Future of equipment rules in show jumping: FEI discussions on bridles and equipment

On October 14, 2025, numerous representatives of the show jumping community met at the FEI's HRH Princess Haya Auditorium in Lausanne to discuss the future requirements for bridles and equipment in show jumping, as horsesport.com reports. The discussions focused on the balance between performance, safety, fairness and the welfare of the horse.

Multiple challenges in regulating bridles and equipment

The discussions attracted representatives from many areas of show jumping, including athletes, veterinarians, as well as members of the FEI Jumping Committee and the International Jumping Riders' Associations (IJRC) and Judges' Associations (IJOC). A key topic was how to adapt the rules for equipment at different levels of competition and for different levels of rider experience. The need to regulate the amount and combination of equipment was also discussed in order to avoid unnecessary complications and to maintain an overview.

In addition, special equipment such as hind leg boots and auxiliary reins were also discussed, as was the appropriateness of the existing rules and the need for better training for judges.

Future-oriented adjustments and regulations for show jumping

Another key topic was a proposed rule change that would standardize the requirements for bridles and equipment in a special section of the FEI rules. This change is intended to enable the FEI to react more quickly to developments in the area of equipment instead of only making adjustments once a year. The planned rule change could come into force as early as January 2026, while a transfer to 2027 is being considered for show jumping.

FEI Secretary General Sabrina Ibáñez emphasized that the discussions in the forum were not aimed at a "bridle revolution", but at an evolution of the rules that is characterized by clarity and a common understanding among stakeholders. The aim is to shape the equipment rules in such a way that they promote both the safety of the horses and the performance of the riders and are fair at the same time.

Photo: Pferdefotografie Lafrentz