as well as a photo comparison:

Regular: 5″ tall x 5 3/8″ wide

Petite: 4.5″ tall x 4 3/4″ wide

Benefits of the Nettles Leveler

The Nettles patented Leveler represents a significant enhancement to an already exceptional product. Designed to address common issues such as ankle and knee pain caused by twisted stirrup leathers, the Leveler offers riders a newfound level of comfort and stability in the saddle. By replacing the roller in a stirrup's throat, the Leveler ensures that the stirrup remains level with the foot at all times, eliminating any tilting that may disrupt body alignment.

This small yet crucial adjustment not only minimizes discomfort but also promotes better balance and posture, reducing the risk of ankle, knee, and hip pain. The Leveler helps to alleviate common issues such as shin pressure, foot fatigue, and aching ankles.

With leveled stirrups that float with the foot and conform to the rider's movements, individuals can experience a smoother and more secure ride. Moreover, the Leveler encourages a balanced and level stance, ensuring that the boot sits flat on the tread, thus reducing the likelihood of losing a stirrup during intense maneuvers. We have had lots of feedback from barrel racers telling us they np longer have to rubber band their feet after getting a pair of these stirrups! By reducing the chance of losing a stirrup, riders can focus more on their performance.

The Leveler is a game-changer for riders seeking to optimize their riding experience, offering a simple yet effective solution to common challenges encountered in the saddle.

In conclusion, Nettles Stirrups stand as a testament to the intersection of tradition and innovation in the world of equestrian equipment. Through decades of expertise and a relentless pursuit of perfection, Ronnie Nettles has crafted stirrups that not only meet the highest standards of quality and performance but also revolutionize the riding experience. From their patented Leveler technology to their meticulous construction process, every aspect of Nettles Stirrups reflects a deep understanding of the rider's needs and a commitment to excellence. As riders around the world continue to seek out the best in comfort, safety, and performance, Nettles Stirrups remain the unrivaled choice, embodying the pinnacle of craftsmanship and innovation in the equestrian industry.

Leanin' Pole Arena always has a wide variety of Nettles Stirrups in stock to choose from - from Barrel Racers and Ropers to Flatbottoms, Chisolms, and Overshoe. As always, feel free to email us or message us on Facebook if you have more questions or need help picking out the perfect pair for yourself!