How to Jump a Horse in the Winter

Jumping a horse is a fun sport during the dry and warm times of the year. However, winter makes jumping a horse a bit daunting. In the winter, you can be dealing with snow, ice and hard packed ground. These factors contribute to dangerous conditions for you and your horse. Consider the pros and cons before taking your horse to jump.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Look into indoor arenas. If you have access to an indoor arena, not only can you and your horse stay warm, but you don't have to worry about the conditions of an outside arena in winter.

2. Check the area where you will jump if you must be outdoors. It's dangerous to jump in an area you haven't been in before because you don't know how the ground slopes under the snow. A lot of ice and slush may cause your horse to slip, and even snow cover can hurt your horse's legs when she lands.

3. Find an outdoor arena with appropriate footing to ensure that your horse won't slip and hurt himself. A substance such as a mixture of sand, silt and clay and organics is common for an arena. The area also must have good drainage.

4. Consider horse shoes made with barium to help with traction. Make sure you get the kind of barium that provides traction as there are two types. During the winter, traction is especially important.

Who Can Help:

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Resources

• Horse911 gives some advice on indoor and outdoor arenas.
• Hoofdr provides information on horse shoes.