Horse Plaiting
|
Horse Plaiting is an art - there are no two ways about it the only way to perfect the skill is to practice, practice and practice some more.
Try and find someone on your yard (or a horsey friend) to show you the process so that you can get the hang of it on non-show days.
Horse plaiting is simple in essence but when you are rushing to get ready for a show, even a straightforward exercise can turn into a nightmare, particularly on a hot day with a restless horse.
Practice plenty of times in advance, the day of the show is not the time for learning horse plaiting. The best mane to plait is one that has been evenly pulled to a length of approximately 4 inches.
If you are required to plait your horse's mane for your class, get up early to allow yourself plenty of time. Not all classes require plaiting up so it is a good idea to check with a knowledgeable friend or the Show Secretary in advance.
Small neat plaits will enhance a neck and can even minimise confirmation faults such as a slightly hollowed neck by cleverly placing the plaits higher up the crest.
Having seen owners struggling with manes almost 10 inches long it is no wonder that they become disheartened when the plaits resemble golf balls on the horse's crest and detract from an otherwise pleasing appearance!
For perfect show turnout, start at the top of the neck behind he ears (allowing sufficient space for the bridle to sit comfortably). Make sure the plaits are evenly sized and spaced with no straggly hairs protruding. A good tip is to use only as much hair for each plait as fits along the length of a mane comb - approximately 2 inches is best.
There should be an even number of plaits in total including the forelock plait. Always sew plaits with thread the same colour as your horse's mane and make sure plaits are secured.
Check that the plaits are firm but not so tight that they cause the horse discomfort.
You may find that the horse has rubbed his neck to relieve the tension and in the process undoing all your hard work.
Plastic bands are not recommended for the show ring as they can come loose with movement and also break the hairs.
Another popular plaiting style is the "Arab Plait" as shown in the picture below. This is a different style of plait and very flattering to illustrate the curve of the neck.
Always remember to take the plaits out immediately after the show. Leaving them in will damage the hair and make it brittle - reducing the ease with which you will be able to re-plait for the next show.
Manes and Tails - To Plait or To Pull?
Mane/Tail Pulling is best left to someone experienced so ask a friend to show you how to do it at least a week before the show to allow the hair to settle down. The tail should be cut level just below the point of the hocks when the horse is still, to allow it to sit level with his hocks when he moves.If you are not required to plait for your class or breed, make sure the mane and tail are laying flat and are pulled to the correct length. Pulling a mane and tail makes it easier to keep tangle-free and presents a smart appearance.
However, for some showing classes in particular the Native Breeds or "Mountain and Moorland" - less is definitely more. More information on
Trimming
- click on this link for some top tips to achieve the required turnout.
Return to our Show Turnout page for more inside tips and information
Return from Horse Plaiting to our Home Page
