Top 10 Best Jump Saddles for 2025 Unveiled
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Time to read 10 min
When it comes to finding the best jump saddle for your horse, there is a huge range to choose across the different brands, styles, fits and budgets. We've seen it all at Saddles Direct, so we've pulled together our Top 10 of the best jump saddles, for you to consider in your saddle search. Now, it goes without saying that the best jump saddle is one that fits! So we recommend getting some advice from a reputable saddle fitter on what might suit your horse best before you start looking.
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Bates Advanta Monoflap – Ultimate adjustability & performance. Albion K2 & K3 – Classic favourites with traditional flocking. Equipe Expression – Lightweight Italian craft with foam panels. Arena Monoflap – Big features at under £1,000. GFS Monarch Cob Jump – Forward cut for wide horses. Amerigo DJ – Designed for top-level jumpers & freedom of movement. Wintec 500 – Low-maintenance synthetic with HART tech. Thorowgood T8 Pony Jump – Ideal for young riders & ponies. Discover the latest jump saddle arrivals Tips for Fitting Jump Saddles Jump Saddle FAQs
Our Best Jump Saddle Recommendations
1. Bates Advanta Monoflap
Best jump saddle for: Adjustability & Performance
Most chosen by Eventers
A true performance saddle, The Bates Advanta Monoflap Jump saddle is specially designed to provide both the horse and the rider with a perfect connection because it is extremely close contact and has been in high demand since its release in 2021.
The desirable saddle is crafted from double-lined calf leather and the fit can be completely customised to fit both horse and rider. The adjustable blocks have been engineered with a SweetSpot in the ultimate jump saddle seat for effortless rider balance, so you are poised for take-off and prepared for the unexpected.
- 16.5"-17.5"
- Fully Adjustable M-XW with changeable gullet bars and Riser System
2. Albion K2 Jump
Best jump saddle for: Traditional Jump Saddle
Most chosen by riders who like a slightly deeper seat.
Boasting a supersoft seat along with a closer positive leg position, the Albion K2 Jump saddle is a staple favourite which has been around since the year 2000. Albion have a keen focus on creating the finest jump saddles for both riders and their horse.
- 16″ – 18.5″
- All Adjusta – Tree™ Fittings N – XW (can go +/- 1 width)
- K2 Tree & K2 Flat Tree
- Standard Gusset and 3” Gusset
3. Equipe Expression
Best jump saddle for: Continental
Most chosen by riders with multiple horses
Equipe are our preferred continental brand and the Equipe Expression is our favourite jump saddle in the range.
This saddle is a popular choice for riders with multiple horses ( as long as they have similar back profiles!).
The Expression is the flattest tree Equipe offer, and has short panels at the back so is a good fit for compact horses.
- 16.5″ – 18″
- M - XW (+3)
- Monoflap & Double Flap
4. Arena Monoflap Jump
Best jump saddle for: Budget
Most chosen by riders transitioning out of a GP
This saddle shares the same HART technology as the Bates Advanta!
What we love most about the Arena Monoflap Jump is the knee block customisation. This jump saddle has a slim external knee block to provide security, with an additional velcro block underneath so you can build the size up to exactly where you want it.
- 16.5"-18"
- Pony version 15" and 16"
- Fully Adjustable M-XW with changeable gullet bars and Riser System
5. Albion K3 Sport
Best jump saddle for: Traditional Flocked Monoflap
Most chosen by riders who love the K2 but want a more close contact feel.
Building on the best-selling K2 Jump, the design team at Albion released a monoflap jump saddle with a lightweight design and close-contact feel. The Albion K3 Sport has modern styling, the same super-soft, semi-deep seat from the K2 with a pur wool flocked panel for minor adjustments.
- 16″ – 18.5″
- All Adjusta Tree™ Fittings N – XW (can go +/- 1 width)
6. GFS Monarch Cob Jump
Best jump saddle for: Cobs that can!
Most chosen by riders who want a forward cut jump saddle, but don't want to compromise on fit.
All the benefits you'd expect from a forward-cut jump saddle, the GFS Monarch Cob Jump has a semi-deep seat and velcro knee & calf blocks.
Specially designed for wide horses, the Monarch Cob Jump saddle has a wide channel, with a less-angular panel designed to cater to a flatter back.
- 16.5″ – 18″
- Adjustable Gullet Bar: N - 4XW
7. Whitaker Overton
Best jump saddle for: No frills
Most chosen by riders who want to focus on comfort.
The Whitaker Overton Jump saddle is a classic forward-cut, no frills jump saddle. It has large padded knee rolls, which are staggered to encourage correct leg positioning and a padded skirt for extra comfort. This saddle boasts low-maintenance and can easily be adjusted with the changeable gullet bars.
- 16″ – 18″
- Adjustable Gullet Bar: N - 2XW
8. Amerigo DJ
Best for: High Performance
Most chosen by Professional Show Jumpers
The Amerigo "DJ" stands for Deep Jumping. The Amerigo DJ is designed to position you in perfect balance and give your horse complete freedom of movement over fences.
This jump saddle has been engineered for established competition horses with a good top-line, this jump saddle suits compact short-backed horses and bigger warmbloods.
The fit for the rider is very customisable, there are four flap lengths available to accommodate a wide range of leg lengths & positions.
9. Wintec 500 Close Contact
Best jump saddle for: Synthetic Option
Most chosen by riders who are budget-conscious and want an easy-care saddle
We love the Wintec 500 Close Contact Jump. The durable leather-look material is the best on the market and provides a supple and grippy seat - no more suede! This saddle has a very open seat and low square cantle to give you complete freedom to move.
The Wintec range shares the same HART technology as Bates and Arena saddles.
- 16.5"-17.5"
- Fully Adjustable M-XW with changeable gullet bars and Riser System
10. Thorowgood T8 Pony Jump
Best jump saddle for: Ponies
Most chosen by riders who want to focus on comfort.
Rounding up the top 10 best jump saddles is Thorowgood T8 Pony Jump. The leather seat and knee pads give the feel of riding on an all leather saddle, without the expense. The T8 Pony Jump has a versatile fit which makes it a good choice for young riders progressing onto bigger ponies.
- 15.5″ & 16.5"
- Adjustable Gullet Bar: M - 2XW
Finding the best jump saddle for you
From grassroots showjumping to advanced eventing, there’s a jump saddle designed to support your goals. At Saddles Direct, we stock a wide range of new and used jump saddles, including top brands trusted by professional riders. With expert advice and our saddle trial option, you can shop with complete peace of mind.
📦 Try before you buy | 🌎 Nationwide Fitter Network | 💬 Friendly expert advice
Contact our friendly team today on 01995 642 102 or email customerservice@saddlesdirect.co.uk
Discover the latest jump saddle arrivals
Tips for Fitting Jump Saddles Correctly
Whether you’re showjumping, eventing, or enjoying some fun over fences at home, the right jump saddle makes all the difference. A well-fitted saddle allows your horse to move freely, gives you balance and security in the air, and ensures long-term comfort for both horse and rider.
How to Measure for a Jump Saddle
Fitting a jump saddle involves more than just seat size. You’ll want to look at:
Wither profile and back shape – The tree must match your horse’s natural conformation to avoid pinching or pressure points.
Width (gullet/bar) fitting – Jumping requires shoulder freedom, so the saddle shouldn’t restrict movement at take-off.
Panel shape and bearing surface – Panels should distribute pressure evenly, with no rocking or bridging, even when landing.
Back length – Make sure the saddle doesn’t extend beyond the last rib, particularly important for shorter-backed event horses.
Seat size and flap cut – Jump saddles have a more forward-cut flap to support shorter stirrups, so check both rider leg length and horse shape.
👉 Read our full guide on how to measure for a saddle
Additional Fitting Tips for Jump Saddles
- Always work with a qualified saddle fitter , especially if your horse competes regularly or changes shape with training.
- Check withers and spine clearance when mounted as well as unmounted.
Make sure the saddle stays stable on approach, take-off, and landing. A tipping saddle can throw the rider off balance.
Look for even panel contact to avoid pressure points during landing.
Tools like the Perfect Fit Kit help you monitor changes in your horse’s shape between professional visits.
Jump Saddle FAQs: Your Questions Answered
How do I know if this is the best jump saddle for my horse?
A good jump saddle should give your horse freedom through the shoulders, clear space at the withers and spine, and even pressure under the panels. It should stay stable on approach, take-off, and landing without tipping you forward or back. The seat and flap must suit your stirrup length, and it should never sit past the last rib. For peace of mind, always have the fit checked by a qualified saddle fitter.
What is a monoflap jump saddle?
A monoflap saddle has just one flap, unlike the more common dual flap design. By combining the layers of leather into a single flap, it creates less bulk between rider and horse, improving closeness, feel, and connection. It can also make the saddle lighter.
In a dual flap saddle, the billets, knee block, and stirrup bar are hidden beneath separate flaps. In a monoflap, these features are built directly into the single flap, so nothing sits between the rider’s leg and the horse. This streamlined design is especially popular in dressage and jump saddles , where a closer contact and a more secure leg position are often preferred.
What’s the difference between close-contact and traditional jump saddles?
Close-contact jump saddles are built with slimmer panels and are designed to give you a really close feel of your horse, which is often preferred by showjumpers. Traditional jump saddles tend to have a little more padding and support, which can be especially helpful for riders who like a bit of extra security in the saddle.
What makes a jump saddle different from a GP or dressage saddle?
Jump saddles are designed to help you stay secure and balanced when riding over fences. They usually feature:
A forward-cut flap to accommodate a shorter stirrup length
A shallower, more open seat usually with a square cantle for freedom of movement
Knee and thigh blocks to support your lower leg and give extra security
In comparison, GP (general purpose) saddles are more of an “all-rounder” for a mix of jumping and flatwork, while dressage saddles have a much deeper seat and straight-cut flaps to encourage a long, correct leg position.
How do I know if a jump saddle will suit my horse?
A well-fitting jump saddle should sit level on your horse’s back, with no rocking, bridging, or pinching. It also needs to allow good shoulder movement, especially as jumping requires more freedom in front.
The best way to ensure this is to work with a qualified saddle fitter, but tools like our Perfect Fit Kit are a great way to monitor your horse’s shape at home between visits.
Will a jump saddle feel comfortable for flatwork too?
Yes, many riders school in their jump saddles. However, because they are designed with jumping in mind, the seat won’t give you the same level of support for extended dressage sessions. If you do a lot of flatwork, you may benefit from having a second saddle specifically for that discipline.
What features should I look for in a good jump saddle?
Key features to look out for include:
A forward-cut flap for jumping
Knee and thigh blocks to help keep you secure
A supportive but not overly restrictive seat
Good quality leather (or synthetic material) for durability
A tree shape that suits your horse’s conformation
Are adjustable jump saddles worth it?
If your horse is still developing, tends to change shape through the seasons, or you ride multiple horses, an adjustable gullet system can be a big advantage. It allows you to tweak the fit without buying a whole new saddle, saving you money and making life much easier.
How often should my jump saddle be checked?
We recommend a professional check at least every 6–12 months. You should also book a check if your horse loses or gains weight, changes muscle tone, or you notice any changes in their way of going.
Do I really need a separate saddle for jumping?
If you’re serious about jumping, then yes. A dedicated jump saddle will improve your balance and position over fences, help your horse move more freely, and make your rides more secure and enjoyable. While a GP saddle can handle light jumping, nothing beats the purpose-built design of a proper jump saddle.
Can I buy a second hand jump saddle safely?
Absolutely! Buying pre-owned can save you money without compromising on quality, as long as you buy from a trusted source. At Saddles Direct, every used saddle is safety-checked and eligible for a 5-day trial, so you can ride in it and make sure it works for you and your horse before committing.