ABOUT US

Paul and Ashley Yanke developed OnTyte® Magnetic Stirrup System® based on their love of riding and experience in show jumping.

Paul grew up in a horse-loving family in Milwaukee, showing in the Junior Jumpers, then progressing to Amateur Jumpers, where he rode with Laura Kraut until he graduated from college. After graduation he hung up his show boots and entered the family manufacturing business, gaining valuable experience in engineering, production and sourcing that has proved invaluable in the development on OnTyte.

Ashley started her career at a young age showing hunters and jumpers with Reagan Roberts in Little Rock. She followed her passion of riding to Wisconsin where she met Paul while working for Ellen VanDyke and Donald Cheska. In 2001, Ashley went to work for Laura Kraut, where she remained until “retiring” from a day to day job, remaining available to help Laura as needed.

The idea of a magnetic stirrup was first conceived by Paul’s aunt, Patty VanHousen. Patty is an adult jumper rider who found losing stirrups had become a problem when she returned to riding after lengthy injury. Patty beta-tested the earliest prototype, and found, in her words “It allowed me to ride better.”

At WEF in 2008, Paul and Ashley presented the magnetic stirrup concept to Laura Kraut. At her request, a series of ever improving prototypes were developed for her to try, leading to the final design that’s been launched as the OnTyte Magnetic Stirrup System.

Paul and Ashley now live in Arkansas with their five dogs, three cats and many horses, and are continuing to explore other riding accessories that help riders improve their performance. They extend their deepest thanks to Laura Kraut for all of her support, knowledge, and most of all, her friendship.