OVERVIEW:
I’m excited to add yet another product review, and since we’ve getting into the real riding season I’m sharing a piece of tack that I LOVE. It’s the Total Saddle Fit Stability Stirrup Leathers.
I have been using the Total Saddle Fit Leathers for years now…I first bought them for my Pessoa saddle…then a second pair for my Bates saddle. I bought a dressage saddle and bought some black ones. Now I have two black pairs for my black jump and dressage saddles.
What baffles me is how one small change to the design of the leathers…such a small piece of leather…can make such a difference. Certainly, my legs have also become more stable as I work on my riding skills…and they are more stable in proper fitting saddles and at a correct height; but I give a lot of credit to these leathers for helping me along the way. From the first day I used these stirrup leathers I noticed a difference. They don’t make miracles happen, you still need to be a solid rider, but they most definitely add some stability and security.
I’m a believer.
The original Total Saddle Fit Stability Stirrup Leathers are designed much like ordinary leathers, but the front facing part of the strap that makes contact with your leg is wider than a typical 1″ wide stirrup leather. The broader surface allows the leather to make contact with the saddle flap for more grip and stability. The wide part of the leather is made from durable buffalo hide while the thinner part of the leathers are soft calfskin wrapped around ultra-thin nylon webbing. This allows the leather to be strong but discreet/less bulky.
As a rider I don’t feel the extra wide leather, it is smooth and works well to be subtle yet effective.
The leathers are available in black and brown….and in jump (48″,54″,58″) or dressage (54″,60″,64″). Since I’m so short I ride in 48″ leathers for both jump and dressage.
I am still a fan of the original stirrup leathers but since their debut Total Saddle Fit has released several other options if you choose to peruse.
One option is the SLIM. These were released in 2022 and are designed to create even less bulk. The leathers consist of a single loop that is attached to your stirrup bar on your saddle. The bottom of the leather loops through the stirrup iron and adjusts closer to the bottom of your calf. A sleek flap allows you to tuck the access leather in so it virtually disappears. No extra leather hanging out!
I’m really interested in these leathers…I know I’m happy with my current ones but these take the design up to a whole new level. The SLIM variation adds about $50 to the cost. At the time of this writing, they retail for $199.95 while the originals go for $149.95. Both are excellent prices for the value, and I paid more for a set of leathers I didn’t like nearly as much (they were returned in exchange for TSF leathers).
Another new variation the company recently released is the Stability+ Stirrup Leathers. These are about the same price as the SLIM. The design looks more like the original but with upgraded features. First, the company tossed the buffalo hide and made the whole leather with webbing wrapped in calfskin. This reduces the stretch while increasing leg security with the softer leather. The buckle design was changed to make it sit flatter under the thigh. Finally, the Stability+ design also has an elegant stitching pattern that is aesthetically pleasing.
Yet another item I’d love to try someday if and when money allows.
PROS:
- Actually adds stability and support for the lower leg.
- Fair pricing for the quality and value of the
- Attractive
- Multiple options
CONS
- Not a replacement for proper riding
- Can be pricey if you’re comparing to standard lower end leathers (you can in fact find new leathers for $35-60).
Tips:
I have always wondered why there was a differentiation in the JUMP and DRESSAGE leathers. I happen to have black leathers and they are both JUMP due to my short inseam. As it turns out the dressage leathers have 2″ more length on the wide section of leather in order to make full contact with the saddle flap for the best security. That said, you can see in my picture above the 48″ jump leathers do cover the full length of my saddle flap and they work just fine. If you’re questioning what size to get keep this in mind as not many of you may have the stumpy leg troubles that I have.
Alternatives:
Since the debut of the original Total Saddle Fit Stirrup Leathers numerous companies have since launched their own version. Some are cheaper, some are more expensive, some might be better, some might be worse. I can’t say I’ve tried any of the competitors because I love these so much. I have a friend who seems content with her Smartpak ones, but they are new so we don’t know about their longevity.
- Freejump Pro Grip
- Ovation Wide Comfort
- Henri de Rival X-Wide
- Marcel Toulouse Comfort Width
- Smartpak Secure Leg
Final Word:
I originally bought the Total Saddle Fit Stirrups after hearing about how they work and I tend to be extra sensitive about my lower leg. I absolutely hate seeing photos of my leg mid jump and seeing it swinging back. I work hard to keep good form but things happen. And these stirrup leathers made a difference from day 1. I love them so much they are the only stirrup leather I buy.
If I have the opportunity in the future I would love to try the upgraded versions but as with most of my product reviews, I buy all of my own gear. Occasionally, a company will find my review organically and reach out later, but I aim to keep these reviews honest and authentic.
I recommend the Total Saddle Fit Stability Stirrup Leathers with this glowing review. They are subtle, strong, comfortable, and a great addition to your equipment. Whether you are a pleasure rider, hunter, jumper, eventer, dressage queen or anything in between these give you a little extra peace of mind.
Stability Stirrup Leathers – Quiet Leg & Less Bulk – Total Saddle Fit
The Green Horseman 
Leave a comment