2024 Best Bumper Pull Horse Trailers: Complete Buying Guide

Last updated: January 21, 2024

By: Miles HenryFact Checked

Have you ever wondered how the choice of a horse trailer impacts the well-being of your horses during travel? As a racehorse owner who frequently transports horses to various race tracks, I’ve learned that the type of trailer plays a pivotal role in their safety and comfort. Among the various types I’ve used, bumper pull horse trailers often stand out for their ease of handling and practicality.

Choosing the right bumper pull trailer goes beyond just looks and price. It’s about understanding and balancing key factors like build quality, durability, and user feedback. These trailers must endure the demands of the road while ensuring a secure and stress-free ride for your horses. They should also match your vehicle’s towing capacity and your specific hauling needs.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the essentials of selecting a bumper pull horse trailer. Drawing from my extensive experience, I aim to provide insights on what features matter most and how to find a trailer that aligns with both your and your horses’ needs. Whether you’re a seasoned horse owner or new to the world of equestrian transport, this article is designed to help you make an informed decision in choosing the best bumper pull horse trailer.

Comparison Table of the Best Bumper-Pull Horse Trailers

Brand	Loading Style	Construction	Height & Width
Sundowner’s Sportman	Slant load	Aluminum	7′ tall and 6’9″ wide
Featherlite 7442 Horse Trailer	Straight	Aluminum	7’6″ inside height 7′ wide height
Trails West Adventure MX II 2H Trailer	Slant load	Steel chassis/aluminum-skinned	7′ tall and 6’9″ wide
Logan Coach Crossfire	Slant load	Galvanized metal frames/aluminum skin	7′ tall and 6’9″ wide
4 Star 2 Horse Runabout	Straight or Slant	Aluminum	7’6 tall and 6′-10″ wide
Jamco Legend Contender	Straight	Aluminum	7’6″ tall and vary from 6′ to 7′ wide
Elite Bumper Pull Colt SS	Slant	Aluminum exterior	7′ tall and 6’8″ wide
Hart bumper-pull trailer	Slant	Aluminum	7′ tall and 6’8″ wide
Cimarron Norstar bumper-pull	Slant	Aluminum	7′-1″ tall and 6′-10″ wide

1. Featherlite 7442 Horse Trailer

The Featherlite 7442 comes with so many standard features you will be ready to load your horse and pull away without any delays. If you like a traditional straight-load bumper-pull trailer, then the Featherlite 7442 might be the top choice for you.

• Overview: A traditional straight-load trailer known for its lightweight and easy towing.
• Key Features: All-aluminum construction, large enough for draft breeds, optional dressing room.
• Pros: Easy to tow, spacious, versatile for different horse sizes.
• Cons: Basic design, less suitable for more than two horses.
• Best Suited For: Owners of larger horse breeds needing a straightforward, reliable

Real User Experiences

Durability and light weight achieved by pleasant and functional design clean fabrication, finish and prep was what my friends and I had come to expect in featherlite trailers. Mike Winfield

2. Sundowner’s Sportman

Over the years, my experience with Sundowner trailers has been nothing short of outstanding. They have consistently proven their reliability and durability, standing the test of time with remarkable resilience.

• Overview: A well-built, aluminum trailer offering durability and ease of use.
• Key Features: Aluminum construction, multiple horse models, drop-down feed doors.
• Pros: Lightweight, durable, good resale value.
• Cons: Limited customization options.
• Best Suited For: Those seeking a reliable, standard trailer for regular use.

Real User Experiences

“I have owned a Sundowner for twelve years and haven’t had any issues with it. I’ve loved it, actually. I also have a Featherlite gn and like it very much, too.” – saddleup.

3. Double D Bumper Pull 2 Horse SafeTack Slant Load

You can order your trailer straight or slant load and reverse or forward-facing. You can also choose a side or rear loading ramp. They are going the extra mile to build a trailer to suit any horseman’s needs.

• Overview: A versatile and safe choice for horse owners, known for its innovative SafeTack design.
• Key Features: Unique SafeTack compartment, Z-Frame construction, insulated design, and customizable options.
• Pros: Enhanced safety with SafeTack design, durable construction, comfortable for horses.
• Cons: Higher price point, slant load design may not suit all horses.
• Best Suited For Horse Owners prioritizing safety and customization.

User Testimonial

I’ve had a double d for almost 10 years now. I absolutely love my trailer. It pulls well, the horses ride comfortably and arrive looking fresh. Source

4. Elite Bumper Pull Colt SS

The Elite Trailer Company was formed in 1995 to build a better quality trailer to transport horses than what was currently available on the market. And this goal still seems to be present in the company today. This is one of the more popular trailers I see at horse shows and events.

• Overview: A well-crafted trailer combining aesthetics with durability.
• Key Features: Solid core buck rivets, window bars, insulated side walls, customizable options.
• Pros: Aesthetically pleasing, strong build, customizable.
• Cons: Can be pricey, more suitable for experienced owners.
• Best Suited For: Those desiring a blend of luxury and durability.

Real User Experiences

I own an elite.. and love it… I was orignally looking at 4 stars and then seen the elites and I like the way the dividers are in the elite better. Source

5. 4-Star 2 Horse Runabout

The 4-Star Runabout exemplifies their tech in entry-level trailers. This 2-Horse Slant Model, 11′ long and 6′-10″ wide, boasts 3500# Torsion Axles with Electric Brakes, 6-Ply Radial Trailer Tires, and 40/60 Double Rear Doors with Windows for an exceptional transport solution.

• Overview: A high-quality, lightweight trailer from a reputable brand.
• Key Features: Torsion axles with electric brakes, insulated and double-walled horse compartment.
• Pros: Lightweight, durable, quality construction.
• Cons: Higher price, limited capacity.
• Best Suited For: Those seeking a premium, easy-to-handle trailer for two horses.

4-Star Employee perspective on the Runabout

I work at 4-Star and as director of R & D, I am involved in the development of the Runabout. Personally, I enjoy the conversation about our products on this forum. I especially pay close attention to our detractors. This is where we learn what our end users want in their trailers. 4-Star is committed to listening to and responding to customer suggestions for improvement. We have an entire department dedicated to continual improvement of our trailers. Our dealers stand behind our trailers and we stand behind them. Source.

6. Cimarron Norstar bumper-pull

Cimarron has developed into one of the top manufacturers in the all-aluminum horse trailer. They’ve found a way to engineer safety, durability, and style into the perfect package to fit any equestrian lifestyle.

• Overview: The Norstar is engineered with your horse’s safety and comfort in mind, offering a sturdy yet easy-to-tow design.
• Key Features: Insulated Walls: Foam-insulated walls with kick mats for added protection.
• Pros: Prioritizes your horse’s safety and comfort with insulated walls, optimal airflow, and sturdy frame.
• Cons: Limited customization options.
• Best Suited For: Those seeking a reliable and horse-friendly trailer that prioritizes safety, comfort, and durability.

One of my friends owns a Cimarron horse trailer and loves it. He intends to stay with this brand when he buys his next trailer.

7. Trails West Adventure MX II 2H Trailer

The Adventure MX stands as Trails West’s best-selling trailer, and for good reason. This horse trailer strikes an impressive balance between affordability and quality. Crafted with a sturdy steel frame and an aluminum-skinned exterior, it combines the strength of steel with the lightweight advantages of aluminum.

Remarkably, despite its steel chassis, the Adventure MX maintains a svelte weight of under 3,000 pounds, ensuring both strength and agility on the road.

• Overview: An affordable option with a combination of steel chassis and aluminum skin.
• Key Features: Steel chassis, aluminum exterior, wooden floors for cooler interiors.
• Pros: Affordable, robust construction, cooler interior for horses.
• Cons: Heavier due to steel construction.
• Best Suited For: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a durable and comfortable trailer.

8. Logan Coach Crossfire

The Logan Crossfire, an entry-level slant load trailer with a front tack room, prioritizes essentials over extras. Marketed as “the horse trailer for everyday life,” it caters to those seeking well-constructed, safe transport for their horses, aligning with the core needs of bumper-pull trailer shoppers.

• Overview: An entry-level slant load trailer with a focus on basic, reliable functionality.
• Key Features: Galvanized metal frames, Vortex rubber coating, slotted aluminum floor planks.
• Pros: Cost-effective, durable construction, good ventilation.
• Cons: Basic features, less luxurious compared to others.
• Best Suited For: First-time buyers or those needing a simple, functional trailer.

9. Jamco Legend Contender

Jamco makes a super-strong horse trailer using a unique type of wall construction that uses inner and outer skin layers. In other words, if you completely removed the exterior of a Jamco, you would still have an enclosed trailer.

• Overview: Known for its strength and unique wall construction.
• Key Features: Interlocking aluminum planks, solid unit construction, smooth interior and exterior.
• Pros: Extremely durable, quiet, safe for horses.
• Cons: Higher cost, heavier due to solid construction.
• Best Suited For: Buyers looking for a top-tier, long-lasting trailer.

10. Hart Bumper-Pull Trailer

These trailers are built to last, they have smooth rounding corners, and the floor is I-beams on 6″ centers with interlocking sections. The unit’s side mainframe is a T-beam welded to the floor, and aircraft-grade aluminum is used throughout the trailer.

• Overview: A reliable and durable option from a family-owned brand.
• Key Features: I-beam floor construction, double-framed insulated doors, honeycomb-style roof.
• Pros: Built to last, strong construction, comfortable for horses.
• Cons: May be on the higher end of the price spectrum.
• Best Suited For: Serious equestrians looking for a long-term investment.

Bonus Review: The Brenderup Baron

Brenderup, renowned for its European bumper-pull horse trailers, boasts an exceptionally lightweight design. In Europe, these trailers are often towed with cars or SUVs. The heaviest Brenderup weighs just 2,150 pounds with a 250-pound tongue weight.

• Overview: A European-style trailer known for its lightweight and unique design.
• Key Features: Aerodynamic design, lightweight construction, suitable for smaller towing vehicles.
• Pros: Easy to tow with smaller vehicles, innovative design.
• Cons: Less common in some markets, may have limited dealer support.
• Best Suited For: Those needing a lightweight option for easy maneuverability.

Links to Manufacturers

Buyer’s Guide – What to Look for in a Bumper Pull Horse Trailer

When it comes to choosing the right bumper pull horse trailer, there are several important factors to keep in mind. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or new to the world of horse trailers, this buyer’s guide will help you make an informed decision.

1. Towing Capacity:

• Know Your Vehicle: Before selecting a trailer, understand your vehicle’s towing capacity. Your vehicle’s manual or manufacturer’s website will provide this information.
• Stay Within Limits: Ensure the loaded trailer weight (horses included) doesn’t exceed your vehicle’s towing capacity to guarantee safe and efficient towing.

2. Size and Capacity:

• Horse Count: Determine how many horses you’ll be transporting. Trailers come in various sizes, from two-horse trailers to larger options for multiple horses.
• Space Comfort: Ensure there’s enough room for your horses to stand comfortably without feeling cramped during travel.

3. Weight and Material:

• Trailer Weight: Consider the weight of the trailer itself. Lighter trailers are easier to tow and consume less fuel, but they should still be sturdy and durable.
• Material Matters: Aluminum trailers are lightweight and resist rust, while steel trailers offer durability but are heavier.

4. Storage and Convenience:

• Tack Room: Determine if you need a tack room for storing saddles, bridles, and other equipment. Some trailers come with built-in tack rooms for added convenience.
• Rear Access: Check if the trailer has a rear access ramp or doors for easy loading and unloading of horses.

5. Equestrian Needs:

• Horse Comfort: Ensure the trailer has features that provide safety and comfort for your horses, such as proper ventilation, dividers, and padding. I also ensure it has good flooring.
• Long Journeys: If you plan to take long journeys, consider trailers with features like water storage and sleeping quarters for your own comfort and convenience.

6. Vehicle Type:

• Match Trailer to Vehicle: Select a trailer that matches your towing vehicle. Smaller SUVs may require lighter trailers, while heavy-duty trucks can handle larger loads.
• Hitch Type: Choose the appropriate hitch type (bumper pull) that matches your towing vehicle’s configuration. I use a weight-distribution hitch for added safety on my half-ton.

By considering these factors and assessing your specific needs, you can find the perfect bumper pull horse trailer that ensures the safety and comfort of your equine companions and aligns with your towing capabilities.

FAQs on Bumper Pull Horse Trailers

Conclusion: 2024’s Best Bumper Pull Horse Trailers

Selecting the right bumper pull horse trailer is a critical decision that directly impacts the safety and comfort of your equine companions. Throughout this article, we’ve explored key factors to consider, including towing capacity, size, weight, and storage, to help you make an informed choice.

It’s crucial to match the trailer to your specific equestrian needs and your towing vehicle’s capabilities. Whether you’re an experienced horse owner or a newcomer to the world of horse trailers, understanding these factors is paramount.

Remember that regular maintenance ensures the longevity of your trailer and the safety of your horses during transport. Safety precautions, such as proper loading, ventilation, and emergency planning, are equally vital for a worry-free journey.

In the end, the right bumper pull horse trailer should provide a secure and comfortable environment for your horses, ease of towing, and convenience for you as the owner. Your choice should align with your individual needs and preferences, offering peace of mind as you embark on equestrian adventures.

So, when it comes to selecting a bumper pull horse trailer, choose wisely and prioritize the well-being of your horses. With the right trailer, you’ll enhance their travel experience and ensure their safety throughout the journey.

Call to Action:

We hope this guide has been informative and helpful in your quest to find the perfect bumper pull horse trailer. Your experiences and questions are valuable, and we encourage you to share them with us. Have you used one of the listed trailers? Do you have more questions about choosing the right trailer for your needs? We’d love to hear from you!

For more information on specific trailer models or to explore further options, you can visit the manufacturer’s websites. Simply click on the links provided in our sidebar for direct access to each manufacturer’s site. There, you can find detailed specifications, additional resources, and even connect with experts who can assist you in making the best choice.

Remember, your horses deserve the utmost safety and comfort during travel, and the right bumper pull horse trailer plays a crucial role in ensuring that. Thank you for choosing to prioritize their well-being, and we look forward to hearing about your experiences and assisting with any inquiries you may have. Safe travels!

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