Eventing is often deemed to be the ultimate test of horse and rider, but with so much to ask, what do top riders prioritise when they’re looking to buy an event horse and navigating how to buy an eventer?
Buying an eventer: conformation
Experienced event horses don’t always have perfect conformation. But you should discuss any issues with your vet before deciding to buy, to make sure that any imperfections aren’t going to impact on soundness or performance.
“Conformation is quite far down my list,” says Sam Watson. “But I‘d be wary of significant flaws that could jeopardise soundness.”
On the other hand, Lauren Blades really emphasises the importance of conformation.
“Horses can look different to one another, or have their own weaknesses, but it’s important that they are in proportion,” she says.
Similarly Georgie Goss says: “Feet and limbs are especially important. My vet and farrier always say to me ‘no foot, no horse’.
“But then I have several thoroughbreds, and they tend not to have the best feet in the world,” she adds.
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Buying an eventer: temperament
A trainable temperament and a willingness to learn are high on the agenda for most eventers. The horse must be obedient for dressage, bold across cross-country and careful in the showjumping.
“I like a horse to have a genuine, quiet temperament, but to be a bit sharper when they are ridden,” says Georgie.
Lauren likes a “kind eye” and Sam looks for something trusting.
Buying an eventer: movement
When looking to buy an eventer there might have to be an element of compromise in terms of movement or jumping ability.
A good quality, balanced canter is everything for Sam. And the trot and jump have to be “good enough to work with”.
“Improving a walk is difficult,” he says. “So having a good one is a bonus.”
Georgie would prioritise a good jumper over a flashy mover.
“If I couldn’t find a horse that moved and jumped well, I would probably go for one with a better jump,” she tells H&H. “With my showjumping background I have always preferred a good jumper.”
Lauren also emphasises the need for a natural jump. “You can teach a horse dressage through its training, but you can’t teach an uncareful horse to be careful!” she says.
How to buy an eventer
As Lauren says, “you never know what you are going to find and where” – it could be through word of mouth, a dealer or a private seller.
Sam relies on trusted producers and breeders at home and in Ireland. “I don’t play the numbers game or take chances on a horse that ‘could be anything’,” he says. “I know where to find future four-star horses – I just wish I could afford to buy all of them!”
Making the final decision
With so many factors to consider, the prospect of buying an eventer may seem overwhelming. But Sam advises that it is “all about clicking”.
“If you and the horse are enjoying yourselves and feel at home in those first few moments together then little else matters.
“If a horse ticks every conceivable box, but your instinct says something isn’t quite right, then trust it and walk away.”
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Former web features editor, point-to-point editor and digital racing editor
Gemma is an experienced journalist, who was a member of H&H staff from 2014 to September 2025. She is passionate about all equestrian sports, including racing and point-to-pointing. She has enjoyed riding out for top trainers Nicky Henderson and Charlie Appleby and took part in a charity Flat race at Epsom in August 2018. Gemma’s has reported from numerous five-star events around Britain and Europe, as well as European championships.
