Mounting Block: Get into the saddle safely and spare the back
With a sturdy mounting block you get into the saddle more easily and spare your horse's back at the same time. Here you will find blocks for the yard and arena.
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Waldhausen Foldable Mounting Block, Non-Slip, Black
Sale price: €17.54 Regular price: €19.95 (12.08% saved)
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Kerbl Foldable Horse Mounting Block, 39 cm, non-slip, up to 120 kg
Sale price: €12.09 Regular price: €13.99 (13.58% saved)
Mounting Block: an easier way into the saddle
Mounting from the ground pulls the saddle to one side over the withers and puts strain on your horse's back. A mounting block reduces this pull considerably, because you slide into the saddle from a raised position. That is more comfortable for your horse, protects the saddle tree and helps you if you are on the shorter side or ride a tall horse. In our range you will find sturdy plastic blocks, some of them folding.
What to look out for
A good mounting block stands firmly, has a non-slip surface and does not wobble even when loaded on one side. The steps should be wide enough for your riding boot and have a grippy surface. Two or three steps are enough for most riders. Folding versions can be stored in a small space or taken along in the horsebox, while solid blocks stay permanently at the edge of the arena.
Practising calm mounting
Many horses first have to learn to stand still next to the mounting block. Practise this in small steps and praise your horse when it waits. Place the block on level ground and not right next to jumps or the arena fence. Mount quietly, sit down softly in the saddle and only let your horse walk on when you give the signal. Mounting soon becomes a relaxed routine.
Frequently asked questions
Is mounting from the ground bad for my horse?
Now and then it is not a problem, but doing it regularly strains the back and withers on one side and pulls the saddle crooked. A mounting block spreads the force better. Out on a hack you can also use a tree stump or a bench.
My horse walks off when I mount. What helps?
Practise standing still without mounting first. Stand on the step, stroke your horse and reward it when it stands quietly. At the beginning, a helper can hold your horse's head.
How high should a mounting block be?
High enough for you to put your foot in the stirrup comfortably without hauling yourself up by the saddle. For tall horses or shorter riders, a little extra height helps. Two to three steps cover most situations.
Mount safely and spare the back
Every time you mount from the ground, you pull on the saddle and put strain on one side of your horse's back. A mounting block lets you get into the saddle calmly and without effort. That is good for your horse, your saddle and for you, especially if you ride a tall horse or your knees are not as supple as they used to be. Folding models can be stored in the tack room or taken along to shows and on rides, while compact blocks stay put by the arena. Look for a stable stance, wide non-slip steps and a height that suits you and your horse. With a little practice, your horse will stand still while you mount and wait calmly for your signal. That is also valuable out on a hack, when you want to get back into the saddle after a break or after opening a gate.