Buying a showjumper remotely: what should you look for on video?

Buying a showjumper remotely starts with video footage that answers your key questions: how does the horse move between the fences, how much support does the rider provide, and does the same impression hold up throughout an unedited course? Use video to select which horses to visit, not to make a final decision on suitability. Request context, recent footage and an independent evaluation when you cannot travel yourself.

An international purchase often begins with a link. In it, you might see the exact canter and jump you are looking for. The crucial question is not whether the video looks impressive, but what information is still missing for your personal competition goals.

What video should you request first for a showjumper?

First, request an unedited recording of daily training, showing flatwork as well as a full course that matches the horse's current level of training. This allows you to ask far more targeted questions than relying solely on a montage of successful jumps.

Explain in advance what you are searching for. An amateur looking to ride relaxed rounds requires different information than a professional wanting to produce a young horse. Do not simply ask for more height; ask for situations that reflect your intended future use.

Video adverts demonstrate why context matters. In this sales video from Pamfou Dressage, the training level is explicitly described as ‘schooling PSG’. A different advert from the same seller shows a young horse without such a level designation. Although these are dressage examples, the buying process remains identical: what performance is actually being offered, and what visual evidence supports that description?

Use a specific request list when evaluating a showjumper:

• Show the horse on both reins in walk, trot and canter.
• Film the approach, the jump and the getaway after landing.
• Keep the sections between the fences in the frame.
• State when, where and with which rider the recording was made.
• Send a complete training session or competition round alongside any highlight clips.

Do not demand an exhaustive demonstration. A targeted recording should easily fall within the horse's normal work routine and training level.

What does a competition round reveal that a highlight reel hides?

A full competition round reveals the flow between jumps, lines and rider intervention; a highlight reel primarily shows selected best moments. Both can be useful, provided you do not give them equal weight.

A competition report from TerraNova regarding Daniel Bluman and Cachemire de Braize describes line choices and tight turns. This illustrates a vital evaluation criteria: are you assessing only the jump, or also the plan and execution in between? The report naturally proves nothing about another horse you might be considering.

If a round looks exceptionally easy, ask what preceded it. Was this the first round of the day or a repeated attempt? This is not an accusation, but necessary context. Video becomes far more informative once you know what selection you are viewing.

Do not buy the best jump in the video; evaluate the combination you will have to ride every day.

How do you separate observable behavior from assumptions?

Start by describing literally what you see, then frame your explanation as a question. ‘The rider clearly pulls back before the line’ is an observation; ‘this horse is strong’ is an interpretation that requires further investigation.

The same applies to a smooth-looking round. You may see few obvious corrections, but you do not yet know how sensitive the horse is to the leg or how much skill the rider is quietly applying. Video cannot provide direct access to that feel.

Create two columns in your notes: verifiable and yet to be assessed. Date, identity and the setup shown can be verified with the seller and matched against official paperwork. Claims such as ‘forgiving’, ‘careful’ or ‘suitable for an inexperienced rider’ require proof under appropriate conditions.

Avoid drawing medical conclusions from video. Any questions regarding movement or soundness should be discussed with the vet conducting your pre-purchase exam. Video footage can prompt a question, but it can never replace a proper veterinary examination.

How to organize a useful remote live viewing?

A live stream viewing becomes truly useful when you agree in advance which questions the stream should answer. Ensure the seller uses a dedicated camera operator so the rider can focus entirely on the horse.

Begin with horse identification and a short explanation of its routine work. Then view the agreed elements without constantly giving new instructions while the horse is being ridden. Safety and an honest presentation are far more important than an improvised test.

Ask questions about what you are watching in real time: why was that transition repeated, how often does this rider sit on the horse, and what support does the pair receive at home? Keep written notes of the answers alongside the video, with the consent of those involved.

If you cannot travel in person, an independent local trainer can help evaluate your choice on-site. Discuss their commission, fee and any potential relationship with the seller beforehand. Keep in mind that even a skilled representative cannot completely predict your personal riding feel.

When is it time to view the horse in person?

Plan a visit when the footage and answers adequately match your requirements, leaving mainly questions of feel and partnership unanswered. Traveling then becomes a targeted next step rather than a gamble based on a nice jumping style.

Send your main questions ahead. The principles of a well-organized trial ride with a showjumper help both buyer and seller align expectations. Bring your own trainer if they are familiar with your riding level and home environment.

If identity, source of footage or essential details remain unclear, seek clarification first. Extra video minutes will not resolve contradictory information. Keep record of relevant descriptions and ensure key agreements are reflected in the international purchase contract for a sport horse.

Frequently asked questions about video evaluation

Key questions usually focus on recency, rider influence and the line between shortlisting and making a final decision.

How recent must a sales video be?

Ask when the footage was recorded and what has changed since in terms of training, health or competition history. There is no universal expiry date that makes every video automatically current enough.

Should I request video footage with an amateur rider?

Only if that combination is suitable and safe. A different rider can provide extra insights, but the label ‘amateur’ says very little on its own about actual skill or experience.

Is a clear round enough to reserve a horse?

Not without explicit terms outlining what reserving entails. A clear round does not automatically answer your questions regarding health, management or your personal dynamic with the horse.

Can I buy a horse based solely on video?

That is a choice where major questions may remain unanswered. Prior to making a binding commitment, arrange for an independent evaluation, a pre-purchase exam and proper contracts tailored to your situation and the countries involved.

Clear video requests allow you to compare horses far more effectively. Explore our selection of sport horses for sale and apply these evaluation criteria to select your top contenders.