Riding Whips: Types, Lengths, and Differences for Each Discipline
A riding crop is an auxiliary aid that complements the rider's leg. It is not for punishing the horse, but for reinforcing and defining aids when the leg alone is not enough. Here we explain the types and when to use each one.
Types of riding crops by length
| Type | Length | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Short dressage whip | 50-65 cm | Ridden dressage, in-hand work |
| Jumping whip | 65-75 cm | Show jumping, general |
| Beginner's whip | 65-75 cm | Beginner classes |
| Dressage whip (Chambergo) | 100-120 cm | High school, Western dressage, in-hand work |
| Lunge whip | 150-180 cm | Lunging, training |
Dressage whip vs jumping whip
The dressage whip is shorter because it is mainly used to tap behind the rider's leg in collection work. The jumping whip is longer to be able to reach the shoulder or flank without unbalancing the position during the jump.
When is the riding crop allowed in competition?
- FEI Dressage: Maximum 1 whip up to 120 cm. Prohibited in tests, allowed in warm-up.
- Show Jumping: Whips up to 75 cm allowed during the test.
- Eventing: Varies by phase.
