Kvall stirrups - opinions?

[MiJodsR2BlinkinTite]

Sorry don't know how to post link.

But..... anyone got them?

Anyone used them?

Pro's? Con's?

I've heard they're supposed to be especially good with disabled riders and/or those with lower leg mobility/stability issues. But IMO they're an awful lot of money; however would be interested in other people's experiences/opinions.

 

[rhino]

Jen_Cots is involved with the company somehow, think they were trying to get them approved for affiliated competition... They look 'interesting' but luckily not something I have any real need of.

Here's one of her old posts
http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=365605&highlight=kvall

 

[flyingfeet]

I've got them

My parent who are occasional riders (once a quarter!) love them as they often save you should you horse:

- stumble to their knees on tarmac skinning both knees, because someone was lurking in their own garden (was very pleased mum didn't eat tarmac face first)

- Shoot off sideways because of killer partridges, despite being a 16 yo home bred who ought to know better and supposed to be looking after mum

- Get completely wound up and go sideways because our lovely neighbour lets his pigs roam loose over another farmers land with Dad

Actually I'm beginning to think I shouldn't take my parents out hacking


The k'vall allows you to balance much better as you are not relying on keeping balance on a bar, and can use your entire foot as you do every day. The other thing is due to this you don't have to "force" the heels down, but weirdly when I swap back to normal sitrrups it comes more easily - haven't been able to explain that one

 

[MiJodsR2BlinkinTite]

Ah yes, thank you for that.

Mmmmm, am not sure, would need a bit more convincing I think, tho' can see how they might be useful for RDA or riders with a particular need for more stability or what-have-you.

I've got some lovely endurance (caged) stirrups which I use, which I love to bits and are soooo comfy.

 

[flyingfeet]

I wouldn't pigeon hole them for RDA, as the majority of riders would benefit from the extra stability the kvall give you.

Can any rider logically answer why we balance on a bar?

Even cyclist use a wider platform and clip their feet in.

The other thing is with the same saddle the k'vall have been shown to improve your centre of gravity and pressure points

Rising Trot

Canter