Horse Breeds Best Suited for Show Jumping

Show jumping (SJ) is one of the most demanding disciplines in equestrian sports. It requires horses with power, reactivity, technique, and a balanced mind. Certain breeds stand out thanks to their natural abilities and selective breeding aimed at this discipline.

The Key Criteria of a Good Show Jumping Horse

Conformation and Power

An oblique shoulder to favor stride length.
A strong and muscular croup to generate the necessary impulsion.
Solid and well-aligned limbs, ensuring safe landings.

Character and Temperament

Natural courage when facing fences.
Focus and quick decision-making during a course.
An energetic but manageable temperament, adaptable to different riders.

Technical Skills

A correct bascule over fences.
Good reactivity to adjust the stride before a jump.
The ability to remain supple and maneuverable, even on technical courses.

The Leading Show Jumping Breeds

1. The Selle Français

A flagship breed of the discipline, the Selle Français has produced some of the world’s best show jumpers.

Origin: Cross between Thoroughbred, Anglo-Arab, and Norman trotters.
Qualities: Power, agility, and a willing mind.
Famous examples: Jappeloup (Olympic champion, Seoul 1988), Baloubet du Rouet (triple World Cup winner).

2. The Holsteiner

One of the oldest and most prestigious German breeds.

Origin: Northern Germany (Holstein), selective breeding since the 17th century.
Qualities: Strength, elasticity, excellent jumping technique.
Particularity: Often used to improve other bloodlines.
Famous examples: Classic Touch (Olympic gold, Barcelona 1992), Clapton.

3. The Hanoverian

Renowned for both dressage and show jumping.

Origin: Lower Saxony, Germany.
Qualities: Imposing size but remarkable suppleness.
Strengths: Balance and a reliable temperament.
Famous examples: Shutterfly, ridden by Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum.

4. The Oldenburg

Another German breed highly valued in sport.

Origin: Oldenburg region, Germany.
Qualities: Elegance, power, long strides.
Particularity: Highly adaptable, appreciated by professionals.

5. The KWPN (Dutch Warmblood)

One of the most frequent winners on international podiums.

Origin: The Netherlands, with modern and rigorous selection.
Qualities: Explosiveness, blood, competitiveness.
Famous examples: Big Star (Olympic gold, London 2012), Hickstead.

6. The Irish Sport Horse

A crossbreed combining Thoroughbred and Irish Draught.

Origin: Ireland.
Qualities: Courage, endurance, excellent fitness.
Strengths: Particularly successful in eventing, but also shines in show jumping.

7. The Zangersheide

A Belgian stud-book entirely dedicated to show jumping.

Origin: Created in the 1970s in Belgium.
Qualities: Selective breeding exclusively oriented towards jumping.
Particularity: Modern and performance-driven stud-book.

Bloodlines and Crossbreeds

Outside of official stud-books, some targeted crosses produce exceptional show jumpers. Thoroughbreds contribute speed, while light draft horses provide power. Ultimately, the individual’s qualities matter more than the breed label.

Conclusion

The best show jumping horses share common traits: power, reactivity, courage, and intelligence. However, beyond the breed, it is often the individual horse that makes the difference, depending on its training and partnership with the rider.