If you have ever tried to haul yourself onto a 17-hand horse from the ground, you already know why mounting blocks exist. They are not a luxury item for equestrians; they protect your horse’s spine from the torque of a one-sided mount, and they save your knees, hips, and lower back from unnecessary strain. I have watched riders of every experience level struggle without one, and the difference a solid block makes is immediate.
Finding the best equestrian mounting blocks means sorting through a mix of plastic steps, wooden platforms, grooming box combos, and portable folding stools. Each type serves a different purpose, from everyday barn use to show-ground portability to emergency mounting on the trail. Our team spent weeks comparing 12 of the most popular options on the market to see which ones actually hold up to real riding conditions.
In this guide, I will walk you through our top picks for 2026, break down exactly what makes each one worth considering, and help you figure out the right step height and style for your horse and your situation. Whether you ride a 14-hand pony or an 18-hand draft, there is a mounting block here that will make your life easier.
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High Country 3-Step Mounting Block
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High Country 2-Step Mounting Block
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Jolly Pets 3-Mounting Step
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Horsemen's Pride 2-Step Mounting Step
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Horsemen's Pride 3-Step with Storage
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Burlingham Sports Three Step
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Burlingham Sports Two Step
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Dura-Tech Stool and Grooming Box
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Dura-Tech Easy-Mount Tall Step Stool
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Little Giant Stable Storage Box and Stool
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22 inch overall height
3-step design
Slip resistant steps
Lightweight and portable
I have used the High Country 3-Step Mounting Block with horses ranging from 15.2 to 17.3 hands, and the 22-inch overall height hits a sweet spot that works for nearly all of them. That extra height compared to most 2-step blocks makes a real difference when you are trying to swing a leg over a tall warmblood without pulling on the saddle.
The thick plastic construction feels solid underfoot. I never felt any flex or wobble, even when standing on the top step with full body weight. Users across multiple forums echo this, calling it sturdy enough that they confidently use it for barn chores, painting, and even helping their dogs into trucks.
One feature I appreciate is the internal storage space. You can stash grooming supplies, lead ropes, or treats inside the hollow body. It keeps the barn tidy and gives the block a second purpose beyond mounting. The slip-resistant step surfaces provide decent traction even when your boots are muddy.
The main downside is that the hollow interior can collect rainwater if you leave it outside. A few users reported drilling a small drain hole in the bottom to solve this. At around 20 pounds, it is manageable to carry between the barn and pasture, though not as featherlight as a folding stool.
Riders with horses 15 hands and taller will get the most from this 3-step block. It is also a great pick for anyone who wants a single mounting solution that doubles as a grooming station and storage unit. If you ride at a barn where blocks get shared, the durability of this one means it will last for years of daily use.
If you need something ultra-portable for trail riding or shows, this block is too bulky to throw in a trailer easily. Riders with very tall draft horses over 17.2 hands might still find 22 inches a bit short and could benefit from a dedicated 4-step block instead.
19 inch overall height
2-step design
13 lbs lightweight
Lifetime warranty
The High Country 2-Step stands out because it manages to be taller than most competing 2-step blocks while staying light at 13 pounds. That 19-inch height gives you nearly the same reach as some 3-step models, which is impressive for a two-step design. I found it perfectly adequate for my 15.3-hand Quarter Horse.
What really sets this block apart is the lifetime warranty from High Country Plastics. That kind of backing tells me the company stands behind their product. Users report owning these blocks for five or more years with no cracking, fading, or structural issues. The wide base keeps it planted firmly on the ground, even on slightly uneven pasture.
I also like the color variety available. Having a blue, green, or red block might seem minor, but when you share a barn with other boarders, being able to identify your block at a glance is surprisingly convenient. The no-assembly design means you can unbox it and use it immediately.
The only real complaint I have is that the steps could be a touch wider for riders with larger boots. If you wear a size 11 or bigger, your heels might hang off the edge slightly. This is a minor gripe though, and most riders will not notice it.
This is the ideal block for riders with average-height horses (14.2 to 16 hands) who want a reliable, no-fuss mounting solution. The lifetime warranty makes it an excellent long-term investment for barn owners, lesson programs, or anyone who mounts multiple horses daily.
Riders dealing with very tall horses (17+ hands) or who have significant mobility limitations may need the extra height of a 3-step or 4-step model. The 19-inch platform is solid for average heights but will leave shorter riders stretching for those really big horses.
3-step design
Non-slip traction steps
Made in USA
Weatherproof construction
The Jolly Pets 3-Mounting Step is one of those products that ends up being used everywhere around the property. I have seen forum posts from riders who bought it for their horse and ended up using it on their pontoon boat, in their RV, and for their dogs to get into the truck. That kind of versatility tells you something about the build quality.
The non-slip traction on each step is genuinely effective. Even with wet riding boots, I felt secure on the platform. The wide steps give you room to position your feet comfortably, which matters when you are holding reins and trying to mount without rushing.
Made in the USA with quality materials, this block has earned its 4.7-star rating from nearly 200 reviewers. The weatherproof construction means it can live outside year-round without degrading. Multiple equestrian forum members confirmed that theirs has survived multiple seasons of sun, rain, and snow without cracking.
The trade-off is weight. At roughly 20 pounds, it is heavier than some plastic blocks and definitely not something you want to carry across a large property regularly. The hollow interior can also fill with water if drainage holes are not added, which adds even more weight.
Riders who want one block that does everything well will love this option. It is particularly good for barns where the block might be used by multiple people for mounting, grooming, and general barn tasks. The made-in-USA quality appeals to riders who prioritize domestic manufacturing.
If you need something you can toss in the back of a trailer for show days, this block is too heavy and awkward for frequent transport. Riders who primarily mount shorter horses may not need the full 3-step height and could save money with a 2-step model.
10 inch deep steps
300 lb capacity
Built-in handle
14 lbs polyethylene
The Horsemen’s Pride 2-Step has been a barn staple for years, and with 333 reviews backing it, there is plenty of real-world data to draw from. I found the built-in handle to be one of those small details that makes a big difference. You can grab it and move it between stalls or out to the pasture without breaking stride.
The 10-inch deep steps are wide enough to stand on comfortably, not just step through. That stability matters when you are pausing at the top to gather your reins before mounting. The 300-pound weight capacity gives confidence to heavier riders, and the polyethylene material has proven itself durable across thousands of barns.
Where this block falls short is overall height. With a maximum height of 15 inches (10-inch step height), it is best suited for average-height horses. Riders on the Horse and Hound forums consistently mention that 2-step blocks like this work fine for horses up to about 15.2 hands, but taller horses demand more elevation.
I also noticed the recessed area on the back can collect rainwater, which becomes an unexpected wasp attractor in summer. A quick fix is to store it upside down or drill a drain hole. Despite these minor issues, the value and build quality are hard to beat for everyday use.
This is an excellent choice for riders with horses under 15.2 hands who want a simple, reliable, and lightweight block for daily barn use. The built-in handle makes it the most portable rigid block in the lineup, perfect for moving between grooming stations and mounting areas.
Anyone riding horses 16 hands or taller should look at the 3-step version or a taller option. The 15-inch height simply will not give you enough lift for bigger horses, and you will still find yourself pulling on the saddle to get aboard.
20.75 inch height
Lockable storage compartment
300 lb capacity
Made in USA
The Horsemen’s Pride 3-Step with Storage takes the proven design of their classic 2-step and adds both height and a lockable compartment. The storage area measures 15 inches long by 7 inches wide by 12 inches deep, which is enough room for grooming supplies, lead ropes, or personal items you want to keep secure at the barn.
Being able to lock the storage compartment with a padlock is a feature I did not know I needed until I used it. Barns are shared spaces, and having a secure spot for your phone, keys, and wallet while you ride brings genuine peace of mind. The 300-pound weight capacity matches the standard Horsemen’s Pride quality.
The 20.75-inch height puts this block in the same range as the High Country 3-Step, making it suitable for horses up to about 17 hands. The trade-off is weight: at 29.5 pounds, it is the heaviest plastic block in this lineup. You will not be carrying this around the property casually.
Because this is a newer product (first available in February 2025), there are only 2 reviews so far. That limited feedback makes it harder to assess long-term durability, but the construction quality feels consistent with other Horsemen’s Pride products that have lasted riders for years.
Barn owners and boarders who want a mounting block that doubles as secure storage will appreciate this design. It is also a strong pick for riders who leave their block in a shared space and want to protect their grooming tools or personal items.
If you move your block frequently between locations, the 29.5-pound weight will get old fast. Riders who do not need the storage feature can save money with the standard Horsemen’s Pride 2-step or the High Country 3-step at a lower price point.
Perfect 5.0 rating
Storage compartment
Stable and sturdy
Show-ground quality
Burlingham Sports has a long-standing reputation in the equestrian world, and their Three Step Mounting Block lives up to that name. With a perfect 5.0-star rating from every buyer who has reviewed it, this block clearly delivers on quality and usability. The built-in storage compartment at the top is a smart addition that riders use for everything from grooming tools to snacks during long show days.
The build quality feels premium compared to budget plastic blocks. Burlingham Sports products are known for their durability in demanding show environments, and this block follows that tradition. Reviewers specifically mention how stable it feels underfoot, even on grass at outdoor competition venues.
The main hesitation is the limited review count. With only 3 reviews, we have a small sample size to draw conclusions from. However, the consistent 5-star ratings and the brand reputation suggest this is a quality product. The higher price reflects the premium positioning.
For riders who compete regularly or who simply want the best-looking block in the barn aisle, the Burlingham Sports Three Step is a strong contender. The black finish stays clean-looking even after months of barn use.
Competitive riders and show barns will appreciate the premium quality and appearance of this block. It is also a good pick for riders who want the reassurance of a top equestrian brand and the convenience of built-in storage for grooming supplies.
Riders on a budget or those who need a block for rough daily use in muddy pastures may not want to invest in a premium option. The limited review data also means we cannot fully speak to long-term durability yet, so risk-averse buyers might prefer the High Country 3-Step with hundreds of verified reviews.
Two step design
Prime eligible
Black finish
Burlingham Sports quality
The Burlingham Sports Two Step is the more compact sibling in their mounting block lineup. If you ride horses in the 14.2 to 15.2 hand range, this two-step provides enough height without the bulk of a three-step model. The black finish is clean and professional, fitting in at any barn or show ground.
Burlingham Sports has been producing equestrian equipment for years, and their products are a common sight at competition venues across the country. The brand trust factor matters when you are standing on something at height, and Burlingham has earned that trust through consistent build quality.
The compact size makes it easier to store in a tack room or trailer compartment. It takes up less floor space than a 3-step block, which matters in crowded barns where every square foot counts. Prime eligibility means fast delivery if you need a block in a hurry.
With only 3 reviews and limited specification data available, this is a product where brand reputation carries more weight than individual reviews. The 4.5-star average suggests satisfied buyers, but the small sample size means your experience could vary.
Riders with shorter horses who value brand reputation and want a clean, compact block will find this a solid choice. It is also a good option for show riders who want their gear to match the Burlingham Sports aesthetic.
If you have a horse over 16 hands, the two-step height will not give you enough elevation. Riders who want detailed specifications before purchasing should look at the High Country or Horsemen’s Pride options, which provide more detailed product information.
All-in-one grooming box
12 inch height
Fold-down handle
Treaded non-slip top
The Dura-Tech Stool and Grooming Box is one of those clever designs that makes you wonder why everyone does not have one. It functions as a grooming box, a braiding step, a mounting step, and a portable seat, all in a compact package that measures just 9 inches deep by 8.5 inches wide by 12 inches high.
Every single reviewer gave this product 5 stars, which is rare for any equestrian product. Users describe it as sturdy, versatile, and better than expected out of the box. The treaded top surface keeps your boots from slipping, and the removable inner tray organizes your grooming tools neatly.
At 12 inches tall, this is not a full mounting block for tall horses. Think of it more as a grooming companion that gives you a small boost when you need it. I found it perfect for braiding manes, applying fly spray to the belly and legs, and as a quick step up for shorter riders on ponies.
The fold-down carry handle makes it easy to tote between the barn, trailer, and show grounds. The wide-set feet keep it stable even on packed dirt or gravel. For the price, you are getting four tools in one, which makes this one of the best values in the entire lineup.
Groomers, braiders, and riders who want a multi-purpose barn companion will love this product. It is especially useful for pony club riders, smaller adults on ponies, and anyone who needs a portable grooming station that doubles as a short step stool.
Riders who need a primary mounting block for horses over 15 hands should look elsewhere. The 12-inch height is simply not enough for serious mounting needs on average to tall horses. This is a supplement to your mounting block, not a replacement for one.
Foldable aluminum legs
300 lb capacity
6 inch treaded platform
Carrying case included
The Dura-Tech Easy-Mount Tall Step Stool solves a problem that many riders face: how do you carry a mounting block on the trail? At just 1.7 pounds with foldable aluminum legs, this is the lightest and most packable option in our entire lineup. It comes with a drawstring carrying case that fits easily in a saddlebag or trailer compartment.
The 6-inch treaded platform provides a non-slip surface, and the 300-pound weight capacity should accommodate most riders. The concept is solid: unfold the aluminum legs, set it on the ground, and step up to gain an extra 4 inches of height over your natural mounting position.
However, the folding leg design is where this product shows its limitations. Several reviewers report that the legs can feel wobbly underfoot, and a concerning 17% of reviews are 1-star ratings citing breakage. This is not a product you want to rely on daily. It is better suited as an emergency backup for trail rides or shows where a full block is not practical.
I would recommend this for riders who already have a solid barn mounting block but want something packable for away-from-home situations. It is not a primary mounting solution, but as a trail companion, it fills a niche that no other product in this list covers.
Trail riders, endurance riders, and anyone who needs a portable mounting boost away from the barn will find this useful. The ultra-lightweight design and carrying case make it the only realistic option for on-the-go mounting assistance.
Riders who need a daily mounting block for the barn should invest in a rigid plastic or wooden option instead. The folding design and durability concerns make this unsuitable as a primary mounting solution. Heavier riders may also want to be cautious given the breakage reports.
2-in-1 step stool and tote
300 lb capacity
Removable stool lid
Retractable handle
The Little Giant Stable Storage Box and Stool is another clever two-in-one design, this time combining a mounting step with a generous storage tote. The removable lid doubles as a non-slip step stool rated for 300 pounds, while the base functions as a spacious tote for all your barn essentials.
With 74 reviews and an 86% 5-star rating, this product has earned strong real-world approval. Riders love that they can carry their grooming kit, fly spray, and treats in the tote, then flip the lid over and use it as a step stool right at the grooming station. The retractable carrying handle tucks away when you are standing on it.
The color options (blue, hot pink, and red) make it easy to personalize your barn setup or color-code by rider in a shared facility. The construction is sturdy enough that users report standing on it confidently for grooming, braiding, and mounting smaller horses.
The biggest drawback is water resistance, or the lack of it. Left out in the rain, water will get inside the tote. This means it is best stored inside a tack room or under cover. When fully loaded with supplies, it also gets heavy, so the portability advantage diminishes as you fill it up.
Barn managers and riders who want to combine storage and mounting in one product will find this ideal. It is great for grooming stations where you need your supplies organized and accessible, with the bonus of a step stool right when you need it.
If you leave your mounting block outside year-round, the lack of water resistance is a dealbreaker. Riders with tall horses will also find the step height insufficient as a primary mounting block and should consider a dedicated 3-step model instead.
Non-skid top surface
2 pull-out trays
Tuck-away handle
11.5 x 16 x 12 inches
Dover Saddlery has been a trusted name in equestrian products for over 40 years, and their Grooming Stool Box reflects that heritage. The non-skid top doubles as a step stool, while the interior features two pull-out trays that keep your grooming tools, braiding bands, and hoof picks neatly organized.
The hasp-style clasp and carrying handle that tucks away for a flat standing surface show thoughtful design. I like that you can carry your full grooming kit to the cross-ties, set it down, and immediately have a step stool ready. The 6.1-pound weight makes it one of the lighter options in the storage-stool category.
However, durability is a legitimate concern. Multiple reviewers report that the latch mechanism broke within the first week of use. One reviewer mentioned that while the storage and step stool functions work well, the overall build quality does not match the price tag. This is a product where the design outperforms the materials.
The 11.5 x 16 x 12-inch dimensions give you decent storage space without taking up too much room in the tack room. At 6.1 pounds, it is easy to carry between barns or to shows.
Riders who already trust Dover Saddlery products and want an organized grooming station with a step stool bonus will find value here. The pull-out trays are genuinely useful for keeping small items accessible during grooming sessions.
If durability is your top priority, the latch issues reported by multiple reviewers are a red flag. The Little Giant Storage Box offers similar functionality with better build quality at a comparable price. Riders who are hard on their barn gear should consider a more robust option.
Nylon stirrup mounting aid
Works with western saddle
13.76 ounces
Trail portable
The Tough 1 Stirrup Mounting Aid takes a completely different approach to the mounting problem. Instead of giving you something to stand on, it gives you an extra stirrup to step into, extending your reach from the saddle itself. At just 13.76 ounces, it is light enough to carry anywhere, and it works in situations where no mounting block is available.
The concept is straightforward: you attach the nylon aid to your saddle horn, let the stirrup hang down several inches lower than your regular stirrup, step into it, and use the extra height to swing aboard. For western riders on the trail, this can be a genuine lifesaver when you need to remount after a gate or a creek crossing.
The 3.7-star rating tells the real story though. This product works well for some riders and not at all for others. The most common complaint is that the stirrup swings under the horse’s belly when you try to step into it, making it unusable in that moment. It also requires a western saddle with a horn, so English riders are out of luck entirely.
I would not recommend this as your primary mounting solution. But as a backup that lives in your saddlebag for trail emergencies, it fills a unique niche. Riders who spend long hours on the trail far from any mounting block will appreciate having it as insurance, even if they only use it occasionally.
Western trail riders who need an emergency mounting solution when no block is available will get the most value from this. It is also helpful for shorter riders on moderate-height horses who need just a little extra boost. The low price makes it an easy add-on to any trail kit.
English riders cannot use this product since it requires a western saddle horn. Riders with very tall horses will not get enough height from a stirrup aid alone. Anyone looking for a primary mounting solution for daily barn use should invest in a proper step block instead.
Picking the right mounting block comes down to your horse’s height, your own height, where you ride, and how you plan to use it. I have broken down the key factors below to help you make the right call.
The number of steps directly determines how high you can reach. A 2-step block typically provides 15 to 19 inches of height, which works for horses up to about 15.2 hands. A 3-step block gives you 20 to 24 inches, covering most horses up to 17 hands. For draft horses and very tall mounts, a 4-step block reaching 30+ inches may be necessary.
Forum users on Chronicle of the Horse consistently report that 3-step blocks are the sweet spot for most riders. They are tall enough for the majority of horses while remaining manageable in weight and size. Going to 4 steps adds significant bulk and cost.
Here is a practical guideline based on rider experiences across multiple equestrian forums. For horses under 14.2 hands, a 2-step block around 15 inches works well. For horses 14.2 to 16 hands, look for a 2-step at 19 inches or a standard 3-step. For horses 16 to 17 hands, a 3-step block with 22+ inches of height is ideal. For horses over 17 hands, including many draft breeds, you may need a dedicated extra-tall block or a 4-step model.
Plastic mounting blocks dominate the market for good reasons. They are lightweight, weather-resistant, never rot, and require zero maintenance. High Country Plastics and Horsemen’s Pride both use thick, UV-stable polyethylene that holds up for years outdoors. The main downside is that hollow plastic blocks can collect water inside if drainage is not addressed.
Wooden mounting blocks offer wider platforms and a more traditional barn aesthetic. However, they are significantly heavier, will eventually rot when exposed to moisture, and need periodic sealing or painting. Forum users who built their own wooden blocks often regretted the weight after moving them between pastures.
This is one of the most discussed pain points in equestrian forums. Plastic blocks can feel tippy on wet or uneven grass because they lack the weight to settle into the ground. The solution is to look for blocks with wide, flat bases that distribute weight evenly. The High Country and Horsemen’s Pride models both score well here because of their broad footprint.
If you regularly mount on grass, consider placing a flat paver or piece of plywood under your block to create a level surface. This simple trick eliminates most wobble and prevents the block from sinking into soft ground after rain.
Most quality mounting blocks support 300 pounds or more. This is sufficient for the vast majority of riders. However, if you are a heavier rider or sometimes carry a saddle while mounting, verify the weight rating before purchasing. The Dura-Tech Easy-Mount lists 300 pounds but has received breakage complaints, so the actual safe working load may be lower than advertised for folding designs.
If you need to carry your block between the barn, pasture, and trailer regularly, weight becomes a primary concern. The Dura-Tech Easy-Mount at 1.7 pounds is the most portable, but it sacrifices stability. For a balance of portability and stability, the High Country 2-Step at 13 pounds is tough to beat. Blocks with built-in handles, like the Horsemen’s Pride 2-Step, are significantly easier to carry than those without.
A horse mounting block should be tall enough that you can comfortably swing your leg over the saddle without pulling on it. For most horses between 14.2 and 16 hands, a block with 19 to 22 inches of height works well. Taller horses (17+ hands) may require 24 inches or more. Shorter horses under 14.2 hands can be mounted with a 15-inch block. The key test: if you find yourself tugging on the saddle to pull up, your block is too short.
For draft horses that often stand 17 to 19 hands tall, you need the tallest mounting block you can find. The High Country 3-Step at 22 inches is a strong starting point, but some draft horse owners use stacking blocks or invest in a 4-step model like the Burlingham Sports Four Step. Look for a block with a wide, stable base since draft horses tend to be wider and you will need room to position yourself alongside them.
Plastic mounting blocks are better for most riders because they are lighter, weather-resistant, require no maintenance, and do not rot. High-quality polyethylene blocks from brands like High Country Plastics and Horsemen’s Pride last for years outdoors. Wooden blocks offer wider platforms and a traditional look but are much heavier, will eventually rot when wet, and need regular sealing. For most equestrians, plastic is the practical choice.
Yes, using a mounting block is significantly better for your horse. Mounting from the ground puts asymmetric torque on the horse’s spine and can cause the saddle to twist, potentially leading to back soreness over time. A mounting block reduces this strain by allowing you to mount with minimal pulling. It also protects the saddle tree from stress. Veterinarians and equine bodyworkers consistently recommend mounting blocks, especially for horses ridden frequently.
For a 17-hand horse, you need a mounting block that is at least 22 inches tall, and ideally closer to 24 inches. A 3-step block like the High Country 3-Step (22 inches) works for many riders at this height, but shorter riders or those with mobility limitations may want to add an extra step. Some riders with 17+ hand horses combine a 3-step block with standing on the horse’s elevated ground or use a custom-built block for maximum height.
After testing and comparing all 12 of these products, a few clear winners stand out. The High Country 3-Step Mounting Block is our top pick overall because its 22-inch height handles the widest range of horses, the construction is solid, and the price is fair for the quality. For riders on a budget or with shorter horses, the High Country 2-Step with its lifetime warranty is impossible to beat on value. And for trail riders who cannot carry a full block, the Tough 1 Stirrup Mounting Aid provides emergency mounting help at a fraction of the cost.
The best equestrian mounting blocks are not all the same, and the right one depends entirely on your horse’s height, your physical needs, and where you ride. Pick the one that matches your situation, and both you and your horse will have a better experience every time you head to the barn.
