July 29, 2024

Tack Tips for Hunter and Jumper Classes

Preparing for Hunter and Jumper classes involves more than just skilful riding; it's also about presenting your horse and tack in a polished, professional manner. Here's a guide to help you ensure that your tack is appropriate and well-maintained for these competitions.

General Presentation

Before diving into specific tack requirements, a good rule of thumb is that all of your tack should be clean and conditioned. Your bit, stirrups, and spurs should be polished, and your boots should shine. Your horse’s coat should be shiny and well-groomed, with neatly braided or pulled manes and tails. The Hunter ring tends to be more formal and traditional, which extends to both the rider’s attire and the horse’s tack.

Saddles

  • Hunter and Jumper Ring: A brown close contact saddle is the most commonly used. This saddle provides the rider with the close contact necessary for effective communication with the horse while jumping.

Bridles

  • Hunter Ring: Opt for a plain brown bridle with a cavesson noseband and plain leather browband, like our 'Classic' Hunter Bridle. Conservative and tasteful are the key guidelines here.
  • Jumper Ring: Similar to the Hunter ring, but jumpers often prefer a thicker padded noseband for added comfort and control.

Stirrups

  • Hunter Ring: A polished traditional stainless steel stirrup iron is recommended. Non-traditional stirrups are not grounds for elimination but can count against the rider.
  • Jumper Ring: Any style or colour of stirrup is acceptable, though conservative colours are advised at higher levels.

Reins

  • Hunter Ring: Brown braided reins are traditionally used. If double reins are required with your bit, one should be flat and the other braided.
  • Jumper Ring: Rubber reins are more commonly used for better grip and control, like our Leather & Rubber Grip Reins.

Martingales and Breastplates

  • Hunter Ring: Only standing martingales are acceptable and should match the tack and be properly fitted.
  • Jumper Ring: Running martingales are more common. Breastplates can be used in both rings but should always match the tack.

Girths

  • Hunter and Jumper Ring: Girths should match the rest of your tack. Traditionally, leather girths are preferred, but neoprene girths are now also acceptable.

Bits

  • Hunter and Jumper Ring: Bits should be conventional and humane. Snaffles, pelhams, and kimblewicks are generally permitted. In the Hunter ring, D ring bits are particularly favoured for their traditional appearance and gentle control.

Saddle Pads

  • Hunter Ring: Use a white shaped pad that is fitted and contoured to the saddle, maintaining a clean and traditional look.
  • Jumper Ring: A white square pad is standard. At lower levels, you can use other colours, but white is preferred as you progress. A white fleece half pad can also be used.

Leg Protection

  • Hunter Ring: Typically, no leg protection is used.
  • Jumper Ring: Leg gear is acceptable but should be tasteful and properly fitted. Polo wraps or open front tendon boots are the most common.

Attention to detail in your tack can make a significant difference in your presentation and performance in Hunter, Jumper and Equitation classes. By ensuring your tack is clean, well-maintained, and appropriate for the ring, you set the stage for success. Remember, the right tack not only enhances your horse’s appearance but also supports their comfort and performance.

At Lumiere, we offer a range of top-quality equestrian products designed to meet the needs of competitive riders. Explore our collection to find the perfect tack for your next competition.