While all horses have the ability to jump and, in entry-level settings, can compete well, if you’re looking to advance in your show jumping, having the proper horse breed can make a big difference. Some horses have better form and ability when it comes to jumping than other breeds do. Let’s look at some of the best breeds for jumping.
Trakehner
This breed is charming, energetic and loyal. They also have high stamina, which makes them an excellent choice for a jump horse. Many times this breed is seen in high level competitions, flying over horse jump coops, and it’s agility and style are hard to match.
Holsteiner
Holsteiners are gentle, but also athletic, and were bred for show jumping. While not the most popular horse breed, they are known in show jumping circles for winning high level competitions.
Oldenburg
The Oldenburg, one of the Warmblood horse breeds, is tall, strong and an excellent jumper. They are kind, intelligent horses who used to be bred for working. When crossed with other breeds, such as thoroughbreds, they became sleek and agile and made for competitions.
Irish Draught
Irish Draught horses are intelligent and easy to train, with tough hooves that protect a horse who’s discipline is jumping. They are happy to compete in multiple areas, but do well in jumping events.
Hanoverian
This horse is graceful, strong and courageous, making it a natural show jumper. They’ve excelled in top level events due to their strong hinds, versatility and boldness.
Dutch Warmblood
Dutch Warmbloods have strong, athletic bodies and were bred specifically for competing. They’re gentle and have beautiful pacing for dressage events and powerful, which makes them suited for jumping.
Selle Francais
This horse breed is kind, patient and loves people. A manageable horse is a huge part of competing in show jumping, which makes this breed an excellent choice. They are powerful and beautiful and some are bred purely for racing alone.
Thoroughbred
While thoroughbreds are typically thought of as racing horses, their power, speed and stamina make them an amazing choice for show jumping. They are spirited and intelligent, which may make them more difficult to train, but they will excel in the ring.
There are so many varieties of horse breeds. If you’re first starting out, you don’t have to worry too much about the breed, but if you want to gain access to higher level events, you may need to consider your next horse purchase carefully.