Ophena: The game-changing stirrups that have every equestrian talking.

Product Name: Ophena S Pro Stirrups

Brand: Ophena

Price: $$$$

Looks like someone’s changing the game — or is it game over? Here’s my very honest thoughts on the Ophena S Pro Magnetic Safety Stirrups.

Design & Functionality

There’s no denying that Ophena is very demure. The Ophena S Pro Stirrups are beautiful, modern, and sleek. They even come in different finishes: silver, gunmetal, and rose gold.

But when it comes to the Ophena S Pro Stirrups, it’s not just about looks. I put them to the test to see how they perform in the arena, in the field, and everywhere in between. No, really, I took one for the team and ate serious dirt to formulate a thorough review.

Magnetic Strength

I tried both the the Standard and the Plus insoles ($15 to add-on). The difference is the magnet strength. The Standard insoles are 5mm thick and the Plus insoles are 6mm thick. Overall, I noticed a pretty minor difference. The stirrups are really strong overall. I tried them during flatwork and during a jumping lesson. They really have strop grip and do not move at all. I don’t feel like there is something stuck to my foot or weighing my foot down either, which was my concern. I will be opting for the Plus insoles though since I jump big and I have a green horse. The more magnetic strength in my favour, the better!

Balance & Stability

I have a very stable lower leg and an independent seat to start with. I also ride bareback and tackless often, so I do not rely on my stirrups. They are just an aid. I felt the stirrups did their job, keeping my leg in place and keeping me balanced and secure. I actually felt a bit lighter in the saddle.

Safety

Safety is the biggest selling point with these stirrups. I had a scary experience in early 2024 where my foot got caught in the stirrup and I was almost dragged. Luckily, that was not the outcome but it nearly was. I love that I have peace of mind with these stirrups. When I get on my horse, I know for sure I will not get caught in my stirrups. It is one of my worst fears, so eliminating that is worth more than money can buy. I said before that I feel lighter in the saddle. I was not sure why, but as I write this I think that lightness may not be physical, but mentally and emotionally lighter.

How did the stirrups fare when it mattered most?

Yes, I took one for the team and ate serious dirt so I could give you a thorough, honest review. I hope you’re happy! Jokes aside, the stirrups delivered. The released easily, and I fell quickly and painlessly…for the most part. I honestly didn’t notice I was even falling until I looked down and I was sitting on fillers instead of my horse. My coach said I fell in slow-motion. I didn’t have to worry about getting caught up in the stirrups or dragged, which was good.

Value for Money

Are the Ophena S Pro Stirrups worth every penny, or does it come with a case of sticker shock?

They are really wonderful stirrups, extremely innovative and inevitably safe for involuntarily dismounts. However, with the $639 CAD price tag you really have to love them. Lucky for you, Ophena has a 60-day money-back guarantee. You have 60-days to test out the stirrups and return them for a full refund, which I think is a very fair amount of time to formulate your decision.

They also have a cheaper option, the Ophena S stirrups which are only $439 CAD. Ophena S has a tread made of glass fibre-reinforced plastics. Ophena S Pro features an aluminium tread with a more grippy surface. Both products have the same magnetic system and other features, but the Ophena S Pro gives you even more grip. I cannot say whether or not I find a difference between the products since I have only tried the Ophena S Pro. But if you want more grip, the Pro may be the way to go if you are willing to spend another $200 CAD.

Final Verdict

So, are Ophena S Pro Stirrups changing the game for every equestrian, or should they be on your “better luck next time” list? I’d say give them a try. I really love them. The design, the function, the safety; there are many pros. The only con is the price tag. But in hindsight, it’s a small price to pay for your safety and your life.

Rating: ★★★★★

Before you trot off, don’t be shy — drop your thoughts in the comments. I know you’ve got something to say… After all, the best gossip is always shared.

xoxo,
Marina.