Equestrian Vaulting and Cossack Trick Riding: What Are the Differences?
Discover the differences between equestrian vaulting and Cossack trick riding, including speed, trajectory, equipment, exercises and origins.
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Equine encyclopedia
Vaulting Horses
Discover the main vaulting horse breeds, valued for their calm temperament, balance, regular gaits, and ability to work harmoniously with vaulters. Compare their origins, conformation, and abilities, from beginner sessions to competition.
7
breeds listed
7
countries represented
2
equine categories
Beginner → competition
profiles suited to different levels
Vaulting horse breeds to discover
A selection of breeds with illustrated and detailed profiles.
Understanding vaulting horses
Vaulting horses are valued for their calm temperament, regularity, balance, and ability to maintain a steady gait on a circle. They must remain attentive to the lunger while accepting the movements and exercises performed on their back.
In vaulting, power or expressive gaits alone are not enough. The horse should provide predictable movement, a sufficiently broad and stable back, and a reliable temperament. These qualities directly support the vaulters’ safety and the fluidity of their routines.
Depending on the level of practice, riding horses, sport horses, ponies, and some sturdier breeds may be suitable. The choice depends less on breed alone than on training, physical condition, temperament, and the horse’s experience on the lunge.
All vaulting horse breeds
7 results
American Paint Horse
United States
Vaulting
Driving
Dressage
Show Jumping
View breed
Arabe Persan - Pur-sang Arabe d’Iran
Iran
Vaulting
Driving
Dressage
Show Jumping
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Australian Riding Pony
Australia
Vaulting
Driving
Dressage
Show Jumping
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Barock Pinto
Netherlands
Vaulting
Driving
Dressage
Show Jumping
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Czech Sport Pony – Český sportovní pony
Czech Republic
Vaulting
Driving
Dressage
Show Jumping
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Gypsy Cob – Irish Cob – Gypsy Vanner (Tinker)
Ireland
Vaulting
Driving
Dressage
Show Jumping
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Haflinger
Italy
Vaulting
Driving
Dressage
Show Jumping
View breed
Articles about equestrian vaulting
Explore the subject through a selection of articles about equestrian vaulting.
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FAQ — Vaulting Horses
What is a vaulting horse?
A vaulting horse is trained to move steadily on a circle while vaulters perform gymnastic and acrobatic exercises on its back.
What qualities should a vaulting horse have?
The main qualities are calmness, regular gaits, balance, confidence, responsiveness on the lunge, and the ability to remain focused despite the vaulters’ movements.
Which breeds are suitable for vaulting?
Many breeds can be suitable, including riding horses, sport horses, ponies, and sturdier breeds. Temperament and training are more important than breed alone.
Can a pony be used for vaulting?
Yes. Ponies can be used for beginner sessions and younger vaulters, provided their conformation, temperament, and training are suitable.
Is vaulting only for children?
No. Children, teenagers, and adults can practise vaulting recreationally or competitively, with exercises adapted to each participant’s level.
At which gaits does a vaulting horse work?
Depending on the level and exercise, the horse may work at the walk, trot, or canter. Many competitive events are performed at the canter.
What is the role of the lunger in vaulting?
The lunger controls the horse’s gait, rhythm, and path. This role is essential to the safety and coordination of the entire team.
What equipment is used for vaulting?
The horse usually wears a vaulting surcingle with handles, a pad, and suitable protective equipment. It works on a lunge line around a prepared circle.
Can a vaulting horse take part in other disciplines?
Yes. Depending on its profile and training, it may also be ridden recreationally, schooled on the flat, hacked outdoors, or used in other equestrian activities.
How should you choose a horse for beginner vaulting?
For beginners, choose a calm, experienced, regular, and tolerant horse that is already accustomed to lunging and to people moving on its back.