Posted by: Jonathan Upton on 05/12/2025

Introduction

Equestrian Vaulting is one of the most technically demanding equestrian disciplines, combining gymnastic skill with precise control of the horse’s movement. The equestrian vaulting whip is a key part of this system, helping the lunger maintain rhythm, regulate impulsion and keep the horse safely on the circle. Unlike whips used for ridden work, vaulting whips are designed purely for communication at a distance, supporting both the horse and the vaulters as they perform.

What Is an equestrian Vaulting Whip?

A vaulting whip is a long, lightweight whip with a very long shaft (often 180–290 cm) and a long, flexible lash. Its purpose is not to touch the horse but to act as an extension of the lunger’s body language, reinforcing voice aids and maintaining consistent impulsion as the horse works on the lunge.

This makes it different from both lunge whips and groundwork whips. While a lunge whip also has a long lash, a vaulting whip is generally longer, lighter and designed specifically for maintaining the larger 15–18 metre vaulting circle used in competition.

Vaulting Whip Length, Lash & Design

Vaulting whips vary in length, but most fall within FEI guidelines:

• Shaft length: 180–290 cm (depending on manufacturer and handler preference)
• Lash length: Often equal to or longer than the shaft
• Material: Fibreglass, carbon fibre or lightweight composites
• Handle: Non-slip, cushioned for comfort during long training sessions

The combination of a long shaft and long lash enables the lunger to influence the horse without stepping into the vaulting circle, which helps maintain safety and consistency for the vaulters.

How Vaulting Whips Are Used

The vaulting whip helps the lunger regulate the horse’s rhythm, energy and straightness. It reinforces voice aids and encourages the horse to maintain forward movement without rushing.

Key uses include:

• Maintaining impulsion: A gentle flick of the lash (usually without contact) asks the horse to stay forward.
• Supporting voice aids: The whip backs up “walk”, “trot” and “canter” commands.
• Preserving the circle size: Subtle positioning of the whip helps keep the horse on a consistent 15–18 m circle.
• Creating a visual boundary: The whip acts as a clear, predictable marker, helping the horse stay balanced and relaxed.

A well-trained vaulting horse should respond to the whip’s presence, not its physical contact. The whip is an aid to communication, not a disciplinary tool.

Vaulting Whip Rules (FEI & National)

Vaulting has clear welfare standards regarding whip use. Under FEI guidelines:

• A whip may be carried by the lunger but must be used sensitively.
• The whip must not touch the horse during competition.
• Excessive or aggressive use can result in warnings, elimination or disciplinary action.
• The whip must be of appropriate length for the horse and circle size.

National organisations typically adopt similar rules. Consistency, respect for the horse and minimal physical influence are key principles across all vaulting bodies.

Vaulting Whip vs Lunge Whip vs Groundwork Whip

Although vaulting whips look similar to lunge whips, each type has a distinct purpose.

Whip Type	Typical Length	Primary Use
Vaulting Whip	180–290 cm shaft + long lash	Maintaining impulsion & circle size for vaulting horses
Lunge Whip	160–250 cm shaft + long lash	General lunging & exercise
Groundwork / In-Hand Whip	120–200 cm shaft + short lash	Close-range communication in schooling or in-hand dressage

This comparison helps riders and lungers choose the correct whip for each discipline.

Safety Guidelines

Because of its length, a vaulting whip requires good technique and awareness. Key safety principles include:

• Never touch the horse with the whip in vaulting sessions.
• Keep a clear boundary between lunger and vaulters.
• Ensure the lash does not tangle or catch on the ground.
• Stand safely outside the vaulting circle to avoid interfering with vaulters.
• Use calm, minimal gestures so as not to over-stimulate the horse.

Choosing the Right Vaulting Whip

When selecting a vaulting whip, consider the following:

• Length: Long enough to influence the horse without stepping inward.
• Balance: Lightweight and easy to hold for extended periods.
• Lash flexibility: Smooth, flowing movement without stiffness.
• Handle grip: Comfortable, non-slip material for secure control.

A well-balanced vaulting whip helps the lunger maintain rhythm and predictability, giving vaulters a safe, consistent surface to work from.

Conclusion

Vaulting whips play a vital role in maintaining rhythm, energy and safety within the vaulting circle. Designed for distance communication rather than direct contact, they help create a consistent, balanced working environment for both horse and vaulter. Understanding their purpose, correct use and key differences from lunge and groundwork whips ensures they remain a supportive, welfare-friendly aid in this unique equestrian sport.

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