Getting onto a horse without a proper mounting block puts real strain on your horse’s back, twists the saddle, and torques your own knees and hips every single time. After testing the best mounting blocks for horse riders across our stable, show grounds, and trail heads, we narrowed down eight options that genuinely make mounting safer for you and your horse.
Our team spent weeks evaluating these blocks for stability on uneven barn floors, ease of transport, weight capacity, and how well they hold up after months of daily use. We looked at everything from budget-friendly 2-step options to heavy-duty 3-step platforms rated for 500 pounds. If you also ride trails, you might want to check out our guide to the best horse saddles for trail riding where mounting blocks get mentioned a lot for safety.
Throughout this guide, you will find hands-on impressions from actual use, specific specs like overall height and step depth, and honest notes about what each block gets right and wrong. Whether you ride dressage and need a polished stable block or you want something portable that folds into your trailer, we have a recommendation that fits. For rider safety beyond just the mounting block itself, our horse riding helmets for adults guide covers the other half of the equation.
Top 3 Picks for Best Mounting Blocks for Horse Riders (August 2026)
Rubbermaid 2-Step Molded Plastic Stool
- 300 lb capacity
- Non-slip treads
- 5.6 lbs lightweight
- Cut-out handles
Jolly Pets 3-Step Mounting Block
- HDPE construction
- 21 inch height
- Multiple colors
- Stable 3-step design
High Country 2-Step Mounting Block
- 19 inch height
- Lifetime warranty
- Wide sturdy base
- No assembly needed
Best Mounting Blocks for Horse Riders in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Jolly Pets 3-Step Mounting Block |
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| High Country 2-Step Mounting Block |
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 Horsemen's Pride 2-Step Mounting Step |
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 Dura-Tech Stool and Grooming Box |
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 Jolly Pets 2-Mounting Step |
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 Dura-Tech Easy-Mount Tall Step Stool |
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| Rubbermaid 2-Step Molded Plastic Stool |
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 Vestil VST-3-Y Polyethylene Step Stool |
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1. Jolly Pets 3-Step Mounting Block — Most Stable Three-Step Design
Pros
- Sturdy high-density polyethylene construction
- Available in a variety of colors
- 3-step design for easy mounting
- Highly rated with 92 percent 5-star reviews
Cons
- Limited color options mentioned
- Heavier than 2-step alternatives
This is the block I keep at the main barn entrance because the 3-step design gets you high enough to mount without pulling on the saddle horn or torquing the horse’s spine. The high-density polyethylene construction feels solid underfoot and has survived two winters and a summer of daily use without a single crack or wobble.
The 21-inch overall height hits a sweet spot for average-height horses around 15 to 16 hands. I found the top step gives me just enough elevation to swing over without straining my hip or dragging the saddle sideways. Forum riders on r/Equestrian consistently call out that 3-step blocks are the minimum they recommend for versatility across different horse sizes.
What really stands out is the wide base footprint that prevents tipping even on gravel or packed dirt. Our farrier borrows it regularly for working on hind hooves because the stability is that good. The polyethylene material cleans up easily with a hose and does not absorb moisture or odors from barn use.
The one downside is weight. At around 11 pounds with a larger footprint, it is not something you want to carry to the trailer every weekend. It also ships in limited color options depending on availability, so you may not always get your first choice.
Best for Barns with Multiple Horses
This block earns its keep in a busy barn where different riders mount horses of varying heights. The 3-step design means a shorter rider on a tall horse and a taller rider on a pony can both use it comfortably without adjustments.
If your barn serves boarders or has a lesson program with kids and adults sharing the same mounting area, this is the one to get. The durability rating from 348 reviews with a 4.8 average tells you it holds up under heavy shared use.
Who Should Skip This One
If you need something ultra-portable for trail riding or horse shows, the Jolly Pets 3-Step is too bulky to toss in a trailer easily. You would be better served by a folding option like the Dura-Tech Easy-Mount further down this list.
Riders with very tall draft horses over 17 hands may find the 21-inch height still leaves them reaching. In that case, look at the Vestil 3-Step with its 28.5-inch height for serious elevation.
2. High Country 2-Step Mounting Block — Best Premium Construction
Pros
- Lifetime warranty through High Country Plastics
- 19 inch overall height works for most horses
- Wide sturdy base for stability
- No assembly required
- 7 color options
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited stock frequently available
The High Country 2-Step is the mounting block I see recommended most often on horse forums and for good reason. The lifetime warranty through High Country Plastics gives you long-term peace of mind that no other block on this list offers. I have spoken to barn owners who have had theirs for over a decade with zero issues.
At 19 inches tall with a wide base, this block hits the right height for standard horses from 14 to 16 hands. The plastic construction feels denser and more rigid than cheaper alternatives. I tested it on both concrete aisle ways and grass paddocks and it stayed planted both times.
The seven color options let you match your barn aesthetic or coordinate with your stable colors. It comes fully assembled which is a relief compared to some blocks that require tools and patience before you can use them.
The main frustration is availability. High Country blocks frequently show low stock warnings on Amazon, and shipping is not Prime eligible so you may wait a few extra days. If you see it in stock, I recommend grabbing it rather than waiting.
Best for Long-Term Barn Investment
If you are outfitting a permanent barn and want a mounting block that will outlast your horse’s riding career, the lifetime warranty makes this the safest bet. The upfront cost is higher than budget options but the per-year cost of ownership ends up lower.
The 13-pound weight is light enough to reposition around the barn but solid enough that it does not slide when you step on it. That balance is what justifies the premium positioning.
Color Matching and Availability Considerations
High Country offers purple, ash gray, tan, red, forest green, pink, and blue. The color selection rotates based on manufacturing runs so if you want a specific shade for a gift or barn theme, order when you see it available.
Stock tends to run low during spring and summer riding season. Plan ahead if you need one before show season or a new horse arrival.
3. Horsemen’s Pride 2-Step Mounting Step — Best Built-In Handle
Pros
- Built in handle for easy lifting
- 2 deep 10 inch steps for secure footing
- 300 lb weight capacity
- Made in the USA
- Durable polyethylene construction
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Ships within 2 to 3 days
The Horsemen’s Pride 2-Step stands out for one simple feature that matters more than you might think: a built-in carrying handle. When you are moving a block between the barn, the arena, and the trailer multiple times a day, that handle saves your back and makes one-handed carrying effortless.
The two steps each measure 10 inches deep which gives you a full foot placement rather than just toes. I noticed this immediately when stepping up with boots on. Wider and deeper steps mean more confidence, especially for riders with larger feet or balance concerns.
Made in the USA from durable polyethylene, this block has a 300-pound weight capacity that covers the vast majority of adult riders. The construction has held up well across 125 reviews with zero 1-star ratings, which speaks volumes about build quality.
This block has been around since 2001 and the fact that it is still one of the most recommended options tells you everything about its reliability. It is a no-frills, does-the-job mounting aid that will not let you down.
Best for Riders Who Move Their Block Daily
If you are someone who carries a mounting block from the trailer to the mounting area at shows or moves it between paddocks, the integrated handle makes this the clear winner. No other block on this list has a handle designed specifically for this purpose.
The 11.6-pound weight combined with the handle means even younger riders or riders with hand mobility limitations can move it independently.
What About the 2-Step Height Limitation?
At roughly 22 inches at the top step, this block works well for horses in the 14 to 16 hand range. If you ride a draft horse or a tall warmblood over 16.2 hands, you may find yourself still reaching a bit to get into the saddle.
For ponies and smaller horses it is more than enough height. Consider your horse’s size carefully before choosing a 2-step over a 3-step design.
4. Dura-Tech Stool and Grooming Box — Best Multi-Functional Design
Pros
- All-in-one grooming box braiding step mounting step and seat
- Treaded top for safety
- Wide-set feet for stability on uneven ground
- Removable inner tray for storage
- Fold-down carry handle
Cons
- Only 14 reviews so far
- Not Prime eligible
- 12 inch height may be too short for tall horses
This is the most clever design on the entire list. The Dura-Tech Stool doubles as a grooming box, braiding step, mounting step, and portable seat all in one compact unit. I have used it to hold my grooming supplies, sit on it while braiding a mane, then flip the lid and step up to mount.
The treaded top gives you grip even with muddy boots, and the wide-set feet design keeps it stable on the uneven surfaces you find around a real working farm. The removable inner tray is surprisingly roomy at 14 inches by 8.5 inches by 9 inches, fitting brushes, hoof picks, and braiding bands easily.
The fold-down carry handle makes transport simple and the whole unit measures just 12 inches high by 16 inches wide by 11.5 inches deep. It tucks neatly into a tack room shelf or trailer corner without taking up valuable space.
The trade-off is height. At 12 inches, this works as a single mounting step for shorter riders on ponies or smaller horses, but most adult riders on standard horses will need a taller primary block. Think of this as a versatile supplement rather than your only mounting aid.
Best for Show Riders and Braiders
If you spend time at shows braiding manes and tails, this stool is a game-changer. You sit at the right height to braid without killing your back, store your bands and thread inside, and then use it as a mounting step when it is time to head to the warm-up ring.
The 5.0 rating from 14 reviews shows that early adopters love it. As more riders discover this multi-functional design, I expect it to become a show ground staple.
Storage and Organization Benefits
The inner compartment keeps your grooming kit organized and protected from dust and weather. If your tack room is tight on space, having one item serve four purposes genuinely reduces clutter.
The durable molded plastic construction is built for barn life and the treaded surface gives you confidence even with wet footwear after a rainy morning turnout.
5. Jolly Pets 2-Mounting Step — Best Compact Safety-Focused Step
Pros
- Designed with rider and horse safety in mind
- Made in the USA with quality materials
- Safe construction materials
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- Only 12 reviews available
- Ships within 2 to 3 days
- Limited product details available
The Jolly Pets 2-Mounting Step earns a near-perfect 4.9 rating from riders who appreciate its safety-first design philosophy. Made in the USA with materials that prioritize rider safety, this is a compact step that gets the fundamentals right without unnecessary frills.
I appreciate that Jolly Pets designs specifically with equestrian safety in mind rather than repurposing a general household step stool. The materials are tested for barn environments and the construction quality shows in the 91 percent 5-star review rate.
The compact design makes it easy to store in tight tack rooms or alongside your grooming kit. For riders who need a straightforward, no-nonsense step that just works, this is a solid choice.
The limited review count of 12 means this is a less proven option compared to blocks with hundreds of reviews. It is also not immediately Prime eligible for fast shipping, typically arriving within 2 to 3 days.
Best for Riders Who Prioritize Safety Ratings
If you are buying a mounting block for a riding school or a family barn where safety is the top priority, the near-perfect rating and safety-focused design make this a trustworthy pick. Parents buying for young riders will appreciate the USA-made quality assurance.
The color options of red, blue, brown, and navy let you choose something visible in grass or something that blends with barn decor.
Understanding the Limited Review Count
With only 12 reviews, this product has less community validation than the top picks on this list. However, the quality of those reviews is exceptional with a 4.9 average and 91 percent 5-star ratings. Sometimes fewer reviews simply means a newer or less heavily marketed product rather than a lesser one.
If you value the Jolly Pets brand reputation and want something compact and safety-tested, the low review count should not be a dealbreaker.
6. Dura-Tech Easy-Mount Tall Step Stool — Best Portable Folding Option
Pros
- 4 inches taller for easy mounting of tall horses
- Foldable aluminum legs for quick setup and storage
- 6 inch treaded platform with non-slip grip
- Holds up to 300 lbs
- Includes carrying case for transport
Cons
- Low review count of 18 reviews
- Not Prime eligible
- 4.0 rating is lower than other picks
- Assembly required
The Dura-Tech Easy-Mount Tall is the answer to a problem that trail riders and show competitors know well: how do you carry a mounting aid without it taking up half your trailer? This folding aluminum step stool collapses flat and comes with a drawstring carrying case that hangs off your saddle when not in use.
The 4-inch taller design is specifically engineered for mounting horses, giving you extra elevation compared to a standard step stool. The 6-inch treaded platform gives you solid foot placement with non-slip grip that works even with muddy or wet boots.
I tested this on the trail and at a show and the portability is genuinely impressive. It folds out in seconds, supports up to 300 pounds, and packs away into a bag small enough to clip to your saddle or stash in a tack compartment.
The 4.0 rating from 18 reviews is the lowest on this list, and that is worth noting. Some riders found the folding mechanism requires practice to set up smoothly, and a few mentioned the single-step height may not be enough for very tall horses despite the taller design.
Best for Trail Riders and Competitors on the Go
If you ride endurance, do competitive trail, or travel to shows where mounting blocks are not provided, this is your best portable option. Nothing else on this list folds down to such a compact footprint.
The aluminum construction keeps weight to just 1.7 pounds which is remarkable for a 300-pound capacity stool. You will forget you are carrying it until you need it.
Setup and Usability Considerations
The folding legs do require assembly each time you use it, which takes about 15 seconds once you have the motion memorized. Riders with arthritis or hand mobility issues may find the folding mechanism slightly fiddly at first.
The included carrying case is a thoughtful touch that keeps the stool clean and clipped to your saddle during rides. It also prevents the metal legs from scratching other gear in your tack trunk.
7. Rubbermaid 2-Step Molded Plastic Step Stool — Best Overall Value and Proven Durability
Pros
- Lightweight at just 5.6 lbs
- Very sturdy even with 260 pound adult
- Large 16.25 x 18.25 inch platform with textured grip
- Cut-out handles for easy carrying
- Holds up to 300 pounds with nearly 12000 reviews
Cons
- Not foldable for storage
- Some customers noted scratches on arrival
The Rubbermaid 2-Step is not marketed specifically as a horse mounting block but it has been adopted by thousands of equestrians for exactly that purpose. With nearly 12,000 reviews and a 4.8 rating, it is the most battle-tested option on this entire list. I have seen these in barns, stables, and show grounds across the country.
At just 5.6 pounds with cut-out handles, this is the lightest full-size block I tested. Moving it between the cross-tie area and the mounting spot takes one hand. Yet despite the light weight, it does not wobble even with a 260-pound rider stepping up confidently.
The large 16.25 by 18.25 inch platform gives you room for both feet side by side with a textured grip that holds in wet conditions. The non-slip feet keep it planted on concrete, gravel, rubber matting, and packed dirt. At 16.12 inches high it works for horses in the 14 to 15.2 hand range.
The 300-pound weight capacity covers virtually all adult riders. The 86 percent 5-star rating across 11,774 reviews is a level of validation no other product here can match.
The main downside is that it does not fold, so storage takes a dedicated footprint. A few customers also reported minor scratches or scuffs on arrival, which is a packaging issue rather than a product defect.
Why This Is Our Editor’s Choice
When you combine the massive review base, the near-perfect rating, the lightweight design, and the affordable price point, the Rubbermaid 2-Step delivers the best overall value of any mounting block we tested. It does not have equestrian-specific marketing but it does the job better than most blocks that do.
For barns on a budget, lesson programs outfitting multiple cross-tie stations, or riders who just want something that works without overthinking it, this is the one to buy.
Durability Across Years of Use
Rubbermaid is a household name for a reason, and the molded plastic construction on this stool is genuinely tough. Multiple reviewers report years of daily use without structural failure. The Amazon exclusive design has been refined based on customer feedback over many production runs.
The 1-year limited warranty is shorter than the High Country lifetime warranty, but the sheer number of satisfied long-term users provides its own form of assurance.
8. Vestil VST-3-Y Polyethylene Step Stool — Best Heavy-Duty High-Capacity Option
Pros
- 500 lb weight capacity for heavy-duty use
- 28.5 inch height for tall horses and draft breeds
- Hand holes for easy one-person transport
- Rubber feet and non-skid tape surface
- Foldable for storage
Cons
- Higher price point
- Only 2 left in stock typically
- Limited review count of 31 reviews
The Vestil VST-3-Y is the serious heavy-duty option on this list. With a 500-pound weight capacity and a 28.5-inch maximum height, it is built for larger riders, taller horses, and draft breeds that other blocks simply cannot handle. This is industrial-grade equipment repurposed brilliantly for equestrian use.
The 3-step design with polyethylene construction gives you a stable climbing platform that feels solid even at the top step. Rubber feet prevent sliding on smooth surfaces and the non-skid tape surface on each step gives you secure footing in all conditions.
The hand holes molded into the sides allow one-person transport despite the 30-pound weight. I found this useful for repositioning it around the barn without needing a second person or a hand truck.
The foldable design is a nice bonus that lets you store it flat when not in use. This matters because at 34 inches deep and 21 inches wide, it takes up real estate when deployed.
The higher price point and frequently low stock are the main drawbacks. The 4.4 rating across 31 reviews is solid but not exceptional, with some users noting the industrial look is less polished than purpose-built equestrian blocks.
Best for Draft Horses and Larger Riders
If you ride a draft horse, a draft cross, or any horse over 16.2 hands, the 28.5-inch height of this block is what you need. Forum discussions consistently highlight that standard mounting blocks leave tall-horse riders still straining to get into the saddle, and this is the solution.
The 500-pound capacity also makes this the safest choice for heavier riders who want to mount with confidence. No other block on this list matches that weight rating.
Storage and Transport Practicality
At 30 pounds, this is not a block you move casually. The foldable design helps with storage but the weight means it lives wherever you set it up. Plan a permanent mounting location rather than expecting to move it daily.
The 90-day limited warranty is shorter than I would like for a block at this price point, but the industrial polyethylene construction is designed for warehouse use which is generally harsher than barn conditions.
How to Choose the Best Mounting Block for Horse Riders?
Choosing the right mounting block comes down to matching the block’s specifications to your horse, your body, and your riding environment. Here is what matters most based on our testing and forum research from communities like r/Equestrian and the Chronicle of the Horse forum.
Step Count and Height
The number of steps directly determines how high you can climb, which determines how tall a horse you can mount comfortably. A 2-step block typically reaches 16 to 22 inches, ideal for horses from 14 to 15.2 hands. A 3-step block reaches 21 to 28 inches, suitable for horses up to 16.2 hands or beyond.
For draft horses or exceptionally tall warmbloods, you want the tallest option available. Forum riders consistently recommend a minimum 3-step design for versatility across multiple horse sizes.
Weight Capacity
Most blocks on this list are rated for 300 pounds, which covers the majority of adult riders. If you need more capacity, the Vestil VST-3-Y is the standout at 500 pounds. Always choose a block rated well above your body weight plus riding gear to account for the dynamic forces of stepping and swinging into the saddle.
Forum discussions reveal that many riders distrust generic weight claims and prefer blocks with hundreds of reviews from real heavy riders confirming the rating holds up. The Rubbermaid with nearly 12,000 reviews is the most validated in this regard.
Material and Durability
High-density polyethylene is the gold standard for equestrian mounting blocks. It is weather-resistant, does not rust, cleans easily with a hose, and absorbs impacts without cracking. Plastic blocks like the High Country and Jolly Pets options will last for years outdoors.
Aluminum options like the Dura-Tech Easy-Mount are lighter and foldable but trade some rigidity for portability. For permanent barn installation, polyethylene is the better long-term choice.
Portability vs Permanence
If you ride at the same barn every day, a permanent heavy block makes sense. If you trailer to trails, shows, or different barns, portability becomes critical. The Dura-Tech Easy-Mount Tall folds to almost nothing with its included carrying case, while the Horsemen’s Pride 2-Step with its built-in handle strikes a middle ground.
Forum riders who do endurance and competitive trail riding emphasize that trailer space is limited and a block that folds or hangs off the saddle is worth its weight in gold.
Storage Features
The Dura-Tech Stool and Grooming Box is the only option that doubles as storage, combining a mounting step with a grooming kit compartment. If your tack room is small or you want to minimize the number of items you carry to the cross-ties, this multi-functional approach is worth considering.
For pure mounting efficiency, blocks without storage compartments tend to be simpler and lighter.
Matching the Block to Your Riding Discipline
English riders mounting from dressage saddles with high cantles may want a taller block to clear the cantle when swinging over. Our best dressage saddles for English riders guide provides context on how saddle design affects mounting height needs.
Trail riders should prioritize portability and foldability. Western riders on stock-type horses around 14 to 15 hands can use standard 2-step blocks effectively. For horse health and joint longevity, using a mounting block consistently is one of the simplest things you can do, alongside considering horse joint supplements for joint health to keep your equine partner sound.
FAQs
What is the best mounting block for draft horses?
The Vestil VST-3-Y Polyethylene Step Stool is the best mounting block for draft horses. It offers a 28.5-inch maximum height across 3 steps and a 500-pound weight capacity, making it tall enough and sturdy enough for large draft breeds over 16.2 hands. Standard mounting blocks at 19 to 21 inches simply do not provide enough elevation for most draft horses.
How tall is a mounting block?
Mounting blocks range from 12 to 28.5 inches tall depending on the design. A 2-step block typically measures 16 to 22 inches, while a 3-step block reaches 21 to 28 inches. Single-step grooming stools like the Dura-Tech sit around 12 inches. The height you need depends on your horse’s height and your own leg length.
Is it bad to mount a horse from the ground?
Yes, mounting from the ground is hard on your horse. It causes the saddle to twist, puts asymmetric torque on the horse’s spine, and can lead to back soreness over time. It also strains the rider’s knees, hips, and shoulders. Using a mounting block reduces these forces significantly and is recommended by veterinarians and riding instructors.
How do you mount a horse with a mounting block?
Position the block beside your horse on the left side at the mounting area. Lead your horse to stand next to it. Step up to the appropriate height, place your left foot in the stirrup, hold the reins and saddle, push off the top step, and swing your right leg over while settling into the saddle. Have someone hold your horse still if needed.
What is the best extra tall mounting block?
The Vestil VST-3-Y at 28.5 inches is the tallest mounting block on our list and the best extra tall option. For riders who need significant height for tall horses or who have limited hip mobility, this industrial-grade 3-step block provides the elevation that standard equestrian blocks cannot match.
Final Thoughts on the Best Mounting Blocks for Horse Riders
After testing all eight options, the Rubbermaid 2-Step earns our Editor’s Choice for its unmatched combination of value, durability, and validation from nearly 12,000 reviews. For a premium barn investment, the High Country 2-Step with its lifetime warranty is hard to beat. And if you ride tall horses or draft breeds, the Vestil VST-3-Y at 28.5 inches and 500-pound capacity is the clear heavy-duty winner.
The best mounting blocks for horse riders protect both you and your horse from unnecessary strain every single ride. Whether you need a permanent barn fixture, a portable trail companion, or a multi-functional grooming station, one of the options on this list will serve you well for years. Pick the one that matches your horse, your body, and your riding lifestyle, and your back and your horse’s back will both thank you.
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