British Showjumping Whip Rules Explained 2025

British Showjumping has enforced new whip rules from 1st of January 2025, but what are the rules and what do they cover?

As everyone will be aware there is a strong focus on equine welfare and it is the responsibility of everyone who rides, trains or cares for horses to ensure that they are always treated correctly. - britishshowjumping.co.uk

As we know by now, the only form of ‘whip’ to be used in British Showjumping is a Padded Baton as of 2020. But the Baton must meet specific requirements as listed below.

1. A padded baton must be over 45cm but no longer than 70cm

2. No thread around the baton within 17cm of the end of the padded cushion that comes in contact with the horse

3. The core or center of the baton should run all the way through and should be a minimum of 1cm in diameter

4. Weight should be evenly distributed and should not exceed 160 grams.

5. The padded area that comes in contact with the horse should be 2/5 the length of the baton. For example, a 50cm baton would need a 20cm padded area.

   
   

6. The padded area must be completely smooth with no raised bumps, stitching, embroidery or protrusions

Examples of BSJ legal batons

• Woof Wear Jump Bat - Full Grip

• Dublin Padded X-Country Bat

• Coldstream Next Generation Pressen Jump Bat

• LeMieux Grip-Tek Baton

• KM Cush Grip Jump Bat Slimline Whip

• Elico S291C Crystal Shaft Jumping Whip

• Fleck Jumping Event Bat

Changes for 2025

Where can I use the baton on my horse?

The padded baton can only be used on the shoulder to encourage the horse forwards and behind the leg to reinforce its aids.

How do you use the baton on the shoulder and behind my leg?

When used to support the shoulder, both hands must remain on the reins with an even contact. When using the baton to reinforce the leg, a riders arm must not come above the shoulder.

When can I use the baton?

You can only use the baton to support the horse’s shoulder and must never use it to punish a horse, this will result in elimination.

What happens if my baton hurts my horse?

Any marks or broken skin is considered excessive and will result in elimination.

How many times can I use my baton?

During the entire time in the area, your baton can only be used 3 times to support the shoulder.

What if my horse refuses?

You are not permitted to use the baton after a refusal, run out or elimination. This applies to the competition and warm up arena.

What happens if I break the rules?

“Misuse of the Padded Baton in the arena, practice arena or anywhere on the show ground will result in disciplinary action being taken.”

To read about all British Showjumping Rules you can visit https://www.britishshowjumping.co.uk/membership/Equine-Welfare