The best horse trimmers are ideal for getting to the bits that even the best horse clippers can’t – they’re just what you need for finishing touches and quick tidy ups. Trimmers are all lightweight and easy to hold, which makes them great for manoeuvring into the trickier places. They’re also low noise and low vibration, which is really handy if you have a nervous horse or a horse that doesn’t like to be clipped, but also helps when you’re working around the head and ears.

Most of the best horse trimmers are battery powered, but there is a lot of variation between running and charging times. Some have a battery level or charge indicator, which is a handy feature to have. Most trimmers also offer a variety of cut length options and easy-to-change blades, but this is definitely worth checking before you make your final decision. Typically, the more features the handset has, the higher the price point.

Best trimmers: H&H’s quick guide

Best trimmers for blending: Wahl Admire

Best battery run time: Liveryman Nova

Best light weight trimmers: Clipperman Jewel

Best horse trimmers

It is quiet with low vibration and has a long run time that allows for multiple uses between charging. Comes with a disposable blade, four add-on comb attachments (3, 6, 9 and 12mm), charging lead, brush and oil.

Pocket Sized Trimmers 

If you are looking for a compact, pocket-sized trimmer for trimming awkward areas, especially round your horses head and ears and those fiddly finishing touches to details – or you just want to keep your horse neat and tidy between his clips – I’ve got a couple of ideal tools for the job.

These Liveryman Robin trimmers are a compact, pocket-sized, waterproof trimmer for precision and convenience. Perfect for use at home or shows, they fit comfortably in your hand, making it ideal for trimming delicate or awkward areas such as around the head and ears and even the heels of fine-coated horses. Its quiet operation with low vibrations makes it a reliable choice for nervous horses.

This is the lightest of the two pocket-sized trimmers I’ve featured in this guide. It is designed for precision and ease of use, particularly in hard-to-reach areas such as bridlepaths, above the eyes and under the horses jaw. Its compact, ergonomic design and soft-touch grip offer excellent control, while its small size makes it easy to conceal for nervous horses.

What is the difference between clippers and trimmers?

Horse clippers are powerful tools designed to run for longer periods of time effortlessly and remove the bulk of your horse’s body hair, while trimmers are much lighter and smaller than clippers, and are designed for precision work/tidying up delicate areas, such as the face, ears or jawline.

Trimmers are not designed for prolonged use but can be handy for blending or tidying up your lines for a show-ready finish.

When choosing between the two you need to consider your needs. For full or partial clips opt for a clipper, but for precision and detailed work a trimmer will work best. For nervous horses or if you’re regularly clipping feather, opt for a compact clipper like the Heiniger Opal Horse.

For many horse owners, they find the best combination is to have both a clipper and trimmer. By using both, they compliment each other and make the process more comfortable for both horse and owner.

Can you clip a horse with trimmers?

While some trimmers may be able to cope with tidying up a very fine coat, they are not designed to cope with a full clip and you will be much more successful with a set of clippers. Trimmers are best saved for trickier areas, such as bridle paths, blending around the face or tidying up feathers.

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Choosing from the best horse clippers to suit your needs will make the potentially arduous task of clipping quick and easy – and deliver a smart clip to make your horse the envy of his stablemates. There are so many options and a lot of technical information to sift through when it comes to choosing clippers, which can feel confusing, but in this guide I’ll help you work out exactly what to look for.

We’ve rounded up some of the best models from popular brands, and have loads of advice on how to choose the right clippers for you and your horse. If you’re looking to do smaller areas of tidying, however, check out this selection of the best horse trimmers.

Best horse clippers: H&H’s quick guide

Best mains powered clippers: Liveryman Black Beauty

Best battery powered clippers: Heiniger Xplorer Pro

Best clippers for nervous horses: Liveryman Harmony Plus

Best clippers for the one-horse owner: Lister Star

Best clippers for multiple horses: Masterclip Hunter

Best lightweight clippers: Lister Eclipse 2.0

How to choose the best horse clippers

Clippers are a real investment. When choosing a new handset you should consider…

• the size of your hands – will you be able to hold the handset comfortably for a long period of time?
• the amount of horses you need to clip, their hair type and personality – these will all affect the power you need
• access to power – do you have mains power or will you need a battery-operated handset?
• brand and clipper quality – choose a reputable brand and avoid options where the manufacturer is unclear
• price – battery-operated clippers tend to be the most expensive, and the price generally increases with the power

The main decisions you need to make are whether you need cordless or mains-powered clippers, and whether you would benefit most from light, medium or heavy duty. Not all clippers fit neatly into a category, but these descriptions offer some guidance…

• light-duty clippers – ideal for those with one or two short-haired horses
• medium-duty clippers – more powerful and durable than light-duty clippers, these are useful if you have up to five horses as they can handle feathers and most jobs well
• heavy-duty clippers – the best option if you have lots of horses to clip or have horses with particularly coarse or difficult hair

Mains-powered vs cordless clippers

Owning a set of cordless clippers is definitely convenient. There are no trailing power cables for your horse to potentially tread on, they can be lighter and easier to handle so better for clipping awkward and sensitive areas, plus they are good for remote yards without mains power or with limited power sockets. However, they are limited by their battery life and some need to be coupled with a heavy battery pack that may take a while to charge.

The benefit of mains-powered clippers is that they can run for as long as is needed (subject to short breaks to prevent the blades from getting hot) and don’t need to be recharged. You will have a power cable to contend with, but you’re less likely to be left with a half-clipped horse.

Should I wash my horse before clipping?

Yes, your horse should have a thorough wash before clipping. This helps to ensure maximum comfort for your horse, longevity of your clipper blades and it will also leave a better finish. You could also hot cloth your horse post clip to help remove loose hairs and oil remaining on top of the skin.

How do I maintain my clippers?

To ensure your clippers last well…

• oil regularly every 5–10 minutes with clipper oil
• set the tension correctly following manufacturer advice
• keep the clipper and filter clean
• use the correct blade type for the application

Why won’t my clipper blades cut?

There are a number of reasons why the blades may not be cutting, including…

• they may be blunt and need sharpening
• they may have been incorrectly sharpened
• the clippers may not have been tensioned correctly
• the blades may not have been oiled as frequently as recommended

When is the best time to clip a horse?

You should clip your horse as soon as his growing winter coat starts to get in the way of his work. If he’s sweating more than he was, then it’s time to take it off. You can then keep on top of it throughout the winter – some horses need going over more often than others. There is debate about when you should do your last clip before the spring, but the general, traditional view is that clipping should be avoided after the end of January.

What clip is best for my horse?

There are lots of different types of clip. Your horse’s management, including workload, rug availability, and whether he’s stabled at all will determine the best clip for him.

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£379

I think I’ve tracked down the biggest discount I have ever seen on horse clippers. If you want to make light work of clipping your horse this season and you’re in the market for some new mains-powered clippers, this Lister Fusion has an enticing £250.99 saving in this top deal direct from Wahl. No discount code required, simply follow the link and add to your basket.

Anyone dedicated to horses, whether as an owner, rider, or professional, understands the importance of using top-quality tools to maintain their horse’s coat. Lister products consistently come highly recommended as one of the best clippers for horses, and I’ve personally used them for years without disappointment thanks to their durability and reliability.

Wahl is offering 56% off Lister Fusion horse clippers, plus you get free shipping, which makes this great discount perfectly timed for the upcoming clipping season.

Lister Fusion clippers discount

Lister Fusion features

Lister says the Fusion clipper is engineered for “superior performance even in challenging conditions” thanks to the following features:

• powerful 360W motor that delivers a fast, professional clip
• two speeds
• slim, lightweight design with ergonomic handle
• double fan system and ventilation outlets that ensure consistent cool running
• overload protection and easy reset function
• choice of course or fine blades

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Clipping – and particularly the timing of the final clip of the season – is a subject which always generates a healthy debate. H&H asked grooms, producers and owners when – or if – the clippers get put away for the season

Anyone who has ever watched nervously for the first signs of hairiness in the final weeks approaching Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) will know that, by mid-September, most horses are beginning to grow their winter coat. Clipping means horses can stay in work comfortably in the colder months without sweating excessively, but the question of when to do the final clip is an age-old debate.

For traditionalists, clipping after the end of January risks damaging the summer coat and is a definite no no. Groom Emma Mason sends her clippers off for servicing in early February, having done her final clip of the year in late January.

“Anything later than that and you risk having horses looking like skinned rabbits going into early summer. We manage their coats using a combination of appropriate rugs, regular grooming and hot clothing to stimulate the skin, and feeding a top quality balancer plus linseed oil.”

Coat growth in horses is controlled by a response to changes in daylight hours. As daylight hours shorten in late summer, melatonin production increases to stimulate the winter coat growth; similarly, as days lengthen in January and February, the horse’s hair follicles are already preparing a summer coat.

Hayley Reynolds specialises in native ponies, as well as being a panel judge and has also been a brand ambassador for Lister Clipping. She has perfected the art of using Covercote blades, which leave 5mm of coat instead of the much shorter 2.5mm of normal blades, and give a less ‘clipped’ look.

“Knowing the horse or pony you are clipping is essential – I do a lot of native ponies, and there’s no doubt the grey Welsh section A ponies need a much earlier final clip than something like a black Fell. If you’re not careful, a grey sec A clipped on New Year’s Day can still look clipped in early May, and certainly with something like a double-coated Exmoor I wouldn’t want to go later than 1 January to avoid affecting the colour of the summer coat,” says Hayley, whose final clip date is usually Valentine’s Day.

She also advises understanding how much time to leave after clipping to achieve show-ring ready coats, with anything from 10 days to three weeks needed post-clip to lose the tiny lines left by the clipper blades. The rise in popularity of Covercote blades has led to many competitors choosing to refine their horses’ coats this way year round.

Joanne Dewhurst has a heavyweight show cob and uses the blades to keep a fine, summer-type coat, as does Kimberley Maw for her native show cob.

“I clip ‘Kiwi’ all year round, probably at four to six week intervals depending on what shows he is doing. I make sure there’s always at least a week’s growth after a clip and take time to blend his legs at the knee and hock to make his coat look as natural as possible,” says Kimberley.

Producer Melanie Booth is another who is happy to clip at any time of year if the horse in question needs it.

“I don’t think it ruins their summer coat – I’ve clipped as late as March and the summer coat that came through was fab.”

Ele Milwright agrees that ruining the summer coat with late clipping is a myth.

“When I was showing my cob, we would clip right up to March or even April and still got great feedback from judges from spring shows onwards. However, you do need to be careful of old clip lines, for example if you’ve done a trace or blanket clip at some point, and these need removing in good time.”

In the end, it comes down to personal choice and knowing each horse, says producer Andrew Collins.

“I’m working to [show date] time scales, so always work on the basis of ‘it’s not what you clip off, it’s what you leave on’!”

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Best horse clippers for taming every type of winter coat

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Preparing your show horse for the ring isn’t simply a case of getting it ready the night before. Like your fitness and training, the overall appearance is integral to the finished product, especially in this discipline. A polished look is just as important as ensuring your horse is fit and ready to compete. First impressions count, and attention to detail can set you apart in the judges’ eyes.

Proper preparation starts well before the season begins and requires careful planning and consistent care. From clipping and grooming to gear inspections, a thorough approach will help ensure you’re ready to shine when show day arrives.

Preparing your show horse for the ring

When to clip

When preparing your horse during colder months, clipping is essential to not only maintain a tidy appearance, but to ensure the horse can work in comfort without a thick winter coat causing excessive sweat and a risk of catching a chill while drying off afterwards. However, timing and technique are crucial to achieving optimal results.

There is often debate about the practice of clipping after January, as some believe it compromises the summer coat, but most recommend you focus on the welfare and workload of the horse.

Producer James Knipe advises: “Never clip the little ponies too soon; they can become sharp. The priority is to have a happy, confident child. Waiting until the better weather makes it much easier.”

Vicky Smith, an experienced horse producer, starts with a bib clip: “For the initial back-to-work programme of hacking, a simple bib clip is adequate. Then, choose the type of clip to match the workload and the individual animal.”

Producer Emma Holder emphasises the impact of changeable winter weather: “The old rule of never clipping after January is outdated. The weather varies so much now, so we wait until the winter coat starts to break.”

Show producer Sara Parrot agrees: “We rug and groom the ponies as they come in from the field, but we only clip once the winter coat starts to moult. Within a week, we have a summer coat.”

Maintaining a clipped coat is equally important. Scottish-based show producer Kirstine Douglas highlights the significance of skin health: “A healthy coat comes from healthy skin. Feeding oils in the diet helps, but it’s also vital to keep the skin clean and conditioned. Using hot oil or hot washes to remove impurities keeps the skin supple and gives the best summer coat, regardless of clipping timing.”

Kirstine recommends a good hot cloth or wash after work to clean and condition the coat. Hot clothing with water as warm as you can handle, combined with baby oil or coat cleansers, leaves the coat looking and feeling its best.

Manes and tails

A well-groomed mane and tail enhance your horse’s overall presentation when preparing a show horse for the ring. Timing is everything when it comes to pulling or trimming, as well as knowing how to pull or tidy a horse’s mane. Planning these tasks to match your show dates allows for natural regrowth and avoids an uneven appearance.

Experienced producer and judge Stuart Hollings explains: “Trimming is an art. When done correctly, it can enhance an animal’s overall appearance. Always work in stages. Watching how the horse moves and holds its tail can help you trim to showcase its best features. Keeping a tail too long may draw attention to conformation faults rather than hiding them.”

Maintaining cleanliness is crucial.

“I’d never work with a dirty mane or tail,” says Kirstine Douglas. “A good scrub is essential before trimming or tidying after the winter holiday.”

Kirstine also advises scissor-cutting thin manes and cutting tails to hock length before winter turnout to prevent breakage.

There’s also a shift away from traditional tail-pulling practices. Sara Parrot explains: “Craig never pulls tails. From a welfare and safety perspective, we use razors and rakes to achieve a neat, polished look without pulling.”

Regular maintenance – trimming and conditioning – prevents breakage and rubbing.

Finally, grease build-up on rugs can cause rubs. Washing hoods regularly or avoiding them entirely can protect manes.

“I prefer an extra rug rather than a hood to safeguard manes,” Kirstine adds.

Whiskers and ears

Trimming whiskers and the insides of ears has become a significant welfare consideration in recent years, with many shows implementing rules against these practices, in line with a ban in horseracing, and the FEI disciplines. The Great Yorkshire Show, for example, prohibits competitors with trimmed whiskers, reflecting a broader move towards prioritising equine welfare.

At present, only the National Pony Society has banned the trimming of whiskers for all breeds. Other societies may not penalise competitors for trimming these areas, but it’s important to check the rules of your governing showing society to ensure compliance with their rules.

Sara Parrot shares her approach: “We’ve left whiskers on for the past few years. They naturally wear down, and letting them grow avoids the thick, stubbly look that trimming creates.”

Rider preparation

Preparing your show horse with a polished appearance for the ring isn’t the end of the story; rider preparation plays a significant role. Fitness, nutrition, and conditioning ensure you’re ready to perform at your best.

Fitness coach and accomplished equestrian Katie Parry-Evans, of Gympony, offers key tips for riders:

• Set goals and stay accountable: work with an equestrian fitness coach to set short, medium, and long-term goals. Regular check-ins and tailored plans help you stay on track.
• Fuel your body: just like your horse, proper nutrition is essential. A diet rich in protein supports muscle repair, while hydration aids overall performance.
• Consistency and recovery: fitness progress takes time, so stick to your plan and allow your body time to recover with rest days and adequate sleep.
• Tailored exercises: incorporate core work for stability, unilateral exercises for balance, and mobility exercises to improve flexibility. Cardio activities like running or cycling enhance cardiovascular fitness and endurance. Katie says, “Core work promotes stability and allows you to feel more secure in the saddle. Core-strengthening exercises such as planks, dead bugs, and renegade rows are super for improving this area.”

Katie provides excellent advice: “We spend lots of time thinking about horse fitness, but rider fitness is equally important. Riding requires good cardiovascular fitness, core strength, stability, leg strength, and mobility. Incorporating transferable exercises into your gym routine will help you excel in the saddle and benefit your horse’s way of going.”

Preparation checklist

Early preparation ensures you’re not scrambling at the last minute or facing unexpected expenses. Use this checklist to stay organised:

• Tack: inspect for wear and tear, ensure proper fit, and clean thoroughly
• Rider gear: check show jackets, jodhpurs, and boots for fit and condition
• Horse gear: ensure rugs, grooming tools, and boots are clean and in working order
• Extras: stock up on grooming products, first-aid supplies, spare reins, and other essentials
• Transport: double-check trailer or lorry condition, including brakes and lights

By starting your preparations early, you can avoid the stress of last-minute purchases and focus on the excitement of the season ahead.

A polished appearance reflects the hard work and dedication you’ve put into your horse and your partnership. By paying attention to details such as clipping, grooming, rider fitness, and gear preparation, you set yourself up for success in the show ring. The effort you put in now will pay off when you step into the spotlight.

Thank you for subscribing to the H&H website. We will be bringing you showing news from major dates on the circuit including Royal Windsor, Royal Welsh, Royal International, HOYS and more, as well as important news that the showing world cares about throughout the year. Stick with us for all you need to know.

Enjoy reading the rest of this exclusive series for H&H subscribers…

Expert tips to turn your hairy horses into showing stars ready to impress the judges

Expert tips for building up your show horse’s workload ready for the ring – with useful fitness timeline and warning signs

Look at me, judges! Expert tips on preparing your show horse to stand out in the ring for all the right reasons this season

Be ready to win with expert tips on last-minute planning and polish to ensure a successful show ring debut

Best horse clippers for taming every type of winter coat

8 trimmers for tidying, blending and finishing touches

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

We can’t believe it! Wahl are running a fantastic Black Friday discount with 25% off products across the site meaning you can save money on the popular Lister clippers and trimmers. Plus you get a free Lister bobble hat worth £20 with every order. We are very excited to see this deal as typically we don’t see clippers discounted much throughout the winter months. 

Whether you’re a dedicated horse owner, rider or professional, you’ll understand the importance of using top-quality tools to keep your horse looking neat and tidy – and Lister always come highly recommended. I have used Lister products for many years – they are durable and reliable, and I have never been disappointed. This discount has come at ideal time of year as it’s prime clipping time – or if you’re looking for the perfect gift for a horse owner this could be it.

If you want to take advantage of this opportunity but you’re you’re unsure where to start when choosing a new handset, check out our guides to the best horse clippers and best horse trimmers.

We’ve picked out some of our top offers from this sale but if you can’t find what you looking for here check out their website for more deals here. All you need to do is use the code “BLACKFRIDAY” at the checkout – this code gives you a bigger discount than all the other codes they’re advertising on the site.

Our top pick of Wahl’s Black Friday clipper deals

Wahl’s Black Friday trimmer deals

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Ah clipping. One of winter’s many joys when it comes to horse ownership. There are so many questions. When to do the first clip? How late can you do the last clip? To do it yourself or pay someone? How often to clip?

And perhaps most pressing of all, what sort of clip is best? Of course lots of factors will influence your decision, from where you keep your horse to what work he is doing and how long his coat is. And your primary concern must be his welfare in terms of keeping him as comfortable as possible through these cold and wet months.

In my family, we’re firm advocates of the blanket clip. And this is why…

Why it’s better than a full clip…

1. You can take your horse’s rug off while you’re grooming him and not worry he’s going to freeze to death.

2. You can stand still for a few moments while waiting your turn during a clinic and not worry he’s going to freeze to death.

3. You can stop to blow your nose during a lesson and not worry he’s going to freeze to death (see the theme here?).

4. You can leave your horse out overnight without being completely riven with guilt. He’s still got hair on his bottom, right?

Why it’s better than a trace clip…

5. Your horse looks really smart with his face and neck clipped.

6. And all the part you can see when you’re riding is clipped, so you can pretend you’re riding at Olympia or on the Spanish Sunshine Tour or — well, frankly, anywhere glamorous — without being brought back to your muddy field with a bump by the sight of inch-long hairs.

7. You don’t have to deal with lots of damp sweaty long hair on his neck after you’ve had a bit of a canter about.

8. If the horse in question is grey, it’s much easier to keep a clipped neck and face clean than a hairy one.

And best of all…

9. You can still give him a full clip for his final clip of the winter and not have to deal with that bit of the year where all the long hair is coming out all over you, your car, the tack room, your house… I mean, we know it still comes off his legs, but at least having it off his back at that stage is slightly better, right?

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout major shows such as London International and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested in:

Best horse clippers for taming every type of winter coat

Which type of clip is right for your horse? Check out H&H’s helpful guide

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Here Jason Webb of Australian Horse Training gives one H&H forum user advice on clipping a horse that hates the

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

If you’re in the market for some new clippers, this Lister Eclipse is up there with the very best around. It’s now better still with an attractive £63 saving in this top deal direct from Wahl.

The Lister Eclipse Cordless Horse Clipper has been around for a few years now, and has proven to be one of the most popular choices when it comes to the best horse clippers. Right now, at Wahl, the Eclipse is available at £356.99, a rarely-seen discount on the list price and RRP of £419.99. We don’t often see deals on clippers, especially at this time of year when they’re in high demand, so this discount is a good find.

Our horses’ happiness and welfare are always a priority and if your horse dislikes being clipped and tends to fidget, the Lister Eclipse cordless horse clipper can help make the process easier as there are no leads to worry about. Lister is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of clippers and has held a Royal Warrant for more than 60 years. Other Lister clippers, such as the Lister Star, Lister Legend and Lister Fusion, all feature in our guide to the best horse clippers.

On launch, Lister described the Eclipse as one of its “most exciting developments to date” and Horse & Hound’s equestrian products expert Georgia Guerin said, “The Eclipse is one of the lightest and smallest cordless clippers” – it weighs in at just 845g. Georgia also noted its slim and comfortable grip, which “gives greater control and helps reduce wrist fatigue” when tackling your horse’s coat.

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Liveryman Black Beauty horse clippers review *H&H Approved*

£379

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

As winter fast approaches, and horses start to grow heavier coats, a lot of horse owners will be dusting off their clippers, thinking about the different types of horse clip and trying to decide which clip would suit their horse best.

Clipping off some or all of the horse’s winter coat will help prevent your horse from getting too warm and sweating profusely while exercising.

Before choosing the right clip for your horse, you need to consider how much work your horse or pony is doing, what turnout rugs you might need to keep him warm afterwards and whether your horse will be stabled or turned out.

And if you’re in need of a new handset to tackle the job this winter, check out some of the best horse clippers currently available.

Types of horse clip for medium and heavy work

1. Full clip

Workload: Heavy

What it involves: A full clip is when all hair is removed from your horse, including the legs, head and ears. It means that the horse dries out quickly after strenuous work as sweating is minimalised. Careful rugging to ensure your horse doesn’t get cold is essential, and you should also be aware of the increased possibilities of rain scald and mud fever due to the lack of natural protection offered by the horse’s coat.

2. Hunter clip

Workload: Heavy

What it involves: The hunter clip is another useful for those horses in heavy work. All hair is removed, bar the legs — the idea being the hair left on the legs helps to protect them from water and mud — and a saddle patch to help protect the back from the saddle. Lots of people will lightly trim the hair down the back of the horse’s legs to tidy them up. Again, careful rugging is required to prevent the horse from getting cold when not being worked.

3. Blanket clip

Workload: Medium

What it involves: Hair is left on the horse’s legs, as is the area where an exercise sheet would be. These are both areas that aren’t prone to sweating and so is useful for those turned out regularly, but still in medium work.

4. Chaser clip

Workload: Medium

What it involves: Very similar to a blanket clip but helps keep the muscles on the top of the neck warm too. The chaser clip is ideal for horses that are in medium work and turned out during the day when the weather permits. Many people lightly trim the longer hairs running down the back of the leg to give a neat finish.

Types of horse clip suitable for horses in light work

1. Trace clip

Workload: Light to medium

What it involves: The horse’s coat is removed from the underside of the belly and the chest and neck, and hair is left on the legs for protection and also on their head. This clip is very similar to the chaser clip, but only half of the neck hair is removed. It is a useful clip for those horses in a medium amount of work and that are turned out frequently.

2. Irish clip

Workload: Light to medium

What it involves: The Irish clip is useful for young horses and those in light work as it is quite quick and easy to do. Hair is clipped from the neck and behind the elbows, where a horse is susceptible to sweating the most, but there is still plenty of coat left on for warmth.

3. Bib clip

Workload: Light

What it involves: Just the hair from the front of the neck and chest is removed when using a bib clip. Some people also carry on the clip under the belly to where the girth sits too. This is a good clip for horses in light work and who are turned out a lot or living out full time.

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout Maryland, Horse of the Year Show and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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5 clipping challenges you need to prepare yourself for…

How to clip a horse: a video masterclass

My horse dislikes being clipped and won’t stand still — what should I do?

Here Jason Webb of Australian Horse Training gives one H&H forum user advice on clipping a horse that hates the

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Jason Webb of Your Horsemanship is a UK-based Australian horse trainer with a passion for starting young horses, solving equine problems and teaching riders of all abilities how to strengthen the partnership they have with their horses. Here Jason gives one horse owner advice on clipping a horse that is not keen on the process

Q: My horse dislikes being clipped and won’t stand still – “I have been avoiding clipping but with two native types that both get sweaty walking around the block and a hunter trial coming up, it has to be done. My Welsh is the problem. I’ve had him since he was a youngster — he’s lived a lovely life and he was bought him up with the clippers nicely — they were never was a problem. I used to clip just his belly loose in the stable as a three-year-old to get him used to it. I gave him a few treats, he liked it, then I progressed to a bigger clip the more work he was in.

“The older he’s got, the worse he’s become with clipping. Now as soon as I turn the clippers on, he runs back like a wild animal and his eyes pop out his head. He won’t ever kick or rear, but he won’t stand still. They are the same clippers I’ve always used and my other horse doesn’t have a problem, but he’s an out and out drama queen (he’s the same with every aspect of life).

“I really don’t want to pay for him to be sedated — do you have any ideas on how I can fix this? I’d leave him unclipped, but we have two fun rides coming up and he’ll get far too hot in his winter woollies!”

Jason Webb answers – This horse sounds like a natural worrier, which means it might only take the clippers or trimmers to pinch once or for someone to approach him differently or a little quickly to make him become suspicious. You will have to go back to the start with this horse. This means ensuring your groundwork is solid and that you are confident with the desensitising process before you even attempt to bring the clippers near him but it will be time well spent!

Before introducing the clippers, your basic groundwork must be good enough to enable you to place your horse where you want them to stand. This is key as a horse that is running all over you and who does not respect your space or have confidence in you will not cope well when you start desensitising work with them.

You need to be able to back them up, lead them forward, and move their shoulders, ribs and hindquarters to each side independently of each other. There are some simple exercises you can do to install this basic groundwork and this will help you managing your horse in everyday situations and are worth putting some time into. I recommend a rope halter and 12ft lead rope for this type of work. Once your groundwork is good enough you will be able to keep repositioning your horse easily and with minimum fuss.

The second process to go through with your horse is desensitising them to the clippers and the noise. I tend to start with other objects such as plastic bags and a bottle with some rocks in it with the aim of being able to move it all over their body. The head, ears and legs are the most sensitive areas of a horse so make sure they are confident with contact on their body before progressing to these parts. Should you find a sensitive area, try to stay where you are until your horse stops moving and relaxes, then remove the touch or noise. This rewards your horse for stopping and standing.

When you have been through the desensitisation process with a range of objects, you can try an electric toothbrush or similar device that makes a noise like clippers but on a smaller scale. Check out the clipper app online if you don’t want to use your toothbrush! You can then move on to the clippers themselves – start with them turned off, then move on to them turned on but with your hand between them and your horse. Work progressively until your horse is able to stand relaxed with the clippers making contact with their body. Only once you reach that point should you try removing any hair.

Here is a video that might help: yourhorsemanship.com/clipping-exercise/

For more information on Jason Webb and his online training base Your Horsemanship, where you can learn a foundation in horse training with online lessons in groundwork, starting, and ridden fundamentals, among other topics, visit his website

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout Horse of the Year Show, London International and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

If you want to know the best way to clip a horse from start to finish, you should find this video and its accompanying step-by-step guide helpful.

This archive video of Mary King and her former groom Jodie Summers clipping out the late Kings Temptress contains expert advice on what to wear, where to do it and how to get it right.

Before you start though, make sure you’ve got the best clippers for the job and decide which type of clip you’re going to do and draw on the lines with chalk if that’s helpful.

NOTE: this is archive material filmed in 2008

How to clip a horse: the basics

1. Wear appropriate clothing

• Wear sturdy footwear, ideally with steel toecaps
• Don’t wear fleecy clothes. Overalls are a good idea – if not, a long waterproof riding coat and/or waterproof trousers are handy
• Use a cap to keep your hair back or a riding hat for extra safety

2. Find the right location

• Outside gives good natural light
• Indoors is best in wet weather
• Choose a place where the horse is relaxed

3. Make sure the horse has a clean, dry coat to avoid blunting the blades. The best way to do this is by using a hot cloth or by bathing your horse.

4. When using mains clippers use a circuit breaker and be careful the horse does not stand on the wires.

5. Before starting to clip:

• Check the clippers are working
• Check the blades are in good order and have been recently sharpened
• Make sure the tension is correct. This is different for each clipper brand. For Lister Clippers, which were used in the video, screw the tension nut down until tight. Turn the tension nut back one and a half turns.
• Apply clipper oil along the teeth of the blades, and also on the sides at the heel

6. Introducing the clippers to the horse

• Show the horse the clippers while they are turned off
• Rub the clippers against the horse’s shoulder
• Take the clippers away and turn them on. Let the horse listen to the noise
• Take the clippers gently to the horse and place against the horse to feel the vibration
• If the horse appears relaxed you can start clipping

7. While clipping:

• Use long smooth strokes against the lie of the hair
• Stop every 10 minutes to clean the hair from the blades and apply oil along the teeth of the blades and also on the sides at the heel
• If the blades start to get hot, stop and set them aside to cool down, or swap to new blades. Apply a blade coolant spray if necessary. Do not put the blades in water or paraffin to cool them.
• Take your time!

8. When the clip is complete, wipe the horse down with a warm, damp sponge to remove any loose hair, then rug up appropriately.

9. Caring for your clippers:

• Brush off all the loose hairs
• Remove the tension set and the blades
• Clean the blades with a brush and/or rag and put them away. Do not put them back on the handset while in storage
• Clean the handset and pack away carefully
• Store your clippers in a cool, dry place
• Send your clippers and blades away at the end of the clipping season to be serviced and sharpened ready for the following year

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

With the falling of both leaves and temperatures comes woolly coats — and the return of the clipping season. While there’s nothing more satisfying than a neatly-clipped horse, all velvet smooth and ready to work without working up a sweat, getting to that point isn’t always plain sailing...

Mechanical issues

Clipper maintenance is essential, of course, and you could swear you put your favourite horse clippers away clean and oiled after the final clip of the season months ago. So how it is when you dig out that little plastic carrying case, what lies inside is suspiciously hair-encrusted? And why is there an ominous whine and stink of overheating when you finally get them going?

Mud monster moment

After getting your clippers back following a service — the bill for which makes you feel faint — it’s time to prep Prancer for his conversion from furry bear to sleek superstar. Trouble is, Prancer has been taking an advanced course in Rug Destruction And Removal and has finally graduated with full honours; when you fetch him in from the field, the latest victim is a sad little heap of tatters on the ground and Prancer is wearing what can only be described as a Full Mud Jacket.

To be blunt about it…

It’s taken 12 hours for the mud crust to dry sufficiently for you to begin the filthy job of brushing it back off again. An hour later, and with your face and general upper body area resembling a miner emerging from a shift down t’pit, you’re ready to get clipping. Extension lead sorted and clipper oil applied, Prancer stands patiently while you begin what feels oddly like clipping a shag pile rug with a pair of nail scissors. It’s not until Prancer gets cross enough to stand on your foot for the third time that you realise the blades have helpfully gone blunt during their summer holiday.

Blurred lines

Another eye-watering bill later for express blade sharpening and you’re ready to finish what you started. Thankfully, trussing Prancer up in a rug that is the equivalent of an equine straightjacket means the prep job isn’t quite as bad this time, and you’re soon confidently removing large swathes of hair. Unfortunately, Prancer hasn’t quite forgotten the first attempt’s tug-and-nip sensation courtesy of the blunt blades and this time he decides to live up to his name. The first go at tracing a neat line isn’t too bad, but getting the other hind leg to match is more challenging and you suddenly understand what is meant when people say “you can’t stick it back on again”.

Seven-hour itch

It seemed like a good idea to clip Prancer first thing in the morning, and you cleverly made sure you dressed in the equivalent to a biohazard suit to avoid hair reaching every nook and cranny. But despite your best efforts, it’s soon apparent there was a breach in your defences and you’re itching and scratching like a flea-infested mutt. By the end of what feels like the longest day ever, you can’t wait to get home and shower. It’s just unfortunate that your other half chooses the precise moment you’re undressing to walk in and witness what must rate as the least attractive sight since you were sick in front of him on your second date after a dodgy kebab. Apparently it is possible to “stick it back on”, just so long as you’re sticking it to your chest. Who knew?

You might also be interested in:

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The Great Yorkshire Show (GYS) has introduced a rule banning excessive trimming of equine ear hair in the interests of horse welfare.

The show, which this year runs from 11-14 July, banned the trimming of whiskers and other sensory hairs before the 2022 event. A new rule for this year states: “Following several enquiries regarding trimming of ear hair, as part of reg.78 the hair on the internal aspect of the ear pinna should not be excessively trimmed as it performs a protective function against insects, sun and foreign objects.”

GYS entries and livestock coordinator Amanda Stoddart-West told H&H that although ear hairs may not be exactly like whiskers, “they do serve an important protective role”.

“Traditionally ears were always trimmed for purely cosmetic purposes to achieve the neatest look possible, but we must move with the times and put the animal’s needs first, and if it’s felt it’s necessary, an ear can be trimmed externally without touching the inner hair,” she said.

“Some breed societies do have rules stating that animals must be shown in a natural state and I would hope some of the other showing bodies will be moving in the right direction where the animal’s needs move higher up the priority list, so this sort of thing becomes the norm.

“Change can be difficult for all of us but having introduced the whisker rule last year, all animals bar one had its whiskers on which was very pleasing.”

Mrs Stoddart-West added that a number of people had asked for the ban.

“I think people are becoming more and more educated, and realise these inner ear hairs have a function,” she said. “Where classes allow it, we’re not saying ‘Ears are not to be trimmed at all’, just do it with thought, and consideration for your animal.”

The rule states that the society “may take actions against anyone who is in breach of any of our regulations”.

This could mean that if any of the GYS veterinary team were to spot a horse or pony with excessively trimmed inner ear hair, that animal may be prevented from competing.

GYS head equine vet Julian Rishworth told H&H: “I applaud and support the Great Yorkshire Show’s strong stance on welfare. The aesthetics of the horse should never come with a compromise to welfare, however seemingly small.”

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

With the nights starting to draw in here in the UK, there is no denying that autumn is on its way. Make sure you and your horse are ready for the colder weather with our seasonal horse care guide.

1. Hardcore

Putting hardcore down in gateways before the winter will help these areas stay compact, and prevent them from becoming too muddy and slippery.

2. Winter rugs

If you didn’t get your winter rugs cleaned and repaired in the spring, now is the time to do it. Or if you need new rugs, it’s time to go shopping! Check out our guides to the best lightweights, medium weights, heavyweights and the best rugs if you’re on a budget.

3. Clippers

Get your clippers serviced and the blades sharpened by a specialist so you are ready to tackle those winter woolies. Watch our clipping masterclass video to learn how to clip like the experts.

4. Worming

Autumn is the ideal time to test horses for tapeworm and treat if necessary, while vets recommend all horses should be wormed for encysted small redworm during November/December. So now is the time to get organised and order your worming supplies, checking that the active ingredients are the right ones for the the types of worms you are targeting.

5. Bedding

Choose bedding wisely if your horse is to be stabled in the coming colder months. If your horse suffers from respiratory problems they may benefit from a dust-free bedding combined with rubber matting. You may find you can save yourself money by buying in bulk.

6. Dietary changes

If your horse is overweight, the next few months is the ideal time to slim him down. If he is inclined to lose weight, now is the time to start thinking about his autumn/winter feeding regime before any weight loss occurs as there are plenty of feeds that can help with weight gain. Remember that good quality forage should form the basis of your feeding regime before turning to cereal-based feeds. Feeding oil will also help maintain condition.

7. Mud fever

Mud fever is often seen in autumn if conditions are wet and muddy. Avoid long periods of exposure to these conditions, as bacteria from the soil can enter the horse’s body through damaged skin or cuts. Barrier creams can also be used to help protect from wet and mud.

8. Vaccinations

Check if your horse’s vaccinations are due. Contact your vet if you are unsure what vaccinations your horse needs.

9. TeethGet your vet or equine dental technician to check your horse’s teeth before winter, to ensure they are able to make the most of their feed. This is particularly important for youngsters and older horses.

10. Grass

Laminitis is commonly associated with spring grass, but cool nights followed by sunny days in autumn can also be a risk. If you own a laminitis-prone horse consider whether you need to restrict their grass intake.

11. Fly gear

Clean your fly sheets and fly masks and store them ready for use in the spring. Bring all your fly sprays, shampoos and other liquids indoors to prevent freezing and thawing, which may make them less effective.

12. ‘Winterise’ your yardAfter the ground has frozen you won’t be able to sink new fence posts, so make sure they are all secure now. Check gutters and downpipes are in good condition and clear of debris. Insulate your pipes and unhook hoses when not in use, especially during the night when it may drop below freezing.

13. Cooling

If your horse typically works up a sweat while being ridden, have a wool or fleece cooler to hand to throw over him while he’s cooling down to prevent him from becoming chilled.

14. Shooting

If you live in an area where deer stalking or shooting may occur, it is best to avoid riding out at peak times. Dress yourself and your horse in hi-vis and talk to your fellow riders to make sure you can be seen and heard.

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Lister has announced the launch of its latest product, the Lister Eclipse. Described as one of Lister’s “most exciting developments to date”, the Eclipse weighs in at just 845g, which makes it the smallest and lightest cordless clipper available on the market. The most significant release from Lister prior to this dates back to the Lister Fusion launch in 2019.

Designed with the aim to improve the overall clipping experience, the ergonomic design of the Eclipse offers greater control, easier handling, better flexibility and manoeuvrability than previous models. The handset contains a lithium-ion battery that uses the latest technology and has a charge time and run time of 2 hours 10 mins.

The Lister Eclipse will also be the first handset from the company that will come in cardboard packaging. The bespoke box has been designed to perfectly encase the clipper and accessories, but is sourced locally and easily recyclable in efforts to reduce the company’s carbon footprint.

The Eclipse is available at shoplister-global.com and in stores from today (5 July 2022) with an RRP of £390. Each box contains a handset, battery, charger, charging stand, cleaning brush, fine blade and clipper oil.

Lister is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of clippers and has held a Royal Warrant for more than 60 years. Other well-known and popular products include the Lister Star, Lister Legend and Lister Fusion – all of which feature in our guide to the best horse clippers.

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Liveryman Black Beauty horse clippers review *H&H Approved*

£379

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Liveryman Bruno lightweight clipper and trimmer

My first impressions of the Liveryman Bruno clipper and trimmer when I unboxed it was that the handset was lightweight and the soft carry case, complete with clipper oil and a brush for cleaning, would be useful to keep everything neat and tidy.

They came fitted with the A5 1.6mm narrow blade, which is a clip on blade that doesn’t require tensioning, and was suitable for clipping tricky areas such as around the head and legs. They only weigh 400g and are easy to hold, but personally I prefer to use a cordless machine when clipping out legs and heads in particular, and found the 4.9m long mains cable did get in the way at times.

These clippers/trimmers also don’t have any option to adjust the length of the clip without switching blades. That said they did a good job and left a smart finish on a range of coats.

They are very quiet with low vibration and have two speed settings to choose from, making them ideal for horses that are nervous or uncomfortable with a larger, more powerful motor.

These are described by Liveryman as suitable to be used as either a clipper or a trimmer, by switching between the different width snap on A5 blades. I tested them as a trimmer with the narrower blades. And they can be used used with the Liveryman Black Beauty lithium ion battery pack (available for purchase separately) if you need to clip and don’t have main power, which is useful, although I didn’t have the opportunity to test them with the battery pack.

Verdict

The Liveryman Bruno clippers/trimmer are lightweight and leave a good finish when clipping tricking areas.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk, sportsdirect.com or ebay.co.uk

Who tested these clippers?

Lucie Holt is a professional groom based in Hertfordshire who specialises in all types of “equine hairdressing” through her horsehairdressing business. She has more than 15 years experience in clipping, plaiting and pre-show turnout, including using horse hair extensions to improve manes and tails for competition, film work and advertising photo shoots.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

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Best horse clippers for taming every type of winter coat

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

A smart, tidy mane can go a long way in improving the overall look of your horse, plus, it’s easier for you to manage and maintain on a daily basis. But how exactly should you go about pulling a mane, and what are some of the pro’s top tips? Here is how to pull a horse’s mane…

How to pull a horse’s mane

1. Consider thickness 

Sara Parrott and her partner Craig Elenor show a range of types and breeds of horses and ponies, many of which require well-pulled manes for plaiting purposes.

“We opt for the traditional method with a comb — separating the hair, backcombing small sections and pulling from the root — if dealing with a thick mane,” explains Sara. “If a pony has a thinner mane — like many of the Welsh breeds do — we would still backcomb the hair, but use kitchen scissors to thin it out, as traditional pulling might take out too much.”

Show horse producer Vicky Smith also opts for the traditional method of mane pulling:

“I wouldn’t use a solo comb or rake unless the horse really hates having its mane pulled,” she says. “We have a mare who is the easiest horse day to day but she finds it so uncomfortable so we use a rake on her. Sometimes you have to put safety first.”

Standard advice is to tidy manes and tails after exercise, when the horse is warm.

“It works better if the horse is hot as the hair comes out easier, so maybe look to do it after your horse has been hacked or schooled,” Sara confirms. 

2. Avoid clean hair

While you might naturally think to tidy your horse’s mane after you’ve given him a bath before a competition, Sara advises against this and that it’s actually better to tackle the mane first.

“The dirtier the mane is, the better,” she says. “If the hair is too clean and slippery you can’t grab hold of it and get a good grip. Also, for the same reason, make sure the mane has no detangler or shine spray in it.”

3. Know your breed and type 

If you own a mountain and moorland (M&M) pony you should wise up on specific breed standards and class expectations so you can trim and manage the hair accordingly. 

Many of the native breeds — such as Exmoors, Fells, Dales and Highlands — should be shown with their manes left in a natural state and should not be subject to any trimming. 

If trimming in a certain breed is permitted, the emphasis is usually that it should be minimal and left in as natural state as possible. The British Show Pony Society provides helpful summaries on how to present your M&M pony for the show ring. If in doubt, get in touch with the relevant breed society who will be happy to provide advice.

“You need to pull the mane for the type of horse you’re riding and class you’re competing in,” says Vicky. “I keep a hunter’s mane thicker than a hack’s mane, as I want the plaits to be a little bigger.

“I see lots of M&M ponies with manes which look too ‘pulled’ — with a native you must be careful as you want it to look natural. If it does look too straight at the bottom trim into it with some scissors or pull out a few strands with your fingers. If in doubt, always ask a professional for their advice.”

4. Assess the overall picture 

“Craig tends to cross-tie the horses in the yard and so he can stand back and look at the overall picture of the horse,” says Sara. “This way, you are viewing it from the judge’s perspective. It sounds simple but it makes a difference. 

“If looking to plait a mane, it’s essential to have the main equal and level; a well-pulled mane is the key to having balanced plaits on top of the neck.”

Likewise, Vicky would always get a horse out of the stable, tie him up and ask someone to stand at his head while pulling a mane:

“You also want to avoid getting crushed,” she says. “My girls will practice their plaiting before we go to a show, too, so you can gauge if the mane is still too thick.”

5. Other methods

Some riders and grooms may opt to use a solo comb or thinning rake to tidy a mane, especially if a horse is sensitive and objects to the traditional method.

“If using a rake the hair isn’t being pulled from the root so be careful that it doesn’t get too thin on the bottom and stay thick on top,” says Vicky. 

As an alternative to pulling manes, especially on fine-coated horses whose manes need shortening rather than thinning, show producer Lynn Russell uses an old clipper blade, backcombing the top hair and nipping off a few hairs at a time from the underneath section with the blade, to give a neat but natural line.

Scissors can be used as a last resort, but the right technique is essential to avoid an ugly “club cut.” Some riders opt for a pair of round-ended scissors which cut into the mane from underneath, at an angle.

“Snip just a few hairs at a time and comb down the mane after every cut before you move on to the next hairs,” she says. “Snip at an angle or the effect is too blunt. And if you want to thin a mane, break the rules and use a metal comb every day on the underneath section and you’ll take out hair without even trying.”

At the start of the season in spring, when the bottom part of the mane might have suffered from some rug rubbing, Vicky would lightly trim the hair:

“Otherwise you will end up with an uneven mane throughout the season,” she says.

You might also be interested in:

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Liveryman Black Beauty clippers

Having happily clipped horses of all shapes and sizes for the best part of 20 years with another brand of mains-powered clipper, the Liveryman Black Beauty clippers have completely converted me and they are now my clipper of choice.

These clippers are lightweight and easy to use with tension and blade fitting being very straight forward. They are ideal for a professional as they can cope with clipping multiple horses in a row without the blades getting hot. They are supplied with a2 medium blades (2.5mm), which provides a good finish, but they also take an a22 fine blade (1.5mm) if needed.

I’ve clipped all types of horse with these – from Shetlands to thoroughbreds – and the finish has been excellent in all cases. They really do just glide through any thickness of coat.

I particularly like that they have the option to adjust the speed they run at, so if you’re clipping a horse with a particularly fine coat, or doing around the head or legs, you can slow them down, which also reduces the noise slightly if you’re dealing with a sensitive horse. Then you can set the speed back up to full for a hairier horse with a thicker coat or while you are clipping the horse’s body.

The clippers come fitted with an A2 blade, with oil, brush and instruction manual in a robust carry case that is ideal for keeping everything you need at hand, whether that’s in the back of the car or stored in the tack room between uses. I think they are great value for money.

I would be interested to try them with the optional litium-ion battery pack to see if they are equally powerful when not running off the mains – I have no reason to assume they would run any differently, but it would be nice to test it. Having the flexibility to turn these mains clippers into a battery-powered version is an added bonus (clippers complete with battery pack RRP £479), as not all stable yards have mains power and the ability to move around without trailing live cables is be very useful when dealing with nervous horses.

Verdict

H&H Approved – I absolutely love the Liveryman Black Beauty clippers. There is nothing about them I would like to change. They are my first choice for all horse clipping tasks when mains power is available.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

Who tested these clippers?

Lucie Holt is a professional groom based in Hertfordshire who specialises in all types of “equine hairdressing” through her horsehairdressing business. She has more than 15 years experience in clipping, plaiting and pre-show turnout, including using horse hair extensions to improve manes and tails for competition, film work and advertising photo shoots.

• Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

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Heiniger Xplorer clippers

Having not used Heiniger clippers before, I was looking forward to testing the Heiniger Xplorer clippers. On first impressions they looked to be a quality set of clippers, that were lightweight, comfortable to hold and easy to charge. Once turned on I was impressed with how quiet they were, which combined with no cord, makes them ideal for nervous horses and those being clipped for the first time.

Although Heiniger clippers don’t follow the typical “tighten then turn back one-and-half” instructions to tension, I had no problems setting the tension correctly just by listening to the sound of the blades. (There is a useful video available to help if anyone is unsure.)

I found the battery doesn’t take long to charge and gave me plenty of time to do three straight-forward clips on a single charge (battery advertised as lasting 2hrs when fully charged).

They were great on thick coats – they cut through a shaggy Shetland’s hair like a knife through butter and left a great finish, although they probably wouldn’t be my first choice for clipping a horse with very fine coat or doing fiddly bits like full legs using the standard blades that they came with. You can, of course, purchase different blades in addition to the standard set.

The clippers come in a sturdy carry case that contains the clippers with a standard set of blades and battery, battery charger, oil, cleaning brush, a screwdriver and instructions. The three-year warranty gives peace of mind.

Verdict

A professional set of cordless clippers that, while not the cheapest on the market, are easy to use and give a good finish, particularly on horses with thicker coats.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

Who tested these clippers?

Lucie Holt is a professional groom based in Hertfordshire who specialises in all types of “equine hairdressing” through her horsehairdressing business. She has more than 15 years experience in clipping, plaiting and pre-show turnout, including using horse hair extensions to improve manes and tails for competition, film work and advertising photo shoots.

• Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

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Best horse clippers for taming every type of winter coat

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5 reasons why a subscription to HorseandHound.co.uk makes the perfect last-minute gift

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

The next Black Friday is 25 November, 2022. When the time comes, don’t worry about scouring the internet for the best horse clipper deals and special offers as we will be doing the hard work for you by gathering them together here...

Clippers are a big expense – but a great investment if you can get a great pair for a good price – so Black Friday horse clippers sales are a great opportunity. Whether you’re looking for clippers that can cope with doing a whole yard, new blades or a pocket-sized trimmer, this is the place to find and compare all the best deals.

There aren’t an awful lot of clipper deals to be had on Friday as we’re in prime clipping season – but there are still some good ones to be had. We will be regularly updating this page with the very best Black Friday horse clippers deals that we can find, as well as H&H exclusive discounts.

In the meantime, check out our buying guides to see the best of what’s on the market…

• clippers – including light duty, medium duty and heavy duty
• trimmers

What is Black Friday?

For consumers and retailers in the UK, Black Friday is a recent phenomenon, but it has been going strong the United States for decades.

Black Friday is the first Friday after Thanksgiving and is traditionally seen as the start of the Christmas shopping season, with high street retailers opening their doors at the crack of dawn and offering big discounts for shoppers who have set their alarm clocks.

The rise of internet shopping has allowed the Black Friday tradition to spread throughout the world, and it hasn’t passed the equestrian world by either. From your local tack shop to massive online retailers, there will be great discounts to be had.

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Clipping season is upon us, and many of us are thinking about which clip to give our beloved steeds this year. A trace? A chaser? A hunter?

While we’d all like our horses to come out looking like the illustrations in the BHS manual, sometimes things don’t quite go according to plan.

1. The spot bot

This striking little number can be seen on horses that aren’t keen on being clipped. Perhaps you’ve just got this horse and haven’t had time to get him fully accustomed, or perhaps he’s got one particularly bad spot that you can’t get to. Either way, you find yourself adopting the ‘little and often’ policy, and clipping that hair off in stages at the rate of about an inch a day. By the time you finish, the hair on his neck is starting to grow back again. Your horse looks a bit motheaten for months.

2. The half and half

Hands up, this one’s your fault. Your horse stands like a saint, but once you’d got about halfway down his shoulders something went wrong — the motor went on the clippers, the power tripped or you accidentally broke the blades. This is less of a clip, and more of a patchwork quilt.

3. The harder than it looks #1

Your usual person can’t come out for weeks, or you’ve just got a new very hairy pony who needs clipping practically every 10 minutes. You’ve begged, borrowed or invested in a set of clippers, and you’ve decided this is the year you have a go yourself. Afterall, your horse stands like a rock so how hard can it be? Turns out, harder than you thought. No-one’s told you about marking the lines out beforehand, so one side of your horse looks like a map of the Andes, while the line on other side is several inches higher. Also, you weren’t quite sure what to do about the top of the legs but it probably wasn’t what you actually did. You quietly buy an exercise sheet.

4. The sorry with a fringe on top

Your lines are lovely and straight, but being the perfectionist that you are you’re convinced that one side is slightly higher than the other. So you take a bit more off. Then off the other side as well. The off the first side again. In no time at all, there is so little left that you might as well take the whole lot off.

Article continues below…

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5. The harder than it looks #2

You’ve seen some beautiful photos of ‘clipping art’ on social media — owners who have clipped their horses’ names into their coat, along with hearts, stars and more. You borrow some tiny trimmers and get stuck in. Three hours later, you think it’s going quite well until the yard dog barks suddenly, making you jump, and your hand jerks accidentally changing the ‘e’ in Betty to an ‘o’. Hey ho, that’s three hours you’ll never get back.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Call us over-optimistic, but with the sun shining today it’s got us thinking — could spring be lurking around the corner? We think it might be (preferably with a lot less rain too)...

1. It’s WHAT time and it’s still light?

You’ve begun your annual ritual of tracking minute-by-minute as the amount of daylight increases and started to chart when you’re going to be able to fit in a post-work ride.

2. Clothes confusion

You’ve booked your tickets to the Grand National — but what on earth are you going to wear? In fear of being named and shamed in the Daily Mail’s annual round-up of inappropriate get-ups, you might have to opt for tweed — and just embrace overheating.

3. Tackling the electric fencingYou know that the new grass is going to catch you by surprise and that only means one thing — you have an afternoon of unraveling last year’s tape ahead of you. Note to self: don’t put it away in a hurry next time.

4. Guilt-free turnout is in sightYou’re counting the days until you can turn your horse out for the night without pangs of guilt — and enjoy the luxury of not having to muck out in the morning. What will you do with all that extra time?

5. Putting your winter-warmers awayYou’ve remembered what feeling your toes is like post-mucking out. And you’ve downgraded to fumble-free fingerless gloves.

6. Going on a hunting bingeYou’re panic booking days off work for some mid-week hunting to get your fix before the season ends.

7. Terrifying flowersYou have to sit tight riding into the woods as your horse knows those snowdrops were absolutely definitely not there last week and they are very white and very scary and therefore worthy of great suspicion, wide nostrils and sudden about turns.

8 . What’s that smell?The muckheap is at its mighty, steaming height, signalling the need for imminent removal and (hallelujah) horses soon going out for longer.

9. Eventing excitement

It’s just weeks until the eventing season kicks off at Isleham, which means it’s time to start manically Googling where you can get in some pre-season cross-country schooling.

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10. Remembering what warm feels like

You begin a schooling session in four layers and a thick scarf, and have to strip down to a t-shirt after just 10 minutes. Your red complexion has got you questioning your fitness…

11. Remembering how to sit a buck

There’s a general increase in impulsion/enthusiasm/airs above the ground from your four months-deprived now sugar-high equine.

12. Clipping dilemmas

To clip or not to clip? Making the agonising decision about whether there’s time for one more. And then rug quandaries begin. If only your horse could let you know if he’s too hot… and could swap his rug accordingly.

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Horses competing under FEI rules are no longer allowed to have their legs clipped while on site at a competition.

The change is an update to the FEI’s policy to help combat “hypersensitive” or “hyposensitive” areas of the body of equine athletes.

The rule change came into effect on 1 January and applies to all FEI disciplines. It comes under Article 1004, prohibited methods, of the FEI veterinary regulations 2019.

The rule states that horses are not permitted to compete in FEI events “if the hair on their limbs has been clipped/and or shaven at any point during their presence at an FEI event site”.

An FEI spokesman told H&H the rule has been updated to stop the practice of shaving and clipping legs to make them hypersensitive or hyposensitive.

“According to FEI regulations horses with altered sensitivity are not eligible to compete, ie horses are not eligible to compete when a limb, or part of a limb, is hyposensitive or hypersensitive,” said the spokesman.

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The spokesman added that shaving or clipping legs shortly before a jumping competition is considered a “method that in itself may increase the sensitivity of the horse” and that it could also be a “preparation for the application of substances that are intended to cause hypersensitivity”.

The rules also states that if clipping or shaving is required for veterinary purposes at an event, prior permission must be granted by the veterinary commission or veterinary delegate to the permitted treating veterinarian before any investigation or treatment takes place.

Clipping of legs that takes place before a horse arrives on site for an FEI competition is still acceptable.

Don’t miss part two of H&H’s essential Show Guide out now. Check out our feature on how to survive show day, plus we visit Florida-based showjumper Amanda Derbyshire. In our Cheltenham review we meeting Emma Lavelle’s big hope, Paisley Park and we chat to top jockey Daryl Jacob. 

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Winter has definitely arrived, and with it a number of owners have recently asked me: “Why has my horse turned into a monster since the clocks have gone back?”

I do a monthly webinar for Your Horsemanship members, and this month’s topic was on how to keep your horse sane and reliable through the winter months. When the clocks go back, it usually means there is less time to ride and less turnout for your horse, and as owners, we need to recognise this and change their feed and routine accordingly, as the majority of problems are caused by horses being over-fed and under-worked. Horses evolved having times of plenty and times of hardship, and they developed strategies such as growing thick, water resistant coats to combat the winter months. With our domesticated horses, we are now so quick to rug them, stable them and increase their feed, because we tend to put our human reactions to the winter on to our horses! Of course, you have to treat all horses as individuals, but unless your horse is kept in work, the majority are perfectly fine with ad-lib roughage and a decent mineral block in their stable or field.

I had a great time as always at Your Horse Live. I did a talk on desensitising horses to clippers, which is also a very apt topic of conversation at this time of year. I follow a four-step process to convince your horse that the clippers aren’t going to eat him!

1. Show the clippers aren’t a predator by leading your horse behind you with the portable clippers (or an electric toothbrush!) in your hand. This has the effect of making the horse feel like he is moving the clippers away from him, and will create curiosity rather than fear.

2. Removal of the fear that they will be pounced on. If you keep your clippers still, your horse may think they are a predator that is about to pounce. Therefore, hold them still, away from your horse, and ask them to step forward towards them.

3. Teaching your horse to stand still with the clippers running, with the horse in-hand rather than tied up.

4. Making contact with the clippers, firstly with them turned off, then with them turned on, all the while your free hand should also be in contact with the horse (again the horse should be in-hand, rather than tied up).

As the event took place over Remembrance Sunday, I thought you’d like to see this stunning clip done by the Clippersharp team.

I also did three “spook-busting” demonstrations over the weekend with different horses, including dressage rider, Anna Miller’s stunning Ares. I went through the initial methods you need to adopt in order to control a horse that is spooking, before elaborating on the processes I use to actually fix the problem.

There are different forms of spooking, and horses have varying levels of education, so you need to have a number of strategies to deal with each situation.

If a horse is young or uneducated, my first aim is to keep the horse’s head going in the direction you want to go in, and not worry about what the rest of their body is doing! If my horse spooks, I use one rein to turn him back, which controls the spook, and then the opposite rein to re-establish them on the original track. These two one-rein turns combine to form an “S” shape. Using the S turns correctly will also encourage your horse to gravitate to the outside track. Over time, your horse will want to stay on the outside track, and therefore will be less likely to spook at something on the outside of an arena, which is where most of the “scary monsters” are lurking!

Article continues below…

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I finished each of my demonstrations with Diesel, who captured the hearts of the crowd by picking up pairs of Toggi socks and caps in his teeth and delivering them to members of the audience! He was so beautifully behaved, I started to wonder what was wrong with him, as he usually makes me look stupid at least a couple of times over the course of the event. I have my Christmas coffee morning on 14 December, so maybe he’ll take out his revenge on me then… Everyone is welcome to come along to see me working with some special guests, and who knows, you may even get a present from Diesel!

Jason

For all the latest equestrian news and reports, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A charity “clipathon” held at Addington Manor Equestrian Centre has raised more than £10k for mental health charity MIND.

 Organiser Katy Barr and her team of 10 professional grooms smashed their target when they clipped 107 horses in 12 hours — making the fundraiser the largest event of its kind ever held.

 Katy was inspired to undertake the challenge after hearing of the death of teenager and keen equestrian Bradley John, who took his own life after being bullied.

 “I spoke to Bradley’s father Byron a few weeks beforehand to get his blessing because we wanted to honour him,” Katy explained.

 “We didn’t just want to raise a lot of money and do what we can for MIND but we also wanted to get people talking, and let them know that it’s OK to not be OK and ask for help.

 “Mental health issues are rife in the grooming and farming industries and it’s something we need to make people more aware of.”

 Katy first came up with the idea for a clipathon a few years ago after losing a friend to pancreatic cancer and wanting to raise funds for Macmillan.

 “I thought ‘I don’t like running and swimming and I don’t want to do what everyone else does. What can I do? I know, I’ll clip some horses!’” she explained. “I set a target to clip as many as I could in 12 hours and I managed 11 — I could have done a few more but I got kicked quite badly by number nine and my knee started to give way! We managed to raise £2,000.”

 Katy said she had been thinking of attempting the feat again and asked some friends if they would be interested in helping.

 “After that, the whole thing just snowballed into something bigger than I ever imagined,” she said.

 She added that she was “ecstatic” to have raised so much money for MIND.

 “I wanted to use my skills to run a charity event with a difference, for a cause that’s incredibly close to my heart,” she said.

“I’m lucky enough to know several other crazy grooms who are up for a challenge and who care about this cause as much as I do. I can’t thank them enough and together we absolutely smashed the target.”

 Katy also ran a silent auction and raffle as part of the event, which took place on November 3, helping to boost the proceeds way beyond her original £2,000 goal.

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Groom aims to clip 100 horses in 12 hours #clipathon

Katy is aiming to raise £2,000 for the mental health charity MIND

 “Some very generous businesses, along with an incredibly generous donation from a charitable foundation, meant that we beat our target by more than 500%,” she said. “If we can help just one person by doing this, we’ll be happy.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Clipping is one of those jobs that while often necessary, is typically dreaded by those having to do it. Those tiny hairs get everywhere! So to make it just that bit more enjoyable, check out the creations of those people who have an amazing talent in ‘clip art’. Here’s just a few that will make you look twice and wonder how on earth they managed it…

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A freelance groom is raising funds for mental health charity MIND by aiming to clip 100 horses in 12 hours.

Katy Barr from Buckinghamshire, accompanied by nine friends, is holding “The Big MIND Clipathon” at Addington Manor Equestrian Centre on 3 November 2018.

Katy told H&H: “I first came up with the idea 18 months ago. I lost a friend to pancreatic cancer and another friend was battling aggressive breast cancer and I decided to raise funds for the cancer charity Macmillan.

“I wanted to do something original. I don’t like running and and I couldn’t swim so I thought what can I do? I know I can clip. During my first attempt last year I clipped 11 horses in 11 hours on my own. I got kicked by the ninth horse and that cut me short, but I raised £2,000 for Macmillan.”

Katy has enlisted the help of friends and is hoping to set a Guinness world record.

“I put up a post on Facebook and I was inundated with friends wanting to clip with me. We are really excited and are in the application process with Guinness.

“We will have as many sets of clippers for each person as possible plus blades. In the effort to keep going as much as we can, we want to keep clippers cool so they clip well and keep the horses comfortable,” said Katy.

“All the horses will be cross tied as we feel this is safer for them and for us clipping. With the set up we will have at Addington, the horse can be moved to a stable if they are more comfortable there.

“Each person clipping will have at least one person holding and helping them, alongside the owner. I always feel this is necessary for everyone’s safety, with eyes on the horse the whole time and keeping the horse calm and quiet.”

Katy is hoping to raise £2,000 for MIND and is holding the clipathon in memory of Bradley John, 14, who died on the 14 September, having been bullied at school.

“I thought if I was going to do this for anything, that would be the perfect cause to push towards because it’s very real and is happening right now. Everyone can be affected by loneliness and isolation,” said Katy. “In my job and in the farming and equestrian community you can spend so much time on your own. Farmers and grooms are stoic, we just keep our heads down and do our thing but it’s hard and some people cope, and some don’t.

“People think talking about it can be seen as weak so it’s making sure people realise that if you’re feeling like that it’s not a bad thing. If we save just one person and make them feel that they are not on their own and that there is someone out there who will help them that would be great,” she said.

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“We want people to know someone will listen to you,” said Katy. “We want to do well and raise money for the charity, but we also really want to raise awareness and have people talking about the charity and talking to each other about how bad your day was. That’s what’s really important.

“I couldn’t be doing it without the help of friends and we are incredibly honoured and lucky to be holding the event at Addington Manor. They have given us the use of facilities free of charge – they have been so supportive of the cause and happy to help.”

Katy is actively looking for horses to be clipped on the day at Addington and owners wishing for their horses to be involved can contact The Big MIND Clipathon Facebook page. Donations to the fundraiser can be made to the JustGiving page.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

That show is coming up, you want your horse immaculately turned out, but do you shave his whiskers? It’s a divisive subject. On one hand, the whiskers — also called vibrissae — arguably serve essential sensory functions, while on the other hand, a horse with no excess hair on his face is deemed aesthetically pleasing.

In 1998, Germany outlawed whisker shaving. Paragraph six of the German Animal Welfare Law prohibits trimming the vibrissae around eyes and muzzle, as well as clipping or cutting the hairs inside the ears. Practically, this means a competitor with a shaved horse can be disqualified from a show.

It remains legal in Britain, although the BHS and many British riders find it troubling.

Gemma Stanford, the BHS Director of Welfare, told H&H: “The purpose of the horse’s whiskers both around the eyes and muzzle provide sensory feedback on the horse’s environment. The length of the whiskers determines the safe distance from unfamiliar objects or substances and enables them to determine unfamiliar characteristics of food or detect small inedible objects providing an environmental map.

“The whiskers present on both upper and lower eyelids provide tactile stimulation and elicit the blink response. Due to the whiskers having a good nerve supply they are even thought to be capable of picking up vibrational energy (sound).”

Rachel Jordan lives in Gloucestershire, competing two horses in showing and dressage. She reflects: “I do think it makes their everyday lives more comfortable to keep [whiskers].”

When she started showing her older horse, she was encouraged to remove her whiskers but refused, explaining: “If a judge wanted to give her a lower placing because she had whiskers, that just reflects poorly on the showing scene in my opinion. It’s only by standing against these old ‘norms’ that you can change them.”

Professional groom Hollie Haynes worked on a thoroughbred preparation yard for 11 years and is now freelance. Her boss used to shave whiskers, because he thought the young thoroughbreds sold for more money, but, she says: “Horses need them for feeling in the dark and sensing how close items are to their muzzle. I have seen horses bang their heads after having them removed because they don’t realise they no longer have them.”

While there’s anecdotal evidence suggesting horses with trimmed vibrissae are more prone to facial injuries, there is no direct scientific proof of how, and to what degree, vibrissae inform horses about their environment.

According to Dutch veterinarian Machteld Van Dierendonck, studies of vibrissae had been conducted on rodents and sea mammals, with the results applied to horses, but none had actually looked at horses. So she ran a pilot study examining the function of equine whiskers and the effect of shaving them. She had no definitive results and speculated that it could be due to a number of factors: a small sample size, methods that didn’t work, or equine whiskers not being as vital as scientists thought.

People who shave whiskers argue they haven’t noticed any adverse effects. Yard manager Laura White says: “I shave of all my horses’ whiskers and have done for over 15 years. I’ve never had a horse that has a problem with it. I shave them off because I think they look smarter without them, but it’s personal preference.”

Continued below…

15 impressively artistic clips to leave mere mortals stunned

Some people have an amazing talent in 'clip art'. Here's just a few that will make you look twice and

It’s not an all-or-nothing thing, either. Jessica Moore, a groom for international showjumpers, remarks: “One of my FEI horses would grow what appeared to be a handlebar moustache if he went much more than a week between trims. I also believe the purpose of the guard hairs on the muzzle aren’t of much use to domestic horses who live in extremely controlled environments like stalls and small to medium paddocks.”

But she doesn’t clip the vibrissae near the eyes, reasoning: “I do believe the guard hairs around the eyes are important and absolutely do help protect horses from the random eye injuries that can happen even in the box.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A skilled “horse barber” who has previously hit the headlines with her innovative clips has come up with a sweet new design for 2018 — hoping to raise money for cancer charity Macmillan.

This year Melody Hames has trimmed her eight-year-old Welsh section D Romeo with a gingerbread man theme, which she is linking in with a special fundraising coffee morning.

“Every year I do a creative feature clip — last year I did a Native American theme, the year before that it was a medieval one and before that it was a castle. This year, my close friend Robert Ainsley passed away from cancer on New Year’s Day, so cancer has had a huge impact on the direction of the design,” she explained.

“I usually come up with the theme in December but nothing felt right. Then when this happened, I decided I wanted to get behind Macmillan and give them some support. I spoke with them about ways to raise funds and they mentioned their coffee mornings. I didn’t want to do anything negative, so I started thinking about cupcakes and tea and then came up with the idea for a gingerbread horse.”

Melody, who travels extensively sharing her traditional and creative clipping skills, usually shares her designs on social media, and this is the first time she has tied a clip in with a fundraising event.

Her Gingerbread Horse Macmillan Coffee Morning is taking place at Lancashire competition centre Croft Top on Saturday, 10 March and includes a raffle with a range of horsey prizes.

“At the moment I am gathering prizes for it and the list is growing every day,” she said.

Donations so far include trailer hire from Barlow Trailers, rubber matting, a towing lesson, horse jewellery and a pony party gift voucher.

“People can buy tea and cake and also get the chance to see Romeo’s clip in person,” she said.

While Melody’s clips are inspired by some of the skills she learned during her degree in graphic design, her abilities were initially honed when she was nine years old and owned a Connemara who had to be clipped “all year round”.

“I started to clip my friends’ horses and friends of friends’ horses and then five years ago alongside my university degree I decided to set up as business and it’s gone from strength to strength,” she said.

Melody’s arty clips have caught the eye of media worldwide and after one of her designs was picked up in the US by CNN, she was approached by clipper manufacturer Andis to take her talents on tour.

Demand from her clients for quirkier clips is becoming more common, both at home and in America.

“It started off with a simple request for a star on horse’s behind a few years ago and a client put in on Facebook — everyone started asking for it,”she revealed. “Some love it and some hate it, and I am actually very traditional myself.

“These days though, demand it is growing from all walks of equestrianism and it’s more widely accepted. When I go out to America it’s catching on there.”

When last visiting the American midwest, Melody was asked to clip the Arabian Horse Society logo, as well as some creative stars with the help of some human barbers.

While logo designs can be at odds with affiliated rules, Melody has also successfully clipped a few unusual designs horses on the competitive circuit.

Continues below…

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Some people have an amazing talent in 'clip art'. Here's just a few that will make you look twice and

“I did clip one dressage horse to promote the ‘not on my yard’ anti-bullying campaign last year, but the rider Katie Amos did ask for British Dressage’s permission first,” she said. “It was the first horse to have competed at that level with a creative clip and it was for a good cause.

“When people can see there is a good reason for it, sometimes you can get away with being a bit of a rule-breaker!”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

After using this product, our reviewer is now a complete convert to battery powered clippers

The Aesculap Econom CL Battery powered clippers are for horse use and are a full size set, not trimmers.

When they first arrived I must admit I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of both the travel case they arrived in and the product itself. The carry case holds the clippers, two batteries, charger unit, cables, screwdriver, a small pot of oil and one set of clipper blades.

On unpacking however, I realised that the cables were wired for a two-pin plug system, not one we operate in the UK generally, however I was lucky I had a converter so I was able to get started straight away.

The initial set up was very easy, especially if you have had clippers before. The blades attach with two screws with a screw tightener on top of the unit to adjust the tension. The battery simply slides into place and is held securely by a metal clip.

Having done an awful lot of clipping in my life, I have always steered clear of battery clippers in general. Probably for fear of running out part way through and that a battery pack could be a little cumbersome. Not so with this set! They are light and easy to use and the extra bonus of having two batteries in this pack alleviated my concerns about running out part way through. In fact I managed to clip my 18hh horse completely, without rushing and only had to switch to the second battery towards the end of the clip. The battery life appears very good indeed. An added bonus is, pressing a button on the bottom of the battery tells you how much battery is left.

The charger unit for the batteries is exceptionally simple to use, very similar to something you would see for DIY drill. The clippers themselves are very lightweight and easily comparable to a standard mains powered set.

They provided a very good quality clip and this was reassuring as I wouldn’t normally be brave enough to go for a brand I had not previously heard of myself or from friend or colleagues. They run very quietly and don’t blow the hair in any awkward directions. As I am completely allergic to horsehair, it meant I didn’t suffer anywhere near as much as normal.

Verdict

I am a complete convert to battery clippers. There is no cable getting the way, with no fear of the horse treading on it accidently. You are free to easily, greatly speeding up the whole process. A definite winner for me.

Katie Price has told critics to “bind your beaks in” after receiving abuse for sharing pictures of hearts and diamonds harmlessly clipped into her daughter’s ponies’ coats.

The images riled animal rights charity PETA, who said the practice reduces “smart, sensitive animals to playthings”.

“An unskilled groomer could easily nick a horse with clippers, causing cuts or lesions,” a PETA spokesman told H&H.

“Clipping patterns into a horse’s hair is about human vanity and reduces smart, sensitive animals to playthings.

“If Ms Price wishes to shave hearts and diamonds into someone’s hair, we suggest she use her own head and leave animals out of it.”

The charity clarified that it does not object to clipping when it is done for the “benefit and comfort” of the animal and by a “skilled professional to avoid harm or injuries”.

A spokesman for Katie told H&H that she has had horses all her life and would never put any animal in danger.

He added that she has “full respect” for PETA and the work they do, but was naturally slightly disappointed by the organisation’s comments.

“Clipping is a very common practice, causing no harm or up set to the horse and is, in fact, carried out by many world class riders,” said the spokesman.

“Katie has over 50 different animals on her farm, all of who are cared for and loved by the whole family.”

Related articles:

• H&H forum: Katie Price
• How to clip a horse: watch Horse & Hound’s video masterclass
• Make your horse gleam with eight grooming kit essentials

The former glamour girl has shared a number of photos of arty clips on her Instagram and many social media users have come to her defence.

“See people will now see clipping a horse is very normal so bind your beaks in,” she wrote next to one of her posts.

Supporters have shared photos of their own equines’ stylish clips on Twitter and Instagram under the hashtag #clipforkatie.

Katie also shared a link to H&H article about learning how to “clip like a pro” with Mary King.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Dear Diary

I hate my life. I hate the fact that I am a big butch man, with killer moves, natural athletic ability, a jump that Milton would have envied and a lot of man love to give, but all of that — ALL of that — goes out of peoples mind as soon as I am clipped. Because as soon as I am clipped I so resemble a Greenpeace advert (think baby seal cub with big brown eyes) that all anyone does in my presence is go “aawwwwww” in that voice usually reserved for babies and puppies.

I am not cute, I am the Destroyer and seriously “aawwww” should not ever be a word used in my hearing. It’s degrading.

I blame Aunty Alison; if she wasn’t so good at whipping my hair off faster than a Las Vegas call girl removes her clothing then I wouldn’t be in this mess. She should tell mother that she refuses to remove my hair on ethical grounds and that I should be allowed to keep my admittedly-ginger-but-still-better-than-seal-pup-grey winter coat. I mean I could get cold!

• >>> Hovis’ Friday diary: Pondering a move to Barbados

Thank you to those of you of the Hovite Army who pointed this out on my facebook pages; ignore mothers comments about my level of “coverage” — I am a lean mean athletic machine. And talking of coverage if that held true mother would be permanently running about naked — there’s an image NO-ONE needed, I apologise and have ordered the brain bleach. The fact that I have more rugs than most women have pairs of shoes is utterly beside the point and in no way should dissuade you form the levels of concern you were all showing. You are all kind.

To the few members of the Hovite Army who suggested my feather removal — you are banned with immediate effect. How very dare you?! Removing my feathers would almost be as traumatic as the removal of my baby Hovis makers and is not something I want to contemplate. It was bad enough when Edward Scissor Hands Aka Herman the German Needle Man removed them last year for all the needles he shoved into my feet. I’ve only just recovered from that experience and that was only the loss of two squares inches. For those of you who don’t know how big that was, ask a man — he’ll show you…

• >>> Hovis’ Friday diary: ‘I made a mental note to wee in his feed bucket’

So the hair cut was prompted by me working at the weekend and being so wet with sweat it took nearly an hour to dry off. ‘Enough was enough’ announced mother after beasting me around the school for the aforementioned time. I was tempted to point out if she hadn’t worked me so hard I wouldn’t have been so sweaty, but since when has the truth stood in the way of mother having a good moan?

I did actually manage to behave myself and not cart mother into next week when a tractor started emptying the muck heap right next to the school. I wasn’t happy, I may have grown to an impressive 18HH of quivering man muscle, but I stood my ground. Mother was thrilled. I hoped my bravery would signal an early end to my stressage hell, but sadly it seemed to fuel mother into further action.

Apparently my trot when I’m in “ninja tractor killer mode” is so impressive she’s considering hiring tractors to stand running next to dressage arenas at competitions. I gave her my best evil eye and mentally decided to discover how many marks I’d get for chucking mother and going all Jean Claude Van What-hi-face on the tractor. The stressage report would be interesting: “Horse showed forwardness, suppleness and considerable impulsion whilst jettisoning the rider and putting both back feet through the tractor window”…

• >>> Hovis’ Friday diary: mother was ready to serve me up with a side of fries

I found this mentally amusing and spent the rest of the session from hell practising my moves in my head. All was well until I forget to tell my feet not to enact my thoughts and mum nearly ended up greeting the stressage school mirrors face first. Oopppss.

So I’m off to try to do something about my far-too-cute-for-a-manly-man haircut and practise my kung fu panda moves. HiiiiYA!

Laters

Hovis

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

This week’s new to the market round-up features yard essentials from Mr Black, M&M Timber, Aesculap Clippers, and Equimins

Mr Black’s new Garment Essentials range

The complete Mr Black’s Garment Essentials collection has arrived at Selfridges. The complete range includes refresh sprays and wash products crafted specifically for each garment and are the perfect prescription for your wardrobe this summer. Mr Black’s Garment Essentials offers a full range of formulations tailored to care for your entire wardrobe. Infused with natural, nourishing ingredients the range features dedicated Refresh sprays and Wash formulations specific to leather, cotton and linen, wool and cashmere, denim and more. Perfect for the fashion conscious, Mr Black’s unique formulas penetrate deep into the fabric weaves, to clean, refresh and prevent stains from setting.

RRP: £9.95 for the refresh sprays and £13.50 for the wash formulations.

Visit: www.selfridges.com

Agricised peeled and pointed fencing stakes from M&M Timber

M&M Timber launces the first Agricised peeled and pointed posts in the UK. The purpose designed incisor machines were developed and manufactured in the UK to the company’s own specific requirements and are said to be the most technologically advanced in the country. The process creates a metre long ground contact band of uniform incisions, enabling a minimum of 6mm pressurised preservative treatment penetration to meet Class 4 and BS8417 ground contact zone requirements. It also serves to ease surface tension and reduces cracking. The fencing comes with a 15 year guarentee. Anticipating a big demand for orders this year, the manufacturing process has been configured to double production output, guaranteeing early delivery direct from stock.

Visit: www.mmtimber.co.uk or call 01299 832611

Precision Adjustment Aid for Aesculap Favorita Blades launched by Torqui

Aesculap has launched a new precision adjustment tool for use with its highly acclaimed Favorita clipper cutter heads. The new small, handy, maintenance-free torque wrench optimises the perfect plate pressure resulting in consistent cutting edge retention on any type of coat. This not only increases the lifespan of the blade due to longer intervals between re-sharpening but also enables the groomer to adapt the plate pressure to operate effectively on all different coat types. Torqui is simple to use and does not require any training or instruction. It is applicable for all Favorita blades and can be upgraded with the corresponding knurled screw. The Torqui will allow the blades to be easily readjusted to operate on anything from the fine fur of thoroughbreds to cobs and working horses with thick, long furry coats even if the blades are losing their sharpness.

Visit: www.aesculap-clippers.com

Equimins launches a new Lavender Shampoo for summer

Equimins has added a new Lavender Shampoo to its grooming range; a rich shampoo that’s ideal for washing horses and ponies this summer. The purple shampoo is made with lavender essential oil and has been created to leave the horse’s coat clean, shiny and smelling fresh. As an additional benefit, lavender can be used to help repel biting insects. Lavender Shampoo is available in 500ml bottles.

RRP: £6.85

Visit: www.equimins.com or call 01548 531770

Want to impress the judge in the showring but not sure how, or wondering where you are going wrong? Showing supremo Katie Jerram shares her secrets for preparing horses to win time and time again.

1. Be systematic in your preparation for a show.

“When my horses are showing the next day they are bathed and groomed as soon as they are ridden, so that we do them as we go along rather than have masses to do at once,” says Katie. “It makes the workload more manageable and you are able to do a better job by splitting it into chunks.”

2. Keep on top of trimming and pulling manes and tails by doing it on a regular basis, rather than all in one go.

“We trim in the afternoons and we do everything — from whiskers and around the eyes, to ear hair, coronet bands and fetlocks —as needed so that we don’t have lots to do before a show.”

3. Don’t fight with a horse that dislikes being trimmed.

“I put them in the horsebox, so that they are contained in a stall. After two or three times the horse will stand in a stable to have it done without fuss. Then I know my staff are safe to do that job.”

4. Wipe oil on a horse’s coat to encourage moulting.

“It loosens the pores and double the amount of hair will fall out the next day,” explains Katie.

5. Use rugs, even in the stable.

“My horses have them on even when it’s sunny, so that their coats aren’t bleached.”

Continued below…

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6. Don’t ride in spurs at home.

“If you do, when the judge gets on without them the horse will be numb to their leg.”

7. A well-schooled horse will produce a better individual show. Katie sprays temporary black lines on the surface in her arena, such as a shallow 5m loop and a 20m circle.

“Then all you have to do is follow the line and think about your riding, rather than where you are going. This is a good tip for teaching children.”

8. Make sure you are fit enough to be effective in the saddle, especially if riding is not your day job.

“When you ride horses all day every day you develop a good level of fitness. I like Pilates for strengthening the core.”

9. Vary the workload by going hacking, doing fun rides and enjoying your horse, rather than riding in an arena all the time. Your horse will be happier if he enjoys his work.

10. Educate yourself. Katie has evented, hunted and trained point-to-pointers in the past, and this experience helps her produce so many horses so successfully.

Don’t miss Access All Areas with Katie Jerram in the current issue of Horse & Hound magazine (Thursday 7 May), on sale now

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

An experienced horsewoman died as the result of being kicked by a horse she was clipping, an inquest in Norfolk heard on Monday (9 March).

Mary Hancy, 55, was helping her daughter Kelly to clip a five-year-old warmblood on 11 January when the accident happened.

In a statement made by her daughter, which was read at King’s Lynn court, the horse’s temperament was described as “good, but young”.

She also said that the horse had been given the mild sedative sedalin approximately an hour before she started clipping.

Miss Hancy said: “As my mother was clipping the horse, it kicked out into her chest. And then she banged her head on a brick wall.”

The East of England Ambulance Service was called to the scene and Mrs Hancy was airlifted to Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge in a critical condition. She died later while undergoing surgery.

Mr Christopher Challand, a surgeon at Addenbrookes, said Mrs Hancy died from a lung injury caused by a blunt trauma.

Norfolk coroner Jacqueline Lake recorded a verdict of accidental death and offered her condolences to Mrs Hancy’s family.

At the time of her death Miss Hancy described by her mother as a “dedicated” horse woman.

“She was passionate about breeding Hanoverian and German warmbloods and had helped run a riding school and stud with her close friends Howard and Valerie Rose.

“She was always a familiar and friendly face at local showjumping competitions.”

The news of Mrs Hancy’s death provoked a huge response online with more than 100,000 people reading the story on the H&H website.

At the time the British Horse Society’s Jo Winfield reiterated the importance of taking all precautions possible when handling horses on the ground.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Horse & Hound brings you the latest products on the equestrian market. This round-up features Wolseley, Ariat and Bizzy Bites

Wolseley launches new clipper

Wolseley has launched a heavy duty machine for tougher clipping jobs.

The new lightweight Wolseley Kite is an ergonomically designed clipper with a powerful permanent magnet motor.

The Kite has reduced noise and low vibration and “is designed to meet the most challenging equine clipping requirements” said the company’s product development manager, Jane Trowbridge.

The clipper’s weigh 1.03kg, have a blade speed of 2500 double strokes and a slim handle to make clipping easier especially around difficult places.

The air-cooled motor and ventilated head help keep them cool during use. The washable filters are easily removed and there is an easy to use tensioning system.

The clippers can also be used to clip coarse coated or dirty cattle.

They come with a two-year warranty and will be available in early March.

For more information visit www.stockshop.co.uk

New boots from Ariat

The stylish new Monaco Tall Stretch Zip boots from Ariat have a high Spanish cut to flatter the leg.

The boots are made from French baby calf leather to give a soft luxurious feel and have an inner panel made from oiled leather for grip.

The technology used in the boots means riders do not have to spend hours “breaking them in,” said a spokesman from Ariat. The air cell mesh lining on the boot’s shaft allows moisture to evaporate easily.

The boots are designed with an ultra contoured ankle to ensure a closer contact to the horse.

Other features include a simple square toe, black patent leather cuff detail, swagger tab and sterling silver log plaque at the top of the boot.

The boots use patented ATS technology for comfort and have a leather outsole with a Duratread foot overlay for stability.

They are available in ladies sizes 3-8.5 in black only, priced £589.99.

For more information visit www.ariat.com

New teething toy for young horses from Bizzy Bites

A new equine toy is being launched to stop young horses from getting bored.

Bizzy Bites has been created by horse owner and mother Nicola Ramirez.

She saw the parallels between young animals and children of teething age realising they all needed to bite on something to alleviate the symptoms of teething.

The “patent pending” product will be available in March.

The stable teething toy comes in pink or aqua colours and has wings to give equines a mouthing and biting surface.

The Bizzy Bite can be wall mounted on a bracket (bought separately) that enables the toy to spin round.

It can also be hung on a lead rope from an attachment on its top or just placed on the stable floor.

A molasses based edible lick devised by nutrionists is inserted into the middle of the toy.

The licks last for weeks and can also be bought separately.

The Bizzy Bites stable toy costs £35.

For more information visit www.bizzybites.co.uk

The issue of clipping foals caused controversy for the second year running at Solihull Foal Show (25 November).

It is clearly stated both in the rules — and on a sign prominently displayed in the collecting ring — that clipping of foals is not allowed.

In one Welsh foal class, all exhibitors bar one were asked to leave the ring following acomplaint, because their foals showed clear clip marks under their throats.

Honorary show secretary Barbara Ray said: “Many of these foals have been weaned and bought in to show.

“However, it is likely that they will be turned back out again once the shows have finished. We do not think that this is acceptable if these young and vulnerable animals have been clipped.”

One Welsh breeder and exhibitor said: “We have travelled over 100 miles to attend this show, only to be told that we can’t compete. It’s ridiculous because if we show our foals at Welsh shows we are at a disadvantage because our animals are not clipped. We won’t come here again.”

Ironically, an exhibit in another class appeared to have been fully clipped, but because no blade lines were visible, making it impossible to prove, the animal was allowed to compete.

Show organisers are adamant that the rule will not be amended for next year.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Animal clippers and shearers manufacturer Heiniger has added two new products to its range in time for winter.

The Saphir Style clippers can run continuously for an hour with a fully charged battery and so can be used without a power cord. It is designed for all-day, heavy-duty use.

The Saphir Cord – which comes with ten blades – does require a power cord but there is a transformer in the plug so the three metre cable is only carrying 7.2 volts.

“These clippers are aimed at serious grooms and competition lovers – they really are about that winning finish,” said Susan Goodfellow from Heiniger supplier Cox Agri.

“With both the products, high quality Swiss engineering and technology meets a fashionable finish to complement your tack box.”

The Saphir Style costs £240 and the Saphir Cord is £154.

For more information visit www.coxagri.com

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Find out more about clipping

Read all the latest showing news

Having decided against a career as a physiotherapist, Katy Marriott-Payne discovered she had the winning touch with mountain and moorland ponies.

Katy’s tip: How to clip a native pony

“IT’S very difficult to show natives in December and breed societies that frown on clipping should understand the welfare benefits,” maintains Katy.

“It has to be so much better than standing them under lights, with endless rugs on and dripping with sweat when they’re worked.

“By clipping, you can maintain their normal routine, including turning them out.

“I hate to see bald bodies and fluffy legs, though, so I ‘grade’ the clip down to their knees and hocks,” she adds.

“The exact timing of the clip is crucial and will depend on the pony, but generally it’s about four to six weeks before Olympia to get the right amount of regrowth.”

To read the full interview with Katy Marriott-Payne see the current issue of H&H 29 December 2011

Do you want to know more about clipping ?

Read all the latest showing news

An innovative yet simple product to increase safety and reduce rug repair bills has been introduced by FMBs Therapy Systems.

Safe-Gum is a rubber rug clip attachment that can be fixed onto chest, surcingle and fillet or leg strap rug clips.

The rubber attachment is designed to break if a horse gets tangled up when rolling or caught on something in the stable or field, avoiding damage to rug straps and clips.

Safe-Gum is supplied in packs of eight, including shapes to suit T-bar fasteners and hook or spring clip closures.

FMBs say there is nothing similar to their product on the equine market.

Safe-Gum will be distributed in the UK and Ireland through equestrian retailers and rug manufacturers. RRP £9.50 including VAT.

For more details on stocking or buying Safe-Gum, call FMBs Therapy Systems on 01628 472440 or 07885 539312 or visit www.safe-gum.co.uk.

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What are thought to be the oldest horse clippers in the UK have been found by manufacturers Lister as part of celebrations to mark their 100th birthday.

Lister launched a competition last year (news, 27 November 2008) offering a new pair of limited edition golden clippers (pictured right) to the owner of the oldest horse shearers in the country.

The competition was won by Wiltshire farmer Pippa Aakers, who found a pair of 1930s hand-powered 184 Lister clippers in an old shed on her farm.

Pippa’s clippers were the first designed exclusively for horses, following the invention of hand-powered sheep shears in 1909, also by Lister of Gloucestershire.

She said: “I knew the clippers were old but I didn’t realise just how old. It will be nice for them to be showcased and appreciated once again, as I’m sure in their day they would have been a valued piece of equipment.”

The 184 clipper, with its straight blades, as opposed to the curved sheep shearing combs, was made to give a smooth finish.

It would have been slower and more difficult to use than modern clippers due to the weight of the flexible drive hanging from the back. Remarkably the 184’s blades are interchangeable with the Lister A series which is used today.

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Clippers, shears and trimmers makers Lister have launched a search to find Britain’s oldest set of Lister horse clippers to celebrate their 100th birthday.

Based in Dursley, Gloucestershire, the company has been making clippers since 1909 and is marking the occasion by producing a limited edition golden clipper.

The company wants to give a set of the golden clippers to the owners of the UK’s two oldest sets of Lister clippers.

Alan Williams, managing director, told H&H: “We are very proud of being the only British manufacturer of horse clippers.

“Unfortunately we had a big fire 1983 and lost all of our old records and clippers, so we thought it would be interesting to see if anyone out there has examples of them.”

He said the first Lister clippers were powered by elbow grease, with one person turning a handle while the other clipped.

Send a picture of your old Lister clippers to 100years@lister-shearing.co.uk. The closing date for entries is 28 February 2009.

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Watch the second of H&H’s new clipping masterclass video series.

The video has expert advice from Mary King and her groom Jodie Summers as they clip Mary’s home-bred advanced event horse Kings Temptress. Topics covered include introducing the horse to clippers for the first time, clipping nervous horses, clipping difficult areas such as the

head and around the elbow, and care of clippers after use.

Also available is epsiode one: clipping basics and coming next week is episode three: expert clipping tips.

Clipping challenges

1. When clipping a nervous horse:

• Think about what clippers to use
• Cordless clippers are a good choice as there is no wire to scare the horse and the handler is free to move around as necessary
• Consider starting with some quieter, lightweight trimmers, but these will not be able to do a full clip

2. When clipping a horse that has never been clipped before:

• Spend some time getting the horse used to the clippers first
• Clip an older horse that is good to clip with the young horse nearby
• Run the clippers while grooming the young horse
• Introduce the clippers carefully. Let the horse see them while they are turned off
• Take the clippers away and turn them on. Watch the horse’s reaction
• If the horse is relaxed, bring the clippers to the horse and place them on the shoulder
• Once the horse has accepted the sound and vibration you can start clipping but be aware of the horse’s body language and only do as much as the horse is comfortable with

3. Some horses simply do not enjoy being clipped. If you have tried desensitizing your horse and he is still difficult, you have a few options:

• Rug the horse up early to try to prevent a thick coat from growing, so you do not need to clip
• If there is a particular area that the horse doesn’t like having clipped, such as the head, choose a clip that avoids that area
• Some horses will settle if a second person stands with them and keeps their attention with some feed
• If the horse is ticklish around the belly for example, having a second person hold up a front leg may be sufficient to get the area clipped
• Finally if the horse has to be clipped and is a danger to itself and you during the process, speak to your vet about having the horse sedated

4. Expert tips from Mary King on how to clip the horse’s head:

• Always make sure the blades are cool before clipping the head
• Mary prefers to use large clippers for most areas of the head, and trimmers for the ears and nose
• Go gently and be very careful around the bony areas of the face
• Place your hand over the eye when clipping close to it to protect it and help the horse to settle
• If the horse is quiet it is easier to clip the head if the headcollar is round the neck, rather than on the head
• Be careful when clipping around the forelock. You don’t want to slip and chop a section of the forelock off by mistake!
• Move the loose skin on the face around with your free hand so you can get the clippers into all the nooks and cranies

5. When clipping around the elbows where there is a lot of loose skin, get a helper to lift the leg and pull it forward to straighten out the wrinkles. By stretching the skin tight you will be less likely to cut the horse with the clippers by mistake.

6. When clipping around the hind quarters and back legs be very cautious as it is easy to get kicked. Keep an eye on the horse’s reactions and if he appears unsettled ask your helper to hold up a front leg to help him stand still. But bear in mind that most horses can stand briefly on two legs, especially if one of the legs is being supported by a human being! Do not put yourself at risk.

7. When the clip is complete wipe the horse down with a warm, damp sponge to remove any loose hair, then rug up appropriately.

8. Caring for your clippers:

• Brush off all the loose hairs
• Remove the tension set and the blades
• Clean the blades with a brush and/or rag and put them away. Do not put them back on the handset while in storage
• Clean the handset and pack away carefully
• Store your clippers in a cool, dry place
• Send your clippers and blades away at the end of the clipping season to be serviced and sharpened ready for the following year

A clipper manufacturer is warning readers not to buy clippers from Ebay and other similar internet sites because of safety fears.

Alun Williams, managing director of Lister Shearing Equipment Ltd, contacted H&H in concern after a consignment of stolen clippers produced for America have started to find their way onto internet auction sites.

The clippers are manufactured with American plugs and motors designed to run on a lower voltage (110-120V) than the UK (240V), and are dangerous if used in Britain. Three individuals have recently approached the company reporting problems.

“In January, we had a consignment of nearly 300 clippers that were destined for the States stolen. They were going to our parent company, Wahl, so bear the name Wahl and Lister,” said Mr Williams. “Because they are for the US, they have a different motor that runs on a lower voltage and were fitted with US plugs.”

A member of Lister Shearing Equipment staff spotted the clippers — worth £287 new — selling on Ebay at a starting bid of £150. A distributor for the firm also contacted head office, saying he had a customer asking if they could change the plug on the clippers.

“Some are being sold with simply a travel adaptor, others have been fitted with UK plugs,” said Mr Williams. “But while these let you plug into a UK socket it doesn’t do anything about the voltage. I have not tried it but I would expect the motor will go bang because it cannot take the high voltage.

“It could be a loud bang, it could be an explosion or it could simply overheat and melt, depending on the amount of charge. All could scare the horse, the person and be extremely dangerous.”

Mr Williams advises readers not to be tempted to buy clippers at a reduced price from the internet, and if they have done so already, not to use them.

“All our clippers have moulded on plugs so you can’t unscrew them and replace a US plug with a UK one,” said Mr Williams. “So if your ‘new’ clippers have a replaced plug it is likely to be one of these.”

The clippers are beige, and come in a presentation case, bearing the name of Wahl, Star and Lister.

If you have any concerns, e-mail info@lister-shearing.com or (tel: 01453 544832).

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Q: A friend, who has put her horse out on loan, has given me her three-year-old clippers. I want to look after them, but don’t know how often I should have them serviced, how much it is likely to cost or how to choose a service agent.

A: In general, horse clippers should be serviced once a year, although, if they are frequently subjected to heavy use, they may need to be

looked at more often. In addition, you should always inspect the clippers before using them to ensure that the casing and power cable are not damaged.

A thorough service is likely to include an electrical test to check for any leakage of power through the clipper casing, stripping down and cleaning of the machine and sharpening of the blades. The best sharpening results are achieved if the repairer “precision laps” the blades, to obtain a highly accurate hollow grind. The machine should be tested once it has been reassembled.

Many servicing companies offer a postal service, allowing you to send the clippers to them with a turnaround of between two and five days. Aim to send them off towards the end of the summer, so they are ready for use in the autumn, when your horse’s winter coat starts getting thicker. Due to extra demand between

October and December, some repairers state that a service may take seven to 10 days.

To find a good clipper service agent, opt for a company recommended by a friend or contact BETA for a list of its retail members in your area. Ensure any company you are considering using will contact you in advance if any expensive work or replacement part is required, and that they will guarantee to redo the work if the clippers do not cut properly afterwards.

An average price for a service, without any replacement parts, is £25-£30. You may also have to pay up to £10 for postage.

• BETA (tel: 01937 587062) www.beta-uk.orgThis Q&A was first published in Horse & Hound (8 February, ’07). Please send your equine related questions to HHadvice@ipcmedia.com

Basic horse clipping techniques are well documented, but getting the perfect look isn’t so easy. The secret, says professional clipper Sharon Wareham, is knowing where to draw the line.

“Use a piece of dampened chalk to draw guidelines,” she says. “Don’t use saddle soap, which I’ve seen suggested — it clogs up the blades and leads to overheating and pulled hairs.

“The easiest way to line up a blanket clip over the withers is to use a piece of string and draw inside it; on anything other than ponies, you’ll need to stand on a mounting block so that you’re looking down.

“If you want a full saddle patch, put the saddle on without a numnah and draw around it. Using a numnah as a template will mislead because it lies flat.

“I prefer a ‘lozenge patch’. Draw round the saddle seat but clip across to the front D-rings and take off the hair under the flaps. It looks neater and leaves hair where it’s needed.”

If your problem is unwanted lines on clipped areas, even when using sharp blades, try livery yard manager Steff Beading’s tip.

“Rug up the horse for half an hour before you start, so he’s warm but won’t sweat,” she advises. “Only uncover the area you’re working on. The hair lies flat, avoiding the risk of lines.”

Another easy mistake to make is clipping into the mane hairs.

“Use one hand to hold down the mane on the opposite side, and hold the blades at a slight downward angle,” says Steff.

Rob Murray, a groom in a point-to-point yard, says that stretching the skin, especially round the withers and elbows, means no nicks or left-behind tufts. This helps get a clean-cut finish when fully clipping out a horse’s head.

Don’t always leave the head until last, as horses may have become fed up with the whole business. Sharon Wareham says: “Do an easy bit, such as the shoulder, to start with so the horse is relaxed, then do the head.”

There are many techniques for horses who are nervous of being clipped, but desensitising often works well. Sharon suggests owners accustom their horses to the noise and vibration by holding a pair of small battery-operated dog clippers against the horse, then running them over the body.

Alternatively, try the comfort of company. When show producer Katie Moore prepares to clip an anxious horse, she ties him up in the barn next to an old stager so that he can experience the process without being put under pressure. If he can see the other horse staying relaxed, this will boost his confidence.

Read more about expert advice on clipping horses

This feature was first published in Horse & Hound (21 October ’04)

Q: I own a cob that I have shown recently in a cob class, in which he finished fourth. He is a heavyweight cob and when I hog his mane, I always manage to leave clipping lines. I also have difficulty in getting the clippers into his fetlocks to trim them, as the coat is so thick. Can you offer me any helpful advice?

Leading show producer Lynn Russell replies: . When hogging your cob, I suggest you put some feed on the floor to encourage him to lower his head, which will stretch his neck and allow you a clean sweep down his mane. That way you won’t leave any clipping lines.

To do his legs, you will probably need to invest in some new clippers. The best ones to buy are powerful, smaller ones. I would recommend the Oster Power Pro cordless clipper from Brookwick Ward which I use on all my cobs. Contact Brookwick Ward (tel: 01592 630052) or visit the website: www.brookwickward.com.

Q: I am planning to compete my horse in show hunter classes this season. Unfortunately he has a very thick, unruly mane that lies on both sides of his neck. How can I tame his mane in order to be able to plait it into the small, neat plaits I see in the showring?

Liz Clemence replies: Pulling your horse’s mane will thin it, thereby making it more controllable and easier to plait.

Pull the mane on a warm day or after exercise when the pores are open. Begin by pulling the hair from underneath until you achieve a suitable length for plaiting.

Try to keep the mane to an even length and thickness – any particularly thin or weak areas of mane can be levelled using scissors rather than thinning them further by pulling.

Finish by trimming the part of the mane which disappears under the saddle, and about 1 to 1«ins of mane from the poll region to allow the headpiece to lie neatly in place. Do not trim any more mane than necessary.

Ideally, your horse’s mane should lie evenly on the off-side of his neck. Dividing his mane into equal parts and securing the hair into long plaits or bunches once you have pulled it will encourage it to lie on the correct side.