12 Best Jump Saddles Actually Worth the Money (2024)
The best jump saddles easily allow the rider to move into a two-point position and remain balanced over the jump before moving back into a seated position to head to the next jump on a course.
The forward cut, flat seat, and close contact are essential elements to move with and cue the horse.
We Recommend
Best Jump Saddle
M. Toulouse Brittany
For Showjumping
Arena Jump Saddle
Best Value for Money
Bates Hunter Jumper
Best Jump Saddles
1. M. Toulouse Brittany Platinum Close Contact Saddle
The M. Toulouse Brittany Platinum Close Contact Saddle is the best jump saddle for the money because of its careful design, adjustable tree, narrow twist, and close contact in the forward seat.
Riders can ride all day thanks to the comfortable fit panels and easily move from horse to horse while adjusting the tree on their own.
Longer panels are available for riders with a longer leg than the torso. The soft, supple leather of the M. Toulouse arrives feeling broken in, further cementing this as the best jump saddle.
It’s important to learn how to properly adjust the tree before using the saddle so as not to cause discomfort for a horse.
What We Liked
- Available with long panels for riders who are longer in the leg than the torso
- One of the closest contact saddles with a very narrow twist
- Soft leather arrives feeling broken in on this top jump saddle
- Genesis adjustable tree system allows one saddle to fit many horses
- Comfort-fit panels assure riders of a poised and secure seat
What Can Be Improved
- Riders need to be skilled in setting the adjustable tree correctly for their horses
- White stitching stands out against the dark brown leather
- The saddle is designed for jumping; won’t work well in other disciplines
Type: Close Contact Saddle
Weight: About 15 lbs
Seat Size: 16.5’’ to 18.5”
Gullet With: 6.5’’ to 8’’
2. Arena Jump Saddle
The Arena Jump Saddle is considered the best showjumping saddle by many of the top competitors in the sport.
It provides close contact in a forward seat, with short stirrup bars and flaps to keep the rider and horse well connected.
This saddle is also ideal for beginners in the sport, as it supports the correct position with minimal effort.
Limited seat sizes are available, and this saddle will probably only fit tall teens and adults but is the perfect choice when a show jumping saddle is needed.
The durable European leather is high-quality and can withstand numerous rides over countless years.
What We Liked
- Provides a deep, balanced seat with minimal effort from the rider to remain poised
- Forward panels allow riders to seamlessly adjust their position throughout the course
- Shorter stirrup bar and flap for precise movement
- HART technology and an adjustable gullet system allow the saddle to fit many horses
- Beautifully crafted with durable European leather
What Can Be Improved
- Limited to four seat sizes from 16.5” to 18”
- It’s a beautiful saddle that you may not want to use for everyday schooling
- Girth, stirrups, and stirrup leathers are sold separately
Weight: 13 lbs
Seat Size: 16.5’’ to 18’’
Gullet With: 8.3” to 9.6”
3. Bates Hunter Jumper Saddle
The Bates Hunter Jumper Saddle is a quality jump saddle at an economical price point. It can easily take a rider to the highest levels of the sport or help a beginner learn the ins and outs of show jumping.
The saddle comes with an adjustable gullet system to fit a variety of horses, although extra gullet sizes need to be purchased separately.
The ergonomic and innovative design helps keep the rider balanced throughout the course and supported in a comfortable seat that facilitates proper equitation, making this the best hunter jumper saddle.
The drop panel design is ideal for horses with high withers and short triple girth points, providing flexibility in fit.
What We Liked
- A supportive seat that helps the rider transition weight to their inner thigh
- Drop panel point fits horses with high withers well
- Allows the horse to freely move through the shoulders while still providing close contact
- Ergonomic stirrup bars ensure riders are comfortable with minimal knee or ankle pain
- Short triple girth points offer the versatility of fit on different horses
What Can Be Improved
- Brown is the only color, similar to most jump saddles
- Only comes with one gullet (the black medium) and others need to be purchased
- Stirrup keeper only fits narrow leathers
Weight: 12.3 lbs
Seat Size: 16.5’’ to 18’’
Gullet With: 8.3” to 9.6”
4. Wintec Pro Jump HART
Wintec saddles took the horse world by storm in the late 1980s and have made significant strides since to provide quality saddles at an affordable price.
The Wintec Pro Jump HART saddle is everything that the professional equestrian needs to head into the show jumping ring.
This English jumping saddle has a close contact, a forward seat, ergonomic stirrup bars, and easy change gullet system to fit a variety of horses.
Some riders prefer a leather saddle, and if that’s the case, this isn’t the saddle for you. The Performance Panel Technology supports the horse’s movement while the rider will enjoy the Comfort Seat Technology.
What We Liked
- Adjustable girth and billet system allow riders to further customize the saddle
- Performance Panel Technology supports the horse’s natural movement
- An adjustable tree so that it can fit a variety of horses for the pro rider
- Two colors, it’s available in black and brown
- It’s a synthetic saddle so it doesn’t matter if it gets wet
What Can Be Improved
- The saddle isn’t made of leather and that bothers some equestrians
- Higher cantle than some other jump saddles limits some movement
- Only three sizes are available, the 16.5-inch through the 17.5-inch
Weight: 13.2 lbs
Seat Size: 16.5’’ to 17.5’’
Gullet With: 8.3’’ to 10’’
5. M. Toulouse Bretta Pro Close Contact Saddle
M. Toulouse incorporates the narrow twist and close contact of the French saddle style into their tack, and the M. Toulouse Bretta Pro Close Contact is another excellent example of their craftsmanship.
The saddle has the Genesis adjustable tree, centered and balanced seat, narrow twist, and blocks to provide the rider with control, contact, and security.
It’s an expensive jumping saddle but that’s because it incorporates all the latest technology and comes from the best jump saddle brand.
The saddle arrives feeling like it’s already broken in and the foam panels make the rider feel like they are riding on a supportive cloud.
What We Liked
- It’s a monoflap jump saddle so provides an even closer contact
- Knee and thigh blocks are sewn in to help keep the rider secure
- The rich chocolate color of the saddle is distinct and beautiful
- An extremely narrow twist in the classic French style
- Comfort Fit foam panels ensure the rider has a soft and secure ride
What Can Be Improved
- Deeper seat than the Brittany and other M. Toulouse jump saddles
- Higher price point than other jumping saddle brands
- The tree only has a five-year limited warranty that is for manufacturer defects
Type: Close Contact Saddle
Weight: 15 lbs
Seat Size: 16.5’’ to 18.5’’
Gullet With: 6.5’’ to 8’’
6. Bates Caprilli Close Contact Saddle
The Bates Caprilli Close Contact Saddle is a classic and remains popular because of the exceptionally close contact it offers jump riders with their horses.
Riders love the fit on the horses with high withers that dominate the jumping arenas, and the adjustable tree system means that the same saddle can be used on multiple mounts.
This saddle doesn’t work as well on horses without prominent withers and can slip on them.
Further customization is available through the billet and girth system and comfort is ensured with the CAIR Cushion system.
The ergonomic stirrup bars reduce unnecessary strain on the rider’s knees and ankles, while quilted panel points reduce stress on the horse.
What We Liked
- Especially engineered jumping English saddle for precision and performance
- Offers riders closer contact with their horse
- Up to six gullet sizes are available using the adjustable tree system
- Ideal for horses with high and prominent withers because of the drop panel point
- Panel points are quilted to reduce any unnecessary pressure on the horse
What Can Be Improved
- The Havana brown color appears two-toned and looks like two different colors
- It doesn’t fit horses with low or mutton withers as well as horses with high withers
- Limited seat sizes are available, with only three
Type: Close Contact Saddle
Weight: 12.3 lbs
Seat Size: 16.5’’ to 18’’
Gullet With: 8.3” to 9.6”
7. Arena All Purpose Saddle
Arena is fast making a name for itself as a jumping saddle brand and their All Purpose Saddle is one of the reasons why.
This is an ideal saddle for those new to jumping because they can use the saddle to explore other disciplines or enjoy their horse if jumping isn’t their thing.
Those that do continue pursuing jumping will find that the all-purpose saddle is comfortable and balanced for their pursuits.
This model doesn’t have a flat seat and forward position of saddles designed specifically for jumping, but its functionality still allows jumping to happen.
The high-quality saddle is durable enough to withstand ongoing and rigorous use in a variety of conditions.
What We Liked
- Also available as a separate model with a wide tree or high-wither
- Comfortable and secure seat makes the rider feel that they are connected to their horse
- High-quality and durable to withstand a lot of use
- Comes in two colors, either black or brown
- It’s an all-purpose saddle and could be used for dressage or trail too
What Can Be Improved
- Higher cantle and pommel than we normally like on a jumping saddle
- Not as close contact with the horse as some other jumping saddles
- Knee roll does not position the rider as far forward
Type: All Purpose Saddle
Weight: 13 lbs
Seat Size: 16.5’’ to 18’’
Gullet With: 8.3” to 9.6”
8. Bates Elevation+ Rear FB CAIR
Among the higher echelons of competition, many consider the Bates Elevation+ Rear FB CAIR the best jumping saddle because of its unique design and innovations.
This saddle incorporates all the features that one now expects in a jumping saddle, from the ergonomic stirrup bars to quilted panel points that eliminate chafing.
Although this saddle has a deeper seat than we like in a jumping saddle, it’s offset by other quality features.
The anatomically shaped tree prevents the saddle from lifting off the horse’s back, making this a unique saddle among jumpers.
The recessed stirrup channel further reduces friction, while the knee blocks provide extra support.
What We Liked
- The seat has adequate space behind the rider for comfortable landing
- Double-lined leather provides the rider with extra grip in the saddle
- An anatomically shaped tree provides greater freedom to the horse’s shoulders and conforms to its back without lifting while jumping
- Knee inserts are molded and provide support
- The recessed stirrup channel doesn’t interfere with the rider’s leg
What Can Be Improved
- This saddle has a deeper seat and some riders feel it restricts their movement
- Only comes with the medium gullet; other sizes need to be purchased separately
- It doesn’t fit horses with flat withers as well
Type: English Saddle
Weight: 14.3 lbs
Seat Size: 16.5’’ to 17.5’’
Gullet With: 8.3” to 9.6”
9. Wintec 500 Jump HART
The Wintec 500 Jump HART is the best jump saddle for beginners because of its economical price point, synthetic materials, sleek and quality design, and deep, balanced seat.
Riders at all levels of the sport feel comfortable and confident enough to take on any course of fences, and the saddle can be customized to fit the horse and rider through several features.
The thigh support is adjustable and customizable and further enhances the rider’s feeling of security, along with the deeper seat that isn’t found in other jump saddles.
One challenge with synthetic material is that it gets heavy when wet, and hard to dry out.
What We Liked
- A deep seat helps the rider feel secure in the saddle while still having close contact
- Offers a quality saddle to everyone from beginners to the highest levels of the sport
- Thigh support is adjustable and customizable for rider preference
- A cheap jumping saddle that is affordable for anyone
- Ergonomic flex in the tree provides superior fit
What Can Be Improved
- Extra flap and blocks diminish some of the contact with the horse
- The deep seat can make it harder for comfortably landing after a jump
- Soaks up water when wet and gets heavy
Weight: 13.2 lbs
Seat Size: 16.5’’ to 17.5’’
Gullet With: 8.3’’ to 10’’
10. Bates All Purpose Heritage SC Saddle
The Bates All Purpose Heritage SC Saddle is a comfortable saddle for a jumping rider at any level, with its square cantle and comfortable seat, and supportive stirrup bar that helps the rider stay secure and in close contact with their horse. This is a comfortable saddle that’s equally good out hacking the trails.
One area that could be improved is that the rider isn’t in as forward a seat as a jumping or close contact saddle, but this is an all-purpose saddle. The variety of seat sizes available and adjustable features make it a great choice for equestrians at all levels.
What We Liked
- The ergonomic stirrup bar reduces the amount of bulk under a rider’s leg
- The square cantle is comfortable while jumping a course of fences
- Comfortable saddle for longer rides and hacking out as well as jumping
- The girth points have a balance fitting option
- Available in five seat sizes from 16.5-inches up to 18-inches
What Can Be Improved
- Doesn’t position the rider as far forward as a jumping saddle
- The rider’s leg can snag against the stirrup leather holder while jumping
- Only comes with one gullet size, the medium, on all saddles
Type: English Saddle
Weight: 13.7 lbs
Seat Size: 16.5’’ to 18’’
Gullet With: 8.3” to 9.6”
11. M. Toulouse Annice Pro Close Contact Saddle with Genesis Tree
The M. Toulouse Annice Pro is the best close contact saddle because of its innovative design, close contact, and the Genesis Tree that allows the saddle to be used on horses of all shapes and sizes.
The feather touch print on this leather offers extra grip to riders and the medium-deep seat provides more security. It’s show ring ready with beautiful craftsmanship and quality
Although this saddle is extremely popular with hunter and equitation riders, it’s not the preferred choice in the jumper classes, but can be used.
When all is said and done, M. Toulouse offers the best jump horse saddle, no matter which of their models you choose.
What We Liked
- It has a medium twist instead of the extremely narrow twist of other models
- Popular with hunter and equitation riders because it helps the rider maintain form
- Darker leather hides any blemishes
- The medium-deep seat keeps the rider securely in the saddle
- A 19-inch seat size is available, it’s one of few models to offer this size
What Can Be Improved
- Not the best model for the jumper classes, it’s better for hunters or equitation
- Very pretty and show ring ready; may not want to use it as a schooling saddle
- Limited warranty only covers manufacturing defects
Type: Close Contact Saddle
Weight: 15 lbs
Seat Size: 16.5’’ to 19”
Gullet With: 6.5’’ to 8’’
12. Bates Pony Elevation+ Saddle
Ponies need their own jump saddles and the Bates Pony Elevation+ Saddle is the solution – it has all the features we love best in the Elevation+ saddle designed specifically for the unique shape and stride of a pony.
Riders will feel secure in the saddle thanks to the close contact, deep seat, and grippy double-lined leather.
This is a pony saddle, and those with horses need to look at the regular-sized Bates Elevation+ Saddle.
Both versions provide a comfortable fit and freedom of movement in the shoulder that’s ideal for a jumping saddle, using the latest innovations and technology.
The CAIR cushion system ensures horse and rider comfort.
What We Liked
- All the features we love best in the Elevation+ saddle designed for a pony
- Double-lined leather improves grip in the saddle
- The deep seat provides more landing space for the rider on the descent of a jump
- The pony has plenty of freedom of movement through the shoulder thanks to the design
- Keeps the rider in close contact
What Can Be Improved
- Some riders may not want the deeper seat that the Elevation+ offers
- Riders need to purchase additional gullet sizes
- It’s a pony saddle, so this option isn’t available to horses
Type: English Saddle
Weight: 14.3 lbs
Seat Size: 15’’ to 16’’
Gullet With: 8.3” to 9.6”
How to Choose a jump Saddle?
Jump saddles should be chosen that provide the rider with close contact, a forward seat, and freedom of movement from the sitting to jumping position.
Fit
Saddle fit should be the highest priority, and the fit of both the horse and the rider needs to be considered. Saddles with adjustable trees are popular because riders can use one saddle that fits them on a variety of horses. Improper saddle fit can at best diminish performance and at worst cause injuries to the horse.
Close Contact
Close contact is important in a jump saddle because it allows the rider to feel the horse, accurately cue them for the next jump or movement, and freely move with the horse as they go through the course. Close contact is done through the design and the rider’s position in the saddle.
Flat Seat
Riders need a flat seat in a jumping saddle so that they can remain balanced in both the sitting and forward positions, while also quickly and easily moving from one position to the other. The flat seat doesn’t hit the rider as they are moving over obstacles with their horse.
Forward Position
The forward position is crucial in a jump saddle because it keeps the rider moving with the horse’s momentum, meaning they do not get left behind or hinder the horse’s motion. The forward seat allows the rider to move up over the horse’s withers and point of balance to allow the hind end to push off for the jump.
Quality
Riders should always consider quality when purchasing a jump saddle. A high-quality saddle will be designed better to fit the horse and rider, and also last longer, therefore costing less money in the long term. Quality saddles also use the newest technology to help improve performance. Look for quality in the materials, design, and craftsmanship.
FAQ
What is a jump saddle?
A jump saddle is a type of English saddle specifically designed for going over obstacles on horseback.
What is different about a jump saddle?
Jump saddles are different because they have a more forward cut, flatter seat, and shorter flaps to provide close contact.
What makes a good jump saddle?
A good jump saddle keeps the rider balanced as they move between the sitting and jumping positions over a course of fences.
Are jump saddles heavy?
Jump saddles are usually lightweight at around 15 pounds.
Are jump saddles comfortable?
Jump saddles are comfortable if you are moving over obstacles, however not the best choice for an all-day trail ride.
What’s the difference between a cutting saddle and a jump saddle?
A cutting saddle is a western saddle for sorting cattle whereas a jump saddle is an English saddle for jumping obstacles.
Can you do cutting in a jump saddle?
Cutting in a jump saddle isn’t recommended. The quick movements of cutting may unseat a rider in a jump saddle.
What is the point of the sliding stop in jump?
A sliding stop in a jumping competition is called a refusal. Horses are eliminated from the competition if they refuse to jump.
