After a busy first half of the season, it’s likely your grooming kit or stripping basket are in need of a refresh – this could be true whether your next stop is an area show or you’re prepping for a week at the Royal International.

From emergency saviours to cheap hacks, we asked some top producers what they can’t live without on show days.

Show kit essentials

Hannah Horton: “I wouldn’t contemplate going showing without good old baby wipes – they can be used for anything. We also make sure we have drinks for humans in the stripping basket.”

Emma Burrows: “For me, I need a good mane and tail detangler, coat gloss and a bit of baby oil gel [like this one] to smooth the hair.”

Danielle Heath: “We love Smart Grooming Super Shine; it’s fantastic on faces and gives a mega shine on bodies, too, especially in an evening performance.”

Joe Watson: “This olive oil sheen spray is brilliant on our natives’ manes and tails especially,” he says, “and we use it as a coat gloss and highlighter, too. It’s not very expensive, which is great as we go through tons of the stuff.”

Leon King: “It has to be this Got2b hair gel for plaiting. We always have Leovet’s Power Phaser fly spray and this Cowboy Magic shampoo as well as their Detangler and Shine on tails; it’s incredible – like nothing else I have tried.”

Sara Parrott: “If I had to choose one product that I couldn’t be without it would have to be Supreme Products’ Sparkle Spray for those last minute finishing touches, manes, coats and tails – and even hooves and rider’s boots at a push!”

Sue-Helen Shuttleworth: “On the lorry we always have a good shampoo to quickly wash and dry if horses need it after travelling or working in. Personally I use Equioils Super Soap, Equioils Whitening Wood Flour and towels.

“In the strip basket there’s always a good, clean damp sponge for wiping away saddle marks before the conformation phase, and a good mane and tail brush.

And there’s always full fat Coke and sweets to keep us going.”

Harrison Taylor: “We use glycerine mixed in water for a sponge over, then Arena Products’ Show Shine spray on top. I also use Arena Products’ Clear Highlighter, which contains SPF for eyes and muzzle, black make up, Brylcreem, hair spray and baby wipes.”

Edward Young: “We always have tea, sugar and milk on the lorry. We also have a portable shower to wash any plaiting gel out of the manes and condition them when we unplait; it must be more comfortable for them, and it stops the mane getting too brittle. In my stripping bucket I carry fly spray, Brylcreem as long as it’s not too hot and sunny, hoof-stain, a good brush and a cloth [like this one].”

Simon Reynolds: “Our basket is like Mary Poppins’ bag; we carry everything we could possibly need as there’s nothing worse than having to go back to the lorry if you have forgotten something. But essentials include wet wipes and plaiting bands, plus electrical tape [like this] can be a great save in an emergency. And I’m diabetic so we always have fizzy sweets, too.”

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Whether you’ve just bought your first horse or are training at the highest level, every horse owner needs a grooming kit –it’s an essential you can’t be without. For this reason, the best grooming kits for horses are also a great practical gift for a horse owner. Some complete grooming kits also come with a grooming bag, which will give you plenty of space to store other grooming supplies, such as the best coat sprays or hoof oils.

Grooming kits are usually pre-packed with core items like body brushes, mane combs, curry combs and a hoof pick. Some even feature a sweat scraper, sponge or plastic currycomb – everything you need to keep your horse clean and comfortable.

Best grooming kits for horses

• For unlimited access to the latest product news, buying guides and reviews, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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We’ve rounded up the best plaiting products, including sprays, gels, mousses and waxes, to help you avoid stray hairs and keep your horse’s plaits tidy.

A good plaiting spray will provide the perfect grip to make plaiting a horse’s mane easier without leaving the hair tacky or greasy. Most can be applied to wet or dry hair, and will add volume and shine as well as saving you valuable time.

Best plaiting sprays for horses

A time-saving formula that every horse owner needs, this formulation from Hy leaves a non-greasy finish, while giving extra grip for plaiting, making it an easier job. It can be used with either a damp or dry mane and combs out easily after use.

This easy-to-use mouse ensures a sleek finish that is formulated to hold firm and helps to keep the wisps and strays at bay for perfect show-stopping plaits every time.

What you need in a plaiting kit

Whether you prefer to plait using a needle and thread or use rubber bands for convenience, you need a lot more than that in your plaiting kit to make the process quick and easy.

We recommended the following, but if you’re just starting out you can also buy a complete plaiting kit (like this one) with everything you need:

• waxed plaiting thread
• large flat needles with large eyes
• a small sharp pair of scissors
• pack of strong rubber plaiting bands (like these, which are available in a range of colours)

Once you’ve added plaiting spray or gel, coat shine spray and mane and tail detangler to your grooming kit bag, you’re ready to head to the show.

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Grooming bags for horses can be incredibly handy – and you can use them at the yard, when travelling or in the show ring. The best grooming bags for horses will have a good design that offers plenty of space for all the grooming kit, brushes and spray bottles required for a really good groom.

We’ve selected these grooming bags due to their durability, storage and value to help you find the perfect bag to suit your needs and budget.

Best grooming bags for horses

Why it’s worth investing in a grooming bag

Whether you’re reaching for a mane and tail detangler or prepping for a class, a tidy grooming bag makes everything easier. Many riders keep two separate grooming kits: one grooming kit bag for daily yard use and another dedicated to competitions. This helps protect your best tools and keeps your everyday kit clean and clutter-free.

If you prefer a smart, coordinated look, some grooming bags are available in a wide range of colours and are designed to match with wider ranges.

Grooming kits for new owners

If you’re new to horse ownership and don’t yet have a grooming kit, check out our guide to the best grooming kits they are a brilliant place to start. These kits are usually pre-packed with core items like body brushes, mane combs, curry combs and a hoof pick – everything you need to keep your horse clean and comfortable.

As you develop your kit, you might want to add other grooming brushes and essentials, such as sponges, finishing sprays, plaiting equipment or hoof oil – helping you build a setup that suits your routine.

• For unlimited access to the latest product news, buying guides and reviews, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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The best detanglers to keep manes and tails knot-free and looking lustrous

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The best mane and tail detanglers for horses are an essential part of a grooming kit, especially if your horse is due to visit a show ring. They usually come in spray form, but there are serum products available, too.

Maintaining a knot-free mane and tail not only looks smart, but will help your horse’s hair stay healthy and in good condition, which will reduce breakage and leave fuller-looking locks.

Best mane & tail detanglers: H&H’s quick guide

Best overall detangler: Absorbine ShowSheen

Best detangler for shine: Cavalor Star Shine

Best detangler for long lasting results: Equine America Silky Tail

Best mane and tail detanglers for horses

What is a detangler?

Horse mane and tail detanglers are similar to a conditioner you might use on your own hair – they help to tease out the knots and leave the hair conditioned and feeling fuller.

They are available in spray or serum form and should be easy to apply and formulated to keep the mane and tail hair tangle free for as long as possible. Some detangling sprays can also be used as a coat shine spray – they should not attract dust or leave the hair greasy, but can be used to help to repel dirt.

Does detangling spray really work?

The key benefits of using a detangler spray for your horse are to reduce knots, ease the combing process, adding moisture and enhancing shine. By making your horse’s mane and tail softer and more flexible, it helps prevent knots and minimise hair breakage.

• For unlimited access to the latest product news, buying guides and reviews, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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The best stain removers and dry shampoos for horses will help you keep your horse sparkling clean and remove stable stains all year round – even when it’s too cold to bath with even the best horse shampoo! Stain removers work in a similar way to dry shampoo you might put in your own hair.

Dry shampoos and stain removers are really handy on show days for last-minute touch ups, too, especially when it’s too late to whip out one of the best whitening shampoos. Some of the best dry shampoos for horses are formulated to have the same effect as giving your horse a bath, while others are ideal for targeting small but stubborn stains – all you need to do is apply the product, work it in and wait for the stain to lift.

Best stain removers and dry shampoos for horses

How to keep a grey horse clean

The simple answer is to keep on top of stable stains. Regular spot washing with a stain remover will prevent them from getting too deep into your horse’s coat.

Look out for stain removers with whitening and brightening agents as they help to bring the whitest colour out of your horse’s coat to make whites even brighter.

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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.

I’m incredibly lucky that I get to test all sorts of horsey products as part of my job but, as a horse owner myself, I’m always looking for ways to save money while doing the best for my horse.

Everyone always asks me whether expensive always means better? And the answer is not always – it really depends on what you’re buying.

I have a StripHair Gentle Groomer, which I love, and recently spotted this unbranded Amazon dupe in the Black Friday sale for just £3.99. I was desperate to see how it compared to my StripHair tool as this is currently £37 at GS Equestrian, which is a massive difference in price. I also wanted to know whether it was worth buying before adding to my Black Friday equestrian deals round up.

I already owned a StripHair gentle groomer and really like it, but it’s undeniably expensive, so I was keen to see how the unbranded Amazon dupe stood up to the test.

The two products look very similar but you can tell the StripHair groomer is much more flexible once you get hold of them. Otherwise, the dupe is ever so slightly smaller in size but has all the same features.

Both tools have a bristle- and blade-free design. The smaller soft-cleaning diamond surface on the topside (that you can see in my first picture) is perfect for exfoliating the face and legs, while the large diamond surface (above) is great for removing mud, sweat and stains. It can also be used to provide your horse with a relaxing massage.

The edge of the tools can be used when your horse is molting and to scrape excess water after bathing. My horse really enjoys being groomed so the massage effect is a nice treat for her – and massage is known to increase circulation, which can be a good thing.

As I mentioned earlier, the StripHair is more flexible so it contours really easily to your horse’s body. The rubber material is infused with orange and olive oils to increase durability, performance and anti-microbial properties. But aside from this, the products are really similar. It’s up to you whether the difference of £30+ is worth it – if you’ve got the spare cash then I’d say go for it, but if you’re looking to save money then the Amazon dupe certainly does the job.

I tried using the Amazon dupe to clean a saddle pad, too, and you can easily see where I’ve cleaned in a matter of seconds without damaging the pad.

If you’re looking for a cheap but practical gift for a horse lover or have a yard Secret Santa to buy for this year, I don’t think this grooming tool will disappoint. Yes you can buy the StripHair original, but if it’s out of your budget then the Amazon dupe is an excellent alternative for just a fraction of the price.

If you like the sound of the StripHair Original, here are today’s best prices…

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We’ve spotted this great deal on a complete set of Supreme Products Perfection Brushes and a Pro Groom Ring Bag. Right now you can save 20% on the RRP if you purchase from Viovet, and this early Black Friday equestrian deal is the lowest price we can find anywhere.

If you’re looking for a Christmas gift for a horse lover, we think this deal is worth checking out – I would certainly be pleased if this was waiting under the tree for me, as would my horse.

Supreme Products are leaders in equine preparation products and are very popular with the showing community, so you won’t be disappointed with this set. You’ll find Supreme Products items in our guides to the best mane and tail detanglerss, best coat shine sprays and best whitening shampoos to name but a few.

The complete set of four brushes are worth £54.99 if you buy them without the handy bag, so you’re making a great saving as the bag alone normally costs £26.

The smart bag, which features in our guide to the best grooming bags, has multiple pockets and compartments for storing all your go-to products and brushes organised in one place.

With a bit of help from these perfection brushes, your horse will be looking spic and span in no time. The Supreme Products grooming set is ideal for use at competitions to create a show ring-ready shine, but would also make a great gift for someone who loves to pamper their horse at home.

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They say you should never judge a book by its cover, but it seems okay in the equestrian world to judge a horsey person by what you find in their tack box.

Chances are, if you’re friends with any fellow horse owners, you’re likely to have stumbled across each kind of kit box, from the modest to the lavish.

So what does your grooming kit say about you?

1. The hoarder

You don’t mind having a hoarder on your yard as if you’ve misplaced anything, you can rely on them to have something to see you along the way. However, you certainly want to avoid sharing a tack room or feed store with them. Their grooming box consists of more empty bottles than the local recycling bank and their saddle rack is piled high with overflowing numnahs, sweat rugs and manky leathers. She insists that she’s having a clear out next week, but as time goes on the mountain of stuff just keeps growing. She knows those 5ft stable rugs aren’t going to fit her 16.2hh Warmblood, but throwing them out seems so wasteful, so they are just put away until they come in useful in the distant future…

2. The minimalist

This individual has no time for fancy sprays, matching sets or unnecessary supplements. They are big advocates of less is more and in the case of a grooming box, this includes a brush, a curry comb, a hoof pick and perhaps a sponge. While fellow yard goers sometimes wonder if they’ve never been tempted by the offerings in the local tack shop, her horse certainly has no qualms over the lack of high brand products and the consequential ‘over-fussing’ that can come with the most-dedicated groomer.

3. The bargain hunter

This is a seriously savvy shopper, who can smell out a horse-scented discount from a mile away. Their grooming kit is littered with over-marked price stickers and their entire collection was either bought half price, from a local tack sale or out of a Facebook buy and sell group. They are the king or queen of bartering and they believe that second hand stuff isn’t used, but well-loved and therefore essential. But be warned, while you wish you had their knack for scouting out the cheapest imitation fly sprays or collecting feed balancer tokens, don’t bother asking if you can borrow anything as you will definitely be shot down. “Buy your own” is usually the answer.

4. The must-haver

This on-trend owner has all the new lotions and potions and the latest gadgets recommended by the top riders. They probably own three grooming kits; a box for at home essentials, a wicker basket for show day and another store with all emergency and pre-and post-competition stock. This person will have the latest coat shine sprays or anti-stain shampoos (no Fairy liquid here) before it’s even been released and they plan their competition season around which events have the best shopping.

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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 best coat shine sprays for horses are usually multi-purpose and come under a range of names, including coat shine, coat gloss, grooming spray or even hair polish. They’re great for everyday use to prevent the build-up of dust and dirt, but they’re are also an essential on show day to give you horse that extra shine and tactfully highlight their best features.

Some coat shine sprays for horses can also be used as a mane and tail detangler, while others are handy to use before clipping or to help prevent rug rub. Most coat shine for horses will also contain conditioning ingredients to promote strong, soft and healthy hair. If your horse is lacking lustre and shine, it’s worth considering whether he would benefit from a skin and coat supplement, too.

Best coat shine sprays for horses

Absorbine ShowSheen Hair Polish & Detangler

Sizes: 950ml

RRP: £18.69

This formula from Absorbine works as both a coat spray and detangler. It contains pro-vitamins to condition the skin and coat, plus silk proteins to strengthen the hair and give it a healthy shine. Applying it to the coat helps to repel dust, keep him clean for longer and help reduce static. The sprayer head that allows targeted application with vertical or horizontal spray patterns and sprays upside down for those hard-to-reach areas.

Carr & Day & Martin Dreamcoat

Sizes: 500ml, 1l, 2.5l

RRP: £12.50 for 500ml

This spray from Carr & Day & Martin provides what is described as the ultimate high-gloss finish. The unique non-slip formula highlights muscle definition and can be used on the saddle patch, leaving no grease or residue. It can also be sprayed onto manes and tails before plaiting for extra shine.

Supreme Products Coat Gloss

Sizes: 750ml, 1l, 5l

RRP: £15.05 for 750ml

This spray is formulated to achieve perfection on show coats. It’s light in texture so can be applied to either wet or dry coats and is incredibly shiny without being sticky, tacky, static or oily. It’s primarily used to lay the coat and seal the hairs, but it can also be used as an under-belly mud repellent and will hold quarter marks in place..

Cavalor Star Shine

Sizes: 500ml

RRP: £17.99 for 500ml

This long-lasting hair conditioner from Cavalor can be used to maintain a knot-free mane and tail, and give a brightening gleam to your horse’s coat.

Cowboy Magic Super Body Shine

Sizes: 16oz, 32oz, 1gal

RRP: £12.04 for 16oz

This concentrated formula by Cowboy Magic adds shine and repels dust. It’s ready to use, dries fast and reflects a full spectrum of light. It also contains aloe vera to strengthen and condition the hair and skin.

NAF Shine On

Sizes: 500ml

RRP: £12.99

Described as a grooming box musti-have, this fine-mist spray by NAF smells great and gives your horse that extra, last minute sparkle without getting your reins to slippery. It can also be used on manes and tails to give an overall finish.

Shapley’s Hi Gloss Finishing Spray

Sizes: 12oz

RRP: £18.99

This American-made light, fresh-smelling oil-based aerosol spray will keep your horses skin and hair supple and conditioned when used regularly. It can also be used to add definition to muscles and highlight features, adding shine and lustre in seconds. It accentuates all colours of horses and works as a leave-in conditioner. You can also spray it on horses’ shoulders to help prevent rug rubs.

Supreme Products Moisturise & Condition

Sizes: 500ml, 5l

RRP: £15.50 for 500ml

This spray by Supreme Products will help condition your horse’s coat, mane and tail, keeping it hydrated and healthy. It promotes a natural shine and leaves hair feeling soft. It can be used on manes that are regularly plaited, hooded, dry or liable to get damaged.

Lincoln Silky Shine Coat Enhancer Spray

Sizes: 400ml

RRP: £7.99

A “glossifying” spray that adds sparkle and shine to the coat – perfect for a variety of coats. You can spray it onto plaits and quarter marks for depth and definition. For bays and duns it enhances black points and for greys it illuminates the coat in all lights. Provides exceptional results indoors with artificial lighting, or natural sunlight.

Nettex Coat Shine

Sizes: 500ml

RRP: £11.10

This multi-purpose, long-lasting coat dressing from Nettex provides a high-shine finish. The non-oily formula seals and coats the hair, repelling dust and dirt and preventing staining. Regular use will help prevent stable and grass stains from becoming ingrained. It can also be used before clipping to reduce clipping lines on clean coats.

Science Supplements Coat Shine & Conditioner

Sizes: 750ml

RRP: £12.99

This spray from Science Supplements is an anti-static formula that also helps moisturises the skin, repel stains and provides a long-lasting sparkle. It makes the application of quarter markings easy and can also be applied to the chest and shoulders to help stop rugs and blankets from rubbing.

Leovet Silkcare Conditioner

Sizes: 550ml

RRP: £13.49

This conditioning spray from Leovet contains high quality silk proteins that give long-lasting support to the hair structure. It also helps to repel dust and dirt, and leaves a natural-looking shine.

Shires Ezi-Groom Shine Spray

Sizes: 400ml

RRP: £13.99

This all-over spray from Shires contains added protein serum to give a shiny and glossy look. It’s quick drying and also helps to remove stains.

Smart Grooming Coat Sheen

Sizes: 500ml, 1l, 5l

RRP: £13.95 for 500ml

The Smart Grooming spray enhances the natural shine of the coat and can also be used prior to clipping making it easier for blades to glide through and give a smooth finish. It doesn’t leave an artificial shine or residue that can come from oil-based products, and does not attract dirt or dust. It’s best applied with a fleece mitt and then buffed into the coat for a dry, shiny finish. Also available as a refill making it a cost-effective option.

Botanica 6-in-1 Spray

Sizes: 750ml

RRP: £17.89

This multipurpose spray helps to dentangle manes and tails, deters flies and insects, removes dust and dirt from the coat and helps to prevent stains. It conditions and shines, helps to reduce dandruff and flaky skin, and can be sprayed directly onto open wounds.

Farnam Vetrolin Shine

Sizes: 591ml, 946ml, 1.89l

RRP: £18 for 946ml

This coat polish enhances shine and protects the coat from dust, but also contains sunscreen to help protect coat bleaching. It can also be used to help remove stains by applying the night before a show and sponging it off in the morning.

In the US? View now at amazon.com or chewy.com

How do I make my horse’s coat shiny?

It’s first important to ensure your horse is healthy, well-maintained and has a complete diet. Ensuring your horse has a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients – including protein, vitamins, and minerals – will help maintain a glossy coat. Skin and coat supplements that include biotin and omega-3 fatty acids can promote coat health, while regular grooming sessions will help remove dirt, debris, and loose hair. Grooming also helps to distribute natural oils and stimulating the skin for a healthy shine.

Incorporate bathing with one of the best horse shampoos periodically to keep the coat clean and remove excess oil and dirt. However, be mindful of over-bathing to prevent stripping the coat of its natural oils. Conditioning the coat with one of the best coat shine sprays can further enhance its lustre, while balanced turnout, regular exercise and adequate hydration also contribute to overall coat health.

Can you use olive oil on a horse’s coat?

Yes, olive oil can be used on a horse’s coat to promote shine and condition the hair. It’s a natural option that can provide moisture to the hair and promote shine, particularly for horses with dry or dull coats.

However, olive oil must be used sparingly to avoid making the coat greasy or attracting dirt. Coat shine sprays, on the other hand, are formulated specifically for enhancing coat shine and may contain ingredients that coat the hair shaft to reflect light and create a glossy appearance. Sprays are convenient and may provide quick results without making the coat greasy when used as directed.

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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

Having the best grooming brushes for horses in your grooming kit will up your grooming game. Some horse owners prefer to buy one of the best complete grooming kits, while others opt for a ‘pick and mix’ method, selecting the best brushes for different parts of the body and different coats.

Not only will the best grooming brushes clean your horse to a high standard, but they will give a good finishing polish. The bristles on each type of grooming brush will vary — some sensitive horses prefer the softer, while some need a firmer groom – and the best bristle option will depend on your horse’s coat, too.

The best grooming brushes for horses should be comfy to hold and a good size for your hand – some will have handles, while others will have ergonomic grips. It should be well made, easy to clean and dry quickly after washing because if you can’t keep your brush clean, then it’s not going to be effective at cleaning your horse.

Best grooming brushes for horses

Equerry Luxury XLH Body Brush: Best grooming brush for quarter marks

RRP: £24 | H&H Review: 9/10, H&H Approved |

This brush has a very large surface area and an almost rectangular shape making grooming more efficient. It’s built on a lightweight compound leather board.

We tested this brush and thought it was a good old-fashioned brush — it cleaned the horse well and was really great for quarter marks. Read the full Equerry body brush review.

In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk

Magic Brush: Best grooming brush for versatility

RRP: £14.95 for set of three |

These versatile brushes can be used on all parts of your horse’s body, including his hooves. They are gentle on joints and bones and tough on dried mud, dirt and dried sweat. It gives as good massage and the top side is also an effective scraper for bathing. It is described as “virtually indestructible” and is machine washable.

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

Haas Schimmel Brush For Grey Horses: Best grooming brush for grey coats

RRP: £13.99 |

This brush is designed for white and grey horses. It’s made of strong and tightly packed coconut fibres that are ideal for removing stains on lighter coats and markings. It has a leather handle and is made in a slightly smaller size for female hands.

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

In the US? View now at amazon.com

Wahl Face Brush: Best grooming brush for the face

RRP: £6.99 |

This soft-bristled brush can be used to remove loose hair and dirt, and leave a glossy shine. It’s the ideal size and softness for delicate areas around the face.

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

Shires Ezi-Groom Grip Dandy Brush: Best brush for winter coats

Sizes: Small or large | RRP: From £4.50 |

The large dandy brush has a soft-hold grippy back and stiff synthetic bristles. It removes mud and sweat from winter coats without removing the essential oils. It’s available in a wide range of colours and in two sizes.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk, rideawaystore.com, naylors.com or gsequestrian.co.uk

In the US? View now at amazon.com

Shires Ezi-Groom Metal Sweat Scraper/Shedding Blade: Best for removing hair

RRP: £5.25 |

This sweat scraper/shedding blade isn’t a traditional brush, but it’s highly effective at removing excess water from the horse’s coat, as well as dried mud and the winter coat as your horse begins to moult.

In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk, naylors.com or gsequestrian.co.uk

LeMieux Heritage Dapple Body Brush

RRP: £24.95 | H&H Review: 8/10 |

This brush has natural horse hair bristles for enhancing the hair’s natural shine and preventing static. The natural grained wooden oval back is complete with a quality leather handle and solid metal badge.

We tested this brush and found it to be very soft, so was best used as a finishing brush or for clipped horses. Read the full LeMieux Heritage Dapple Body Brush review.

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

Hy Deluxe Horse Hair Wooden Body Brush

Sizes: Small or large | RRP: From £8.99 | H&H Review: 8/10 |

This lacquered oval body brush has horse hair bristles and leather strap. It’s available in two sizes.

We tested this brush and found it was better at giving a finishing polish than it was at general cleaning, but it was comfortable to hold. Read the full Hy Deluxe Body Brush review.

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

You might also like:

From a muddy field to the show ring: a complete guide on how to groom a horse

6 grooming bags to keep your kit tidy and organised

Coat shine sprays worth adding to your grooming kit before show day

8 grooming kits and brush sets to cover all bases

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

• Horse & Hound is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. Learn more

Grooming bags can be incredibly handy – and you can use them at the yard, when travelling or in the show ring. The best grooming bags for horses will have a good design that offers plenty of space for all your grooming brushes and spray bottles, such as mane and tail detangler.

Look for bags with additional pockets and internal compartments or dividers if you want help keeping things tidy and organised. External open pockets offer really easy access for larger items or the things you use most, while zipped pockets and compartments will help keep smaller items safe and secure.

Materials are important, too. The outer materials should be strong and be able to withstand being carried around the yard. Some bags have easy-clean linings, which are particularly useful as grooming bags are susceptible to getting grimy, dirty and hairy inside. Many grooming bags have waterproof and reinforced bases – and some even studs – to help prevent the bottom of the bag becoming damaged.

Some grooming bags are available in a wide range of colours and are designed to match with wider ranges. And some match with grooming brushes too, but these are usually sold separately. If you’re looking for a complete set of brushes with a bag, check out our guide to the best grooming kits.

Best grooming bags for horses

Hy Sport Active Grooming Bag

Colours: 13 options | RRP: £26.99 |

Available in a wide range of colours that coordinate with the Hy Sport Active collection, this sturdy bag has plenty of space and comes with six open pockets that are perfect to hold all your bottles and brushes. The inside has an easy-to-clean lining, a zip pocket with a name identifier and a space for your valuables. The base is reinforced and features studs to prevent damage. Also available as a complete kit with brushes (RRP £49.99).

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

In the US? View now at amazon.com

LeMieux Grooming Bag

Colours: Black, navy, bluebell or papaya | RRP: £34.95 |

Made from a strong waterproof nylon outer with a reinforced moulded base, this bag has numerous pockets and compartments, plus grab handles and an adjustable shoulder strap.

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

Supreme Products Pro Groom Ring Bag

Colours: Black/gold | RRP: £26 |

Described as ideal for the show ring, this classic black bag with elegant gold detailing has multiple pockets and compartments that offer plenty of storage space. It has an adjustable shoulder strap and grab handles for ease of carrying.

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

LeMieux Pro Kit Lite Grooming Bag

Colours: Marine, fig, sienna, navy, bluebell, sage, burgundy or papaya | RRP: £29.95 |

This lightweight grooming bag has numerous zip up compartments and a choice of a grab handle or adjustable shoulder strap. Matching brushes available.

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

Shires Aubrion Grooming Kit Bag

Colours: Charcoal/pink or Team | RRP: From £25.99 |

This bag has an inner compartment, eight outer pockets, grab handles, and a detachable, adjustable shoulder strap. It also has hard-wearing feet to prevent damage.

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

Hy Glitzy Grooming Bag

Colours: Navy, red or silver | RRP: £24.99 |

This glam grooming bag has six external pockets to store possessions and large inside compartment with an easy-clean lining to keep your brushes in. It has a detachable shoulder strap and grab handles for ease of carrying.

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

Roma Grooming Carry Bag

Colours: Blue, pink or purple | RRP: £17.25 |

This strong nylon bag has multiple pockets, an adjustable shoulder strap and carry handles.

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

In the US? View now at amazon.com

LeMieux Grooming Bag Pro

Colours: Black, navy, bluebell or papaya | RRP: £39.95 |

This grooming bag has multiple compartments inside to help keep things tidy, as well as a handy front zip pocket for easy access. It is made of a strong waterproof nylon outer, and has a reinforced moulded base, an ergonomic grab handle and padded adjustable shoulder strap.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk 

Masta Large Tote Bag

Colours: Pink, teal or brown | RRP: £29.95 |

This sturdy grooming bag has multiple open pockets on the outside as well as an outer zipped pocket, while the zipped lid fastening keeps all your belongings secure. The inside has an easy-clean lining and the bag is made with a sturdy base with studs to help prevent damage. It also has carry handles and a shoulder strap.

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

LeMieux Leather Grooming Bag

Colours: Black or brown | RRP: £59.95 |

This smart grooming bag is designed to match the rest of the LeMieux PU leather luggage collection. It has structured internal compartments to keep things tidy and organised, as well as a handy front zip pocket for easy access. It is made from a strong but soft PU leather with faux suede detailing and has a padded adjustable shoulder strap.

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

You might also like:

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

• Horse & Hound is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. Learn more

If you’re looking to create the best plaits at the show ground, you’ll be pleased to know we’ve rounded up the best plaiting sprays and gels to help you avoid stray hairs and keep your plaits tidy.

A good plaiting spray will provide the perfect grip to make plaiting easier without leaving the hair tacky or greasy. Most can be applied to wet or dry manes, will add volume and shine as well as saving you valuable time, too.

Once you’ve added plaiting spray or gel, coat shine spray and mane and tail detangler to your grooming kit bag, you’re ready to head to the show.

Best plaiting sprays for horses

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 is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. Learn more

Buying a complete grooming kit is a great place to start when you get a new horse, to give as a gift, for travelling, or just an easy way to put together a smart co-ordinated kit. Many of the best grooming kits for horses come in a bag or box so that you can keep all the items organised and together. If you’re intending to carry your new kit around with you, make sure the bag is sturdy, has a good handle and that there is additional space for extra items, such as coat spray or hoof oil.

Grooming kits vary in contents, but in the best grooming kits for horses you’d expect to see the majority of the following items: dandy brush, body brush, face brush, rubber currycomb, hoof pick and mane comb. You may also find a sweat scraper, hoof oil brush, sponge or plastic currycomb.

Best grooming kits for horses

Equeenex 8-piece Grooming Kit

Colours: Red/viridian green or red/cocoa brown | RRP: £44.99 |

This quick-dry, dirt-resistant grooming kit bag from Equeenex includes a body brush, dandy brush, face brush mane and tail brush, hoof pick, sweat scraper, curry comb and curry face brush. The items are made with comfort-grip handles to make grooming easier.

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

Rhinegold Soft Touch Grooming Kit Bag

Colours: Blue, grey or red | RRP: £27.50 |

This soft-touch kit from Rhinegold includes a colour co-ordinated flexible body brush, dandy brush, mane comb, hoof pick, mane and tail brush, and sweat scraper. The bag has six side compartments, elasticated drawstring closure, clipped lid, side handles and long over-arm strap.

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

Premier Equine Soft Touch Grooming Kit Set

Colours: Black/red, blue/peacock, orange/amber or wine/fuschia | RRP: £39 |

This nine-piece grooming set from Premier Equine comes in a range of fun colour combinations and includes a body brush, long-bristled dandy brush, large dandy brush, face brush, mane and tail brush, rubber curry comb, hoof pick, sweat scraper and bucket brush.

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

Fouganza Grooming Kit

Colours: Burgundy or teal | RRP: £12.99 |

This grooming kit is a great starter selection and even contains a hoof oil brush.

In the UK? View now at decathlon.co.uk

Hy Sport Active Complete Grooming Bag

Colours: Spearmint green, terracotta orange, regal blue, port royal, bubblegum pink, aegean green, rosette red or midnight navy | RRP: £49.99 |

This Hy grooming set includes a body brush, dandy brush, face brush, mane comb, mane and tail brush, sweat scraper and hoof pick. The sturdy bag has an easy-to-clean lining and six open pockets to store all your extra sprays.

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

Roma Ultimate 10-piece Grooming Kit

Colours: Blue, orange, pink, purple, teal or yellow | RRP: £25.25 |

This 10-piece grooming kit comes packed in a tough plastic storage box and includes a dandy brush, curry comb, hoof pick, sponge, rubber plaiting bands, body brush, hoof oil brush with cap and a sweat scraper.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or rideawaystore.com

Borstiq Everyday Care Kit

RRP: £60

These Borstiq brushes are designed for everyday grooming and massage. The natural bristles are sourced from plant fibre and animal hair to offer choice for all types of grooming and hair condition. All brushes are backed with beech wood and are hard wearing. The set includes a medium-soft body brush, medium banana mex fibre brush, massage brush, stubby hoof pick/brush, and mane and tail brush.

In the UK? View now at equus.co.uk 

You might also like:

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.

If there’s one thing that always disappears from your grooming kit, it’s one of the best hoof picks. For this reason, it’s not something you want to spend too much money on, while at the same time it needs to be comfortable to use and do a good job because picking your horse’s feet out is an important part of his daily care.

There are a few different types, but the main way to group them are those with brushes and those without. A brush is useful to clear away any last bits of dirt once you’ve removed the main debris but it’s not essential. Choosing one that’s a bright colour is also handy as it makes it easier to find and identify as yours.

Best hoof picks for all budgets

Bitz metal hoof pick

Colours: Black, pink, purple, blue or red

RRP: £1.50

If you’re looking for something cheap and cheerful, this one is for you.

View now at amazon.co.uk or viovet.co.uk

Wahl hoof pick

RRP: £4.49

This hoof pick has an soft, ergonomic handle for maximum user comfort. It removes dirt effortlessly thanks to its reinforced stainless steel hook.

View now at amazon.co.uk or viovet.co.uk

Red Gorilla hoof pick

Colours: Pink, blue, green, yellow, red or purple

RRP: £2.25

With a comfortable rubber grip, strong metal pick and stiff brush, this hoof pick is effective and has a hole for easy hanging.

View now at amazon.co.uk or viovet.co.uk

Shires Ezi-Groom hoof pick

Colours: Black, pink, blue, orange or green | RRP: £2.65 |

This Shires hoof pick has a soft grip handle for added comfort.

View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk or naylors.com

Lincoln folding hoof pick

RRP: £3.99

This metal hoof pick folds away neatly so is handy for keeping in your pocket when you go hacking.

View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

Hy Little Rider Little Unicorn hoof pick

RRP: £2.99

This cute hoof pick is ideal if you have a small pony-mad assistant.

View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or equus.co.uk

The Ultimate Hoofpick

Colours: Yellow, pink or blue

RRP: From £9.95

Described as “the Jackhammer” this hoof pick comes with a lifetime guarantee against bends and breakages. It’s available in adult (8in) and junior (6.5in) sizes.

View now at ebay.co.uk or amazon.co.uk

You might also like:

Put your best foot forward – and make it shine with one of these great hoof oils

Hoof cracks – when should horse owners be concerned?

No foot, no horse – hoof supplements to help maintain healthy hooves

8 grooming kits and brush sets to cover all bases

Back to basics: cleaning horses’ hooves — a complete how-to guide

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

Thatching, jute, kaolin and boiled linseed have almost gone out of our vocabulary, says Andrea Oakes, evoking memories of AGAs festooned in string girths with a cauldron bubbling for the horse’s dinner

Hay wisp

IT looked so easy in the Pony Club Manual of Horsemanship – simply make a long, tightly woven rope from hay, before fashioning it into two loops and twisting the loose end through these. If the resulting tangle looked anything like a hay wisp, you were ready to use it with vigorous strokes to massage the horse and produce a deep shine.

Sometimes called strapping or banging, this was once considered an essential part of grooming. Was it worth the effort?

“My mum taught me how to make a hay wisp and my grandfather taught her,” says former eventer Ginny Elliot. “We used to spend hours strapping the horses and we liked to think it made a difference.”

Eventing Olympian Mary King, who would instead use a folded cloth (then termed a stable rubber) to produce the satisfying “slaps” that stimulated muscled areas, adds: “It certainly gave me some muscles. When I worked for [international eventer] Sheila Willcox, she was a stickler for strapping. All the horses had to be strapped, 60 times on each side: 20 on the crest of the neck, 20 on the muscle above the elbows, 20 on the quarters.”

International dressage rider Richard Davison says: “Strapping was a relic of our upbringing, and until about 20 years ago we kept a hay wisp in every grooming kit. We now know a bit more about muscle development, however; I’m not sure it was particularly effective.”

Richard admits that as a youngster working in a racing yard, he found an easier alternative.

“We would just pretend, making the strapping noise in the stable as we groomed,” he reveals. “People would think, ‘He’s working hard next door!’”

Rubber riding boots

“THEY were the coldest thing in the world,” recalls dressage star Anna Ross of her “plastic fantastic” boots, the must-have accessory at the riding school where she worked. In their day, rubber riding boots were the only affordable, entry-level option in lieu of long leather boots. But they were a let-down in more ways than one.

“I had such long, skinny legs that mine were literally like wellies,” Anna says. “They came halfway up my calves and were twice as wide – my legs looked like golf clubs from the side.”

Enduring the inevitable chilblains and with toes frequently squashed underfoot by recalcitrant riding school ponies, Anna sought to make the most of what she had.

“I’d get the furniture polish out to shine them up, which then made them squeak like mad,” she says. “I couldn’t believe my luck when I got my first pair of leather boots.”

Anna was also forced to consider a cheaper alternative when body protectors first hit the market.

“Before I did my British Horse Society stage three, I was a bit skint,” she explains. “A friend and I needed body protectors and noticed that there was something incredibly similar in the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles range in the local toy shop. The profile was almost the same under a cross-country shirt – if we could just get away with it…”

Boiled linseed

FOND memories abound of a cosy fug in the kitchen, as linseed and barley simmered on the stove: “We always had linseed boiling on the AGA,” says international eventer William Fox-Pitt.

“We cooked it to a gloopy, gelatinous mass and the horses would each get a blob once a week. A hot bran mash given the night before a day off would clear their systems and reduce the risk of colic.

“Horses back then certainly had a diet high in natural oils,” he adds, explaining that oats, bran and chaff, with additional boiled barley and linseed, formed the mainstay of feeding. “When you see photos of Badminton winners from the 1960s and ’70s, the horses looked very good.”

Mary King adds: “We would boil barley so it split, as it was good for fattening a horse. However, I remember my mum tearing her hair out when I let the linseed boil over on the old Rayburn, making a sticky mess.”

Yorkshire boots

BEFORE the advent of the fetlock boot, a double-thickness square of thick felt fastened around the joint with a tape did the trick.

“Yorkshire boots were very good; we still use them, in fact, for horses that brush or move close behind,” says former eventer and National Hunt trainer Henrietta Knight. “They’re much cheaper and you can put them in the washing machine.”

In general, modern boot technology has been a bonus.

“Many of the older boots for travel and exercise had lots of narrow leather straps, which were often over-tightened so the boot wouldn’t slip,” explains Alison Bartle of the Yorkshire Riding Centre, wife to eventing coach Christopher and a former Horse & Hound Groom of the Year. “This created individual pressure points. It was common to get boot injuries.”

Richard Davison admits that the overlapping Velcro straps on modern back boots can leave him baffled.

“In my day, all the straps had to face backwards,” he says, adding that he has been known to re-thread the bottom straps on flash nosebands to point the correct way.

“Our grooms have often questioned this; I once found my old Pony Club Manual of Horsemanship and photographed the relevant page to say, ‘Look, there you go!’”

Jute stable rug

ALLEGEDLY woven from natural fibres that allowed the skin to breathe, the original jute rug was in reality a cumbersome, damp-smelling beast that soaked up stable stains.

Time was when rugging up entailed first fitting a cotton summer sheet before adding one, two or sometimes three blankets and then hefting the jute rug on top – anchoring it all in place with a thick, padded roller fastened over the obligatory chunk of sponge.

The pampered horse then started sporting a duvet underneath, instead of blankets, that could be folded to form the neck covers we know and love today.

“We would make a ‘polo neck’ by pulling the duvet up to the horse’s ears; a ‘turtle neck’ by turning it down halfway, if it was warmer, or a ‘V neck’ by folding up the corners of the duvet and doubling it back over the rug,” recalls Alison.

“There were no cross-surcingles,” adds William. “We often used a heavy anti-cast roller. You didn’t have to worry about the horse getting cast, but at the same time it was like making him wear a saddle and girth all night.”

“I remember when leg straps first appeared and we had to learn to undo them before removing the rug,” says Anna. “There were more than a few horses doing the can-can around the stable when the uninitiated failed to do that.”

String girth

NOW made of softer, broader synthetic fibre than the thin, pinching cord of yesteryear, the string girth is still on the market. Sensibly, modern versions tend to be in brown or black.

“It was a nightmare getting the stains out of the white ones,” explains Henrietta, who would hang string girths from a bridle hook to give them a good scrubbing.

“So many things needed whitening in those days, from saddle linings to white lead-reins and the white browbands used for young horses. It was all so labour-intensive.”

Ginny adds: “My mum would ride and lead to pick me up from kindergarten on my pony – I remember the string girth and felt saddle, and also the plaited reins that were as slippery as hell when wet.

“We certainly had our work cut out washing those string girths clean.”

Anti-sweat rug

THE old-school sweat rug was a staple of the active horse’s wardrobe. This equine equivalent of the string vest was designed to allow air to circulate under another rug. Another technique to dry off wet and muddy horses was known as “thatching” – stuffing straw underneath the horse’s rug.

“After hunting, we were never allowed to wash the horses; we had to thatch them,” recalls William. “We’d warm the horses and give them their tea, before we could go indoors to warm up and have our tea.

“Later, once the horses had dried under their layers of straw, we would meticulously pick off every piece of mud with our fingers,” he adds. “This was meant to be better than brushing. It was certainly time-consuming, but I was young in those days and wasn’t given any other option.”

Richard adds: “Those string vest-style sweat rugs always looked a bit tatty. They were, in fact, called anti-sweat rugs – I remember getting that as a trick question in a Pony Club quiz.”

Kaolin poultice

UNTIL Animalintex provided a mess-free solution, poulticing was a sticky task involving the likes of bran or Epsom salts to draw out inflammation or infection. Kaolin, also known as china clay, was popular in paste form as a hot or cold compress, and is still available today.

“We would spread kaolin on Gamgee, with a bit of lint over the top and with cling film between the layers, before putting it in the freezer,” says Henrietta. “It was great for relieving bruising of the joints and legs, as it never got too cold to place against the horse’s skin. This was Peter Scott Dunn’s [the then British eventing team vet] wonderful remedy.”

Which old-fashioned practices do you still stick to today? Write to H&H at hhletters@futurenet.com and please include your full name and address.

You can also read this feature in the 13 May issue of Horse & Hound magazine.

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Skin care for horse riders is a topic that probably splits equestrians down the middle – those that have a religious skincare routine and those for who this is non-existent.

Winter is hard for horse owners with mud, rain, wind, more mud. While you might wrap your horse up in lovely new rugs and have the snuggest winter riding clothes, chapped lips and dry skin will still strike and caring for our skin is an important part of daily self-care – you’d never let your horse go without, after all.

Aching muscles after hunting? Raw hands from scrubbing icy water buckets? H&H has rounded up some of our favourite skincare, hair and beauty products to help you through the winter. So if you’re looking for Christmas gifts, why not treat yourself to a few of these to add to your own grooming kit?

Skin care for horse riders

1. The Body Shop Vitamin E night cream 

You might be wrapped up to the nines, thick scarf, ear warmers under your hat — the works — but your face is still taking the brunt of that icy breeze as you canter up that hill. Mornings are always a rush if you are trying to balance horses, work, children, other animals etc, so the beauty of this is that you can slap it on at night. Job done.

This overnight daily moisturiser is made with hyaluronic acid and raspberry seed oil, and is suitable for all skin types.

£15 for 50ml

Buy at thebodyshop.co.uk

2. No7 Essential Moisture day cream

Need something for the daytime too? This won’t break the bank and is formulated for those who suffer from dry skin.

Enriched with soothing elderflower, this day cream is light, easily absorbed and fragrance free.

£9.50 for 50ml

Buy at boots.com

3. Vaseline Intensive Care: Healthy Hands and Stronger Nails lotion

Gloves for everything is a great idea in theory, but if you are tacking up and untacking all day long, not always practical (… although fingerless gloves are a godsend). However hard you try to keep your hands under mitts, cold weather and detergent are tough on skin and nails. Plus you get change from a fiver.

This lotion claims to have your nails ten times stronger in two weeks.

£4.39 for 200ml

Buy at amazon.co.uk

4. O’Keefe’s Working Hands cream

Described as “the leading product for people that work with their hands”. Yep, I think this definitely qualifies as skincare for equestrians.

This non-greasy and unscented formula replenishes the moisture levels in the skin, while also providing the skin with the protection it needs.

£6 for 80ml

Buy at amazon.co.uk

5. Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour lip balm

If you compare the price of this with a set of new shoes for your horse — it is a snip. Chapped lips are miserable and this SPF20 balm is great for soothing the sore and dry.

This balm combines the right combination of vitamins and minerals with broad-spectrum sun protection to deliver everything your lips need look radiant, healthy, and beautiful all day.

£20

Buy at amazon.co.uk

6. Barry M Lip Rehab lip mask

Perfect for keeping handy in a pocket, this lip mask is apparently ideal for use in cold weather – and we know all about that.

This lip mask contains avocado oil to help soothe and heal chapped lips, and hemp seed oil to treat dryness, while it is infused with vitamin E to protect and prevent UV damage.

£4.99

Buy at amazon.co.uk

7. Udderly Smooth moisturising cream

Bear with us… rumour has it that this udder cream alternative is the business for dry skin. If you don’t fancy an industrial-looking tub on your dressing table, Udderly Smooth has a range aimed at people (rather than cattle). We haven’t tried these yet, but they look great.

This water-based moisturiser is greaseless and stainless with a light, fresh fragrance. Originally developed for use on dairy cows, it is now an everyday multi-purpose beauty aid due to its rich moisturising ingredients and performance in softening dry, thirsty skin.

£8.89 for 340g

Buy at amazon.co.uk

Hair, body and beauty

8. Batiste dry shampoo

Sometimes there is just no time, as people with horses well know, to fit in a fresh blow dry after every ride. Pick out the hay from your own mane and a spritz of this is ideal for an emergency touch-up when going from ponies to parties.

The UK’s best-selling dry shampoo will leave your hair feeling clean and fresh. With a few quick bursts you can instantly transform your look anytime as it also adds volume, body and texture. Choose from seven scents.

£1.49 for 200ml

Buy at amazon.co.uk

9. Maybelline Falsies Lashlift waterproof mascara 

Mascara streaming down your cheeks on a day’s hunting is not ideal. For those who simply can’t go without a little tint on their lashes, try this…

This waterproof mascara delivers dramatic length and volume without flakes or clumps.

£9.99

Buy at boots.com

10. Westlab Epsom bathing salts

Epsom salts may be more at home in the feed room than the bathroom, but a nice hot bath with a handful thrown in is a treat for sore post-no-stirrup-work-out muscles.

Produced by the UK’s leading mineral bath salt experts, these salts have been used for hundreds of years and are ideal for muscle relaxation and sports recovery.

£4.99 for 1kg

Buy at boots.com

11. The Original Mane ’N Tail shampoo and conditioner set

Yes, it’s that shampoo you’ve seen someone using at the yard when they’ve been bathing their horse, but it’s now been discovered by Muggles on the high street.

Originally created to help promote fuller, stronger, flowing manes and tails on show horses, this is shampoo and conditioner you can share with your horse.

£12.98 for 255ml bottles

Buy at amazon.co.uk

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If you’re watching the pennies, then how about giving these fabulously useful products you’ve probably got lying around at home a new job at the stables?

1. Brush-and-dustpan

Grab one at the local pound shop – far cheaper and more effective than the posh equivalent from the equestrian shop.

2. Sponges

Again, get all the sponges you need for eye-cleaning, bum-wiping, tack-cleaning and so on from your local supermarket or pound shop.

3. Microfibre cloths

Great at adding shine to a show pony’s coat – you’ll find these in any supermarket.

Continued below…

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4. Sudocrem

Every mum’s medicine cabinet staple for nappy rash, equally good at soothing insect bites, sunburn and minor abrasions on horses.

5. Baby wipes

A million uses for these, from wiping off grass stains on your horse’s coat to giving your tack a quick once-over.

6. Plastic potties

Buy a few and use them as a cheap alternative to pole pods – they’re stackable too.

7. Disposable nappies

Ideal for bandaging leg or foot wounds and keeping the area sterile.

8. Bathroom organiser

Grab one of these from a hardware store and hang it in your tackroom to store your scissors, brushes, bridle parts, treats and other bits and pieces.

9. Head torch

If your yard doesn’t have electricity, or you regularly need to trek down to the field at night to bring in your horse, a head torch (available from camping stores) will lighten up your life.

10. Baking soda

Safe for horses to ingest, this is very useful for cleaning water buckets, and can also be applied to white socks (horses’ socks, not humans) to brighten them up, too.

11. Rubber gloves

‘Nuff said.

12. Baby powder

Dust some onto your horse’s socks for showing, for extra whiteness.

13. Skin So Soft

A rinse with a solution of half Avon’s Skin So Soft and half water will clean your horse’s coat, adding shine and also repel bugs and flies. And you can use it on own skin, too!

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Welcome to our group test of body brushes. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by event rider and BHSII Lisa Spence. Find out what she thought below

Official description

The Equerry Luxury XLH body brush is rectangle-shaped and leather-backed, filled with dense short fibres for a close-contact in-depth groom. The brush is finished with a wide leather handle, stamped with the royal warrant from The Queen.

View at ebay.co.uk

First impressions

This brush looked well-made, up to the job and really professional.

Overview of performance

This is a good old fashioned brush — it cleaned the horse well, was comfortable to hold, lasted well and was easy to keep clean. I can’t fault its performance.

Lisa’s likes and dislikes

It was really great for quarter marks. I would buy again and definitely recommend.

Verdict

*H&H APPROVED* A good old fashioned brush that’s particularly great for quarter marks.

Welcome to our group test of body brushes. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by event rider and BHSII Lisa Spence. Find out what she thought below

Official description

The Shires Ezi-Groom Contour goat hair body brush is plastic with a rubberised coating and contoured shape for comfort in the hand. It features super-soft goat hair bristles for raising a brilliant shine and a useful hanging loop on the brush. Available in three colours.

View at viovet.co.uk

First impressions

This brush looked good and the first thing I noticed was how lovely and soft it was.

Overview of performance

This brush was good for a finishing polish. It was very comfortable to hold and use — a nice size for small hands. It lasted well, was easy to clean and dried well.

Lisa’s likes and dislikes

I love how soft it is — it was ideal for heads and sensitive horses.

Verdict

Great all round but particularly if you have small hands or a sensitive horse.

Welcome to our group test of body brushes. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by event rider and BHSII Lisa Spence. Find out what she thought below

Official description

The Sprenger body brush is of superior quality — it features a mahogany back and leather straps. It is created from strong tail hair, so is durable and designed to last. This all-purpose body brush is comfortable to use and soft on the horse.

First impressions

This brush looked really smart and like it would do a good job.

Overview of performance

This brush is not only good quality, but it actually cleans the horse well, too. It was comfortable to hold and lasted particularly well. It was easy to clean and dried well.

Lisa’s likes and dislikes

This is a good hard-wearing body brush. If you look after your kit it’s a good investment, but often yard staff don’t appreciate its value, and it’s quite pricey.

Verdict

A good brush but only worth the money if you take good care of your kit.

Welcome to our group test of body brushes. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by event rider and BHSII Lisa Spence. Find out what she thought below

Official description

The LeMieux Heritage dapple body brush is a natural horse hair bristle, which is preferred by professional grooms for enhancing the hair’s natural shine and anti-static. The stylish two-tone effect bristle gives the perfect resistance for a deep and therapeutic clean. A natural-grained wooden oval back is complete with a quality leather handle and beautiful solid metal LeMieux badge.

View at amazon.co.uk

First impressions

This brush looked really smart and well made. I really liked the metal badge logo and thought it looked classy.

Overview of performance

This brush was very soft so I only really used it as a finishing brush. Being soft also made it good for clipped horses. It was comfortable to hold but I found that the handle was too big for me. It lasted well, was easy to clean and dried quickly.

Lisa’s likes and dislikes

Overall it was a very smart brush and nice for finishing. I would recommend this for a finishing polish for show horses.

Verdict

A very smart brush — good to use for a finishing polish for show horses.

Welcome to our group test of body brushes. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by event rider and BHSII Lisa Spence. Find out what she thought below

Official description

The HyShine Deluxe horse hair wooden body brush is a dark brown lacquered wood oval body brush with a mixture of black, white and brown horse hair and finished with a durable leather strap. It gently removes dust, leaving an impeccable shine. Also available in small size.

View at viovet.co.uk

First impressions

This brush was really nice looking and in general it appeared like it was well made and would be a good brush.

Overview of performance

This brush was better at giving a finishing polish than it was at general cleaning. It was comfortable to hold as the handle was quite loose. It lasted well, was fairly easy to clean and dried quickly after washing.

Lisa’s likes and dislikes

I liked how smart it looked. I would use again but I prefer brushes with a leather back over wood.

Verdict

This brush is smart and good value for money.

Welcome to our group test of body brushes. All of the boots in this group test have been put through their paces by event rider and BHSII Lisa Spence. Find out what she thought below

Official description

The KBF99 anti-bacterial body brush has been proven to kill over 99% of bacteria and fungal conditions, as well as some viruses, and so helps to maintain bio-security measures. Available in five colours.

View at ebay.co.uk

First impressions

I liked the idea of it being anti-bacterial, but I was sceptical that it would make a difference. I also loved the handle — it was comfy and fitted all hands.

Overview of performance

This brush is practical, good and cleans the horse the well. It was really comfortable to hold and use, as well as lasting well and being easy to keep clean. I can’t say I noticed any benefits of the anti-bacterial properties.

Lisa’s likes and dislikes

I think this product is functionally good, but quite expensive as I didn’t feel it would have much effect on bacteria.

Verdict

A good brush, but I’m not convinced by the anti-bacterial properties.

Every show team has a set of items which they swear by and routinely use throughout the season. Whether you’re trying to add some extra show ring sparkle while on a budget or you’re celebrating after a class win, there are some items in that show basket, which might not be so essential to the green observer.

If a non-horsey person was having a nose through your kit, what would they look twice at?

1. Baby oil ­

While most adults would either purchase this silky soft liquid for its intended use, moisturising baby skin, showing folk rely on this greasy bottle of goodness for giving the muzzle, eyes and general points of judge’s interest that all important extra gleam before the class. As with any oil-based product, it should be used with care to avoid any risk of burning the skin in the sunshine.

2. Plastic Prosecco glasses

At 9am, really? Yes, you’ve been up since four o’clock and your horse has just won so pass a celebratory tipple please. If you’re the lorry driver then you’ll have to do with some lemonade, but at least a glass makes it easier to pretend it’s something more exciting.

3. Mr Sheen

If you need to get a dull tail gleaming there are a wide range of shine-enhancing tail sprays on sale, designed specifically to do the job, but you may also find a can of furniture polish on hand for this purpose within some show baskets.

4. Ear plugs

Never have two small pieces of cotton been so essential and valuable to some horses’ success. While to the untrained eye they may appear to be nondescript pieces of matted tat ready for the rubbish bin, to the rider of the young, highly-strung riding horse who is about to launch herself into the evening performance, they are more precious than diamonds.

5. Hair spray/ VO5 Gel

For keeping the human bun and pony plaits neat and flyaway free.

6. Blue rinse

No, not for your grandmother’s perm, but instead for your skewbald or grey’s white tail. Who knows where or when he will choose to poo through his beautiful silvery tail hair.

7. Glitter spray

Don’t lie, somewhere at the bottom of your show bag will be a half empty bottle of silver, gold or even pink glitter spray you’ve been slightly over keen with prior to an evening performance. While you claim it’s ‘only for the kids’, we all know showing people of any age love the OTT feel a bit of glitter can bring to the party. While it’s all good fun, the major downside is that you will be picking sparkly bits off your show saddle for the next three seasons.

8. Leg bandages with sheep on

If you’re going to go to the effort of owning a pony with white legs, you might as well wrap them in something funky to keep them clean during the warm up.

Continued below…

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9. Oven gloves, tea towels or any other kitchen-based fabrics

A pair of oven gloves or a tea towel is great for a final rub over before the class. Ideal for wiping grease and lifting coats, or mopping up that unwanted bit slobber. Just remember to wash it before your other half picks it up to dry the dishes…

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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

Welcome to our independent group test of horse shampoos. All of the shampoos in this group test have been put through their paces by dressage rider Jamie Broom and his wife Georgi. Find out what they thought below.

Official description

Nettex Everyday Conditioning shampoo is ideal for daily use to leave a smooth, lustrous finish. A gentle, mild formulation, this shampoo is suitable for use on all coat types and colours and does not strip the coat of its natural protective oils. It conditions the coat to leave a healthy shine, and is ideal to use to clean and condition the coat and remove a build-up of scurf and debris. 

First impressions

It came in a 1l bottle with a handle on top and a screw on lid, which I’m not so keen on, but the bottle was very robust.

Overview of performance

This shampoo didn’t foam at all and it left the horses feeling very slippery, although they did look lovely and shiny. It was like someone had sprayed them with mane and tail spray. It felt like you hadn’t rinsed it out properly but we couldn’t have rinsed it out any more, so when they dried they look amazing but they felt very slippery.

Georgi’s likes and dislikes

Their coats were so soft but almost too soft. Thankfully the slipperiness didn’t transfer onto reins or tack. We got through a lot of it because it doesn’t really foam up much so you can’t see where you’ve put it. The coats looked beautiful but the tails looked lank so I wouldn’t recommend using it on tails.

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Verdict

If you want your horse to look really clean, I’d recommend it, but I wouldn’t recommend using on a show day because of the slippery feel it leaves behind. It wasn’t very good in their tails because it doesn’t foam and left them feeling a bit lank and heavy. It does get them really clean, though.

Welcome to our independent group test of horse shampoos. All of the shampoos in this group test have been put through their paces by dressage rider Jamie Broom and his wife Georgi. Find out what they thought below.

Official description

Cavalor Equi wash ensures good hygiene for your horse by nourishing the skin. It does not irritate as it doesn’t contain acid or soap, and is pH neutral. It is perfectly suitable for all your horse riding equipment.

First impressions

It comes in a click-lid bottle for ease of use, and it smelt quite strongly.

Overview of performance

It smelt quite medicated so I felt it was better as a skin wash, such as on sweaty patches under the horse’s saddle or girth area where the skin can be sensitive. I used it on a sensitive skinned horse and although it didn’t really soothe or relieve any itchiness, it didn’t irritate his sensitive skin. It’s not powerful enough to get the horse really clean, so it’s more of a wash than a deep-cleaning shampoo. My horse get sweat lumps but it didn’t make any difference to those.

Georgi’s likes and dislikes

This shampoo didn’t foam up at all, which I didn’t like because you never know where you have put the shampoo or whether you have washed the shampoo out.

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Verdict

It’s certainly got a purpose, but in my opinion that’s not as a wash and not a shampoo. I’d recommend this for use after exercise when the horse is really sweaty or when you need to clean delicate skin.

Welcome to our independent group test of horse shampoos. All of the shampoos in this group test have been put through their paces by dressage rider Jamie Broom and his wife Georgi. Find out what they thought below.

Official description

The Equimins Lavender shampoo is a rich shampoo with natural essential oils of lavender, that leaves your horse smelling like a breath of spring and with a super shiny coat. Lavender can also assist in repelling annoying biting insects.

View at amazon.co.uk

First impressions

I instantly disliked the screw-on lid as it makes it fiddly when you have soapy, wet hands and you’re trying to put a lid back on the bottle. But the actual bottle was sturdy and didn’t crack when dropped.

Overview of performance

It definitely smelt like lavender but I wasn’t convinced it soothed skin as it said on the bottle.

Georgi’s likes and dislikes

It performed like a standard shampoo — it didn’t remove any stable stains and it didn’t foam very much. We used it on both dark and grey horses and it didn’t remove stable stains from the grey horse. For everyday use such as getting the sweat off your horse after exercise, it was OK. I like to feel as though I’ve got my horse clean after he’s had a bath, and I don’t feel like this shampoo achieved that. It’s OK as an everyday, general shampoo, but for a deeper clean that removes stable stains, I would use something else.

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Verdict

It’s OK for general everyday bathing, but I wouldn’t use it as a show prep shampoo because it didn’t remove any stains.

Welcome to our independent group test of waterless shampoos and stain removers for horses. All of the stain removers in this group test have been put through their paces by event rider and BHSII Lisa Spence. Find out what she thought below.

Official description

Mastacare Show White Powder helps to banish stains! Show White Powder leaves a brilliantly white finish to your horse’s coat. It is a safe and non-allergic whitener that can be used on the body, legs and feather helping to cover any stains or discolouration.

First impressions

The pot this came in looked really easy to store and the powder inside looked like it would do the job.

Overview of performance

This powder was excellent in getting rid of bad stable stains quickly and efficiently. I also found it very easy to use and it really made my horses very white.

Likes and dislikes

I liked how well it took out any stains and left me with a well turned-out horse. I also liked how easy it is to apply. And it’s not expensive either.

Verdict

*Best in Test & Best Value* A great solution to all those stains that every grey horse owner dreads.

Welcome to our independent group test of waterless shampoos and stain removers for horses. All of the stain removers in this group test have been put through their paces by event rider and BHSII Lisa Spence. Find out what she thought below.

Official description

Stubborn stable stains mean nothing to NAF Muck Off’s powerful formula. Simply apply a little mousse to a sponge and massage well into the stain. Leave for five minutes before lifting the muck off with a damp sponge or cloth leaving your horse or pony spotless. So even for those stains that seem impossible, it’s definitely worth a try.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, rideawaystore.com, equus.co.uk or naylors.com

First impressions

A smart bottle that looked like it would do the job.

Overview of performance

Worked well as a shampoo-type product, but not so much as a quick stain remover.

Likes and/or dislikes

I like that it was easy to use, as the spray was good to put on. I disliked the ‘wait 5 minutes’ as we don’t always have time to do that.

Verdict

This product did remove the stains well, but you need to give it time to work.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, rideawaystore.com, equus.co.uk or naylors.com

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Welcome to our independent group test of waterless shampoos and stain removers for horses. All of the stain removers in this group test have been put through their paces by event rider and BHSII Lisa Spence. Find out what she thought below.

Official description

Equimins Stain Remover is a spray-on clear lotion that helps to remove stable and grass stains with ease. Simply spray on, work into the stain and rinse off for best results.

View at amazon.co.uk

First impressions

This spray had a smart, stylish bottle that looked quite simple compared to the others.

Overview of performance

It sprays on well, and removed the stains with a good wash off.

Likes and/or dislikes

I did like this spray; it was easy to use and does what it says on the label.

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Verdict

This spray performed well helping to remove stains and is good value.

Welcome to our independent group test of waterless shampoos and stain removers for horses. All of the stain removers in this group test have been put through their paces by event rider and BHSII Lisa Spence. Find out what she thought below.

Official description

Nettex Stain Remover quickly and effectively removes deep seated grass and stable stains from your horse’s coat, making it the perfect choice for competition riders this season. Used regularly, Nettex Stain Remover will prevent the build-up of stains on the coat and it’s gentle on the skin, making it suitable for even the most sensitive of horses and ponies.

In the UK? View at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, rideawaystore.com or equus.co.uk

First impressions

Smart bottle that makes it easy to store. I liked that it came in a smaller version as well.

Overview of performance

I found this spray was more effective on grass stains than on stable stains, although it did work on both types.

Likes and/or dislikes

It like how quick and easy this spray is to use.

Verdict

I would recommend this spray, particularly if your horse lives out.

In the UK? View at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, rideawaystore.com or equus.co.uk

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Welcome to our independent group test of waterless shampoos and stain removers for horses. All of the stain removers in this group test have been put through their paces by event rider and BHSII Lisa Spence. Find out what she thought below.

Official description

The Carr & Day & Martin Stain Master Green Spot Remover is ideal for removing dirt and manure stains with no need to rinse. It is fantastic for last minute show touch ups as an ‘on the spot’ brightener for white markings. Stain Master can also be used as a dry shampoo when it’s too cold to bath.

First impressions

I thought it was a smart bottle that looked really professional.

Overview of performance

This spray cleans well on the specific area that needs cleaning. I did find that I need to spray quite a lot of it on the dirty area to get the best result, more than some of the others in the group test.

Like and/or dislikes

I liked how well it removes stains, but the spray needs more pressure when squeezing the trigger.

Verdict

This is an effective stain removing spray when applied liberally.

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Welcome to our independent group test of waterless shampoos and stain removers for horses. All of the stain removers in this group test have been put through their paces by event rider and BHSII Lisa Spence. Find out what she thought below.

Official description

Sprayed directly onto persistent stains like urine, manure or grass, Leovet Shiny White Stain Eraser Spray helps loosen stains for easy removal from the horses coat. Stains disappear as pure white re-emerges and the shine on the coat is brilliantly enhanced. A complex of natural proteins from the African moringa tree prevents the accumulation of new dirt particles and stains for up to two days. When used regularly, the coat will be full of volume and extensively protected from stains. This spray will restore hair and coat to a naturally radiant white without undesirable yellowish discolouration.

In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk

First impressions

The spray came out as a white liquid so I felt that it should do a good job.

Overview of performance

Although this spray made stains less visible quickly and easily, it did not completely remove them.

Likes and/or dislikes

I like that it is easy to apply, but I found it better on faint stains than darker or more ingrained ones.

Verdict

A useful quick fix on fresh stains.

In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk

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Giving your horse a good groom every day means you can keep them looking smart while keeping an eye out for any problems. Sara Walker explains what you’ll need to do the job…

Hoofpick

The Houdini of the grooming kit, the hoof pick has the ability to dematerialise at will and reappear somewhere unexpected. You can hang it on your stable door, you can nail it to the wall, you can Velcro it into your pocket – but it’s never there when you want it. An hour later, you’ll give up the search and immediately find it in your feed bucket.

Dandy brush

A brush with stiff bristles, carefully designed to remove mud from your horse’s coat and transfer it to you.

Curry combs

These come in metal, plastic and rubber varieties. Metal and plastic are for cleaning the hair out of brushes, while rubber is for removing quantities of winter coat. They’re called ‘curry combs’ because after you’ve been using one for half an hour you really fancy a takeaway.*

Mane and tail comb

Plastic or metal combs used for pulling and tidying manes and tails. As far as actual combing is concerned, they only really work on slender thoroughbred types with aristocratic manes. Try one on a cob’s mane and you’ll be looking for it for weeks.

Sponge

Used for cleaning around the eyes, nostrils and dock areas. It’s best to buy them in batches of 10, especially if you have any small terriers on the yard.

Body brush

Used for removing excess grease from stabled horses, and adding a nice shine to the coat. It’s called a ‘body brush’ because using one for 20 minutes a day gives you a figure like Elle MacPherson.**

Sweat scraper

This delightfully-named piece of equipment is used to remove excess moisture from the horse’s coat, for example after a bath. Sweat scrapers are also great escapologists and can give hoofpicks a run for their money in terms of never being where you left them.

* OK, this isn’t exactly (or even slightly) true – ‘currying’ is an old English word meaning grooming. We prefer our explanation though.

** This one’s definitely true.

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Welcome to our independent group test of horse shampoos. All of the shampoos in this group test have been put through their paces by dressage rider Jamie Broom and his wife Georgi. Find out what they thought below.

Official description: Carr & Day & Martin Gallop Extra Strength Shampoo

The Carr & Day & Martin Gallop Extra Strength Shampoo has an extra thick consistency that has double the amount of active ingredients for a deeper cleaning, perfect for really dirty, greasy or light coloured horses.

First impressions

This looked like a really smart, professional looking bottle and from the description seemed like it would do the job.

Overview of performance

This shampoo worked on every horse — it made the darker horses shine and cleaned my lighter-coloured horses. It also smelled really nice and I didn’t need to use very much to clean the whole horse.

Likes and dislikes

I like that it takes out the overnight stains from a grey horse, but also gives a shine to the darker horse. I also like how concentrated it is, meaning that you only need a small drop in water to give a good bath. If I had a dislike, it is that it doesn’t lather very well on the tail, but it does give a good shine.

Verdict

*BEST IN TEST & BEST VALUE* This shampoo is good value, long-lasting and can be used on every colour of horse.

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Welcome to our group test of mane and tail detanglers. All of the sprays in this group test have been thoroughly tested by busy yard owner and hunting enthusiast Harriet Rimmer. Find out what she thought below.

Official description: Cavalor Star Shine

Cavalor Star Shine is a long-lasting hair conditioner with a unique and pleasant aroma. It gives a brightening gleam to your horse’s coat and makes it appear as a real “star” on the show circuit. The horse’s tail and mane can be expected to remain tangle-free for a week after application.

First impressions

I liked the simplicity of the packaging and the bottle looks like a handy size to use post-wash as a coat shine and detangler. I was fairly surprised when I saw the price tag though.

Overview of performance

I was really impressed by this fantastic product. This is definitely best in this group test. It does exactly what it says on the bottle. It detangles, softens and has a long-lasting effect. The shine it adds to the horse’s coat is second to none. It is a superior product compared to anything I’ve ever used before. Very, very impressed.

Likes and dislikes

I don’t just like this product, I love everything about it and I cannot fault it. I wish I had more of it. It is more expensive than the others on test, but it’s worth every penny.

Verdict

A fantastic product that detangles, softens and has a long-lasting effect. Worth every penny.

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

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Welcome to our group test of mane and tail detanglers. All of the sprays in this group test have been thoroughly tested by busy yard owner and hunting enthusiast Harriet Rimmer. Find out what she thought below.

Official description

Equimins Detangler Ultra Silky Spray is a specialist product developed for detangling manes and tails. Simply spray onto the mane and tail and comb out. This lotion will leave a lasting sheen from one application. Shake before use. This product is non-greasy so will not attract any dust.

View at viovet.co.uk

First impressions

This product looked like it would definitely do the job of detangling manes and tails and providing a gloss to the horse’s coat.

Overview of performance

This product detangles manes and tails very effectively, without making them greasy or giving a matte appearance. It also repels dirt, which makes washing off much easier after a muddy day – an excellent time saver that we all appreciate! Tails are left untangled for a few days and you can wash off anything which has stained their tails without using shampoo, just rinsing with water. It leaves a lovely feel on the horse’s coat if you spray it all over.

Likes and dislikes

I really like how practical and useful this spray is. It is a good all-rounder and does exactly what it says on the bottle.

Verdict

I would definitely recommend this spray as it’s a very versatile, affordable and long-lasting.

Welcome to our group test of mane and tail detanglers. All of the sprays in this group test have been thoroughly tested by busy yard owner and hunting enthusiast Harriet Rimmer. Find out what she thought below.

Official description: Nettex Mane & Tail Detangler

Nettex Mane & Tail Detangler is a premium quality formulation that seals and coats the hair, preventing knots and reducing grooming time. It is very economical as a little goes a long way.

First impressions

The product looks like it will be of good quality with a handy bottle as well as being affordable and easy to use. I like the idea of not needing to use much as it’s very easy to overuse products unnecessarily.

Overview of performance

Very easy to apply and instantly starts working on detangling. You really don’t need to use much of this product – less is more – although if you do end up overdoing it by accident, it doesn’t leave a greasy feeling. It leaves a lovely feel and shine when used on the horse’s coat.

Likes and dislikes

I like the effectiveness of the product, affordability and the feel it leaves. A very useful all-round product, which offers good value for money. I would definitely recommend it to a friend.

Verdict

A very useful all-round product that offers good value for money.

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Welcome to our group test of mane and tail detanglers. All of the sprays in this group test have been thoroughly tested by busy yard owner and hunting enthusiast Harriet Rimmer. Find out what she thought below.

Official description: Leovet 5 Star Detangler

The Leovet 5 Star Detangler contains arginine – the essential hair nutrient – for better hair growth. This product provides sensational star shine, easy combing of mane and tail, and protection from dust and dirt for many days. It contains provitamin B5, panthenol, for healthy, nourished hair with lots of volume.

First impressions

The product looks very professional and I was quite intrigued to see how it would compete with the others on test.

Overview of performance

When I first sprayed this product onto a horse’s tail, I loved the smell but didn’t think it detangled very well. But once I left the horse’s tail to dry with the spray on, I couldn’t believe the difference. It does seem to add more of a condition to the hair, rather than a gloss, and I would advise that you left it on for a long as possible before brushing the hair through. This product doesn’t put as much of a gloss on their coats in comparison to the others on test, but it definitely detangles and nourishes the hair effectively.

Likes and dislikes

I really like that this product works as more of a conditioning treatment for the horses’ manes and tails, rather than just a temporary gloss or shine. You can tell the difference in this product from the others as it nourishes the hair and provides more of a long-term treatment, rather than just a “quick fix”. If you wanted to use it as an instant detangler, I would suggest that you left it on until the hair is dry (post washing) and then comb it through. It’s different to the other products in the group test, but once I had learned how to use it properly, it was actually very useful.

Verdict

More of a long term treatment, rather than a quick-fix spray and go.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, rideawaystore.com, naylors.com or equus.co.uk

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Welcome to our group test of mane and tail detanglers. All of the sprays in this group test have been thoroughly tested by busy yard owner and hunting enthusiast Harriet Rimmer. Find out what she thought below.

Official description: Smart Grooming Tame the Mane

Smart Grooming Tame the Mane is perfect for taming and conditioning thick natural manes and tails, leaving them easy to manage and tangle free as well as keeping the mud away in challenging conditions. Tame the Mane can also be sprayed onto thick feathers to keep them clean and easily managed. It dries quickly, detangles fast and doesn’t attract dust. It gives definition and holds manes in place, as well as enhancing the natural look of a full mane.

First impressions

I thought this product was aimed at traditional breeds with longer manes and tails than my horses typically have, but I do have one horse on the yard with a particularly coarse mane, so was very interested to see how it would work on him.

Overview of performance

This spray was effective, easy to use and left their tails very easy to brush and detangled for up to two to three days. I also noticed that their manes were left flatter and random hairs which usually sprout up while plaiting, were more manageable and stayed in the plait better!

Likes and dislikes

I do like this product, although it does seem to be aimed at a particular market, rather than as an all-round spray. It is very effective though, especially on the horses whose manes are slightly unruly! I can see it being very useful for horses with feather as it is long-lasting and could prevent the hair tangling up so easily in the mud and wet, although we didn’t have any suitable horses to test that on.

Verdict

A great choice if you have a horse whose mane is slightly unruly!

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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.

Welcome to our group test of mane and tail detanglers. All of the sprays in this group test have been thoroughly tested by busy yard owner and hunting enthusiast Harriet Rimmer. Find out what she thought below.

Official description: NAF Silky Mane & Tail D-Tangler

Care for your horse’s mane and tail with NAF Silky Mane & Tail D-Tangler deluxe conditioning spray for a smooth, shiny tangle-free finish. This spray leaves a non-greasy, non-sticky natural shine that will not attract dust and allows mud to be easily brushed from hair.

First impressions

I’ve used NAF products for several years so have good faith that this will be a useful and effective product. It looks like a versatile product to have on the yard. I liked the idea of it being a “deluxe” product, so was intrigued to see how it compared against the others in the group test.

Overview of performance

I was pleased with the performance of this spray. It definitely makes detangling manes and tails easier and leaves a silky feel. It has a very strong lavender smell, which I think would be very beneficial in the summer to help keep the flies at bay! I wouldn’t say it was a “deluxe” conditioning spray; more of a good, effective all-round product, which would be of benefit to any yard.

Likes and dislikes

I like the overall practicality and usefulness of this product. I did, however, find that it could make manes or tails greasy if you over did it on the spray. Less is more with this product, which also helps make the bottle last longer!

Verdict

A good all-round detangler spray that I would recommend.

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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.

Welcome to our group test of mane and tail detanglers. All of the sprays in this group test have been thoroughly tested by busy yard owner and hunting enthusiast Harriet Rimmer. Find out what she thought below.

Official description

Showmaster Tail and Mane Silk Deluxe provides luxurious shine and easy combing. Studies show that vegan silk polypeptides offer great protection against irritants and environmental influences, and that argan oil gives the perfect finish. Use sparingly. Thanks to the 360° spray nozzle, it produces a fine cloud that is distributed evenly.

First impressions

This product came in a different style bottle and with slightly complicated instructions. It looks like more of a specialist product to use, but I like the inclusion of argan oil as it may act as a treatment, as well as an instant gloss.

Overview of performance

Having got my head around the unusual bottle and spray method, I loved the instant detangling and silky feeling this product leaves. It is tricky to apply though as you have to keep pulling the trigger for application, you can’t just have a consistent spray. It certainly leaves a very well conditioned and high gloss finish and you can tell that it is more of a premium product, in comparison to some of the others on test. It’s a shame that the bottle lets it down as the product itself is excellent.

Likes and dislikes

I really like the silky, lightweight feeling it leaves in the horses manes and tails – it definitely does its job. But I dislike the spray nozzle as it dictates how long each spray is. When trying to spray into a long tail, you have to keep pulling the trigger on the spray, rather than having a consistent flow. Whether this is to dictate how little or much you should be using, I’m not sure, but I personally prefer being able to judge this myself.

Verdict

This liquid is excellent, but I don't like the spray bottle.

Welcome to our group test of mane and tail detanglers. All of the sprays in this group test have been thoroughly tested by busy yard owner and hunting enthusiast Harriet Rimmer. Find out what she thought below.

Official description: Mastacare Mane and Tail Spray

Mastacare Mane and Tail Spray adds shine and helps to detangle hair making grooming quick and easy; no longer a fight through knotted manes and tails. The product leaves a silky and well-conditioned feel helping to protect the hair from breakage. It is perfect for show preparation or general everyday use.

First impressions

Handy little bottle to use, especially for away shows as it’s neat and compact.

Overview of performance

The product does what it says on the bottle, but it didn’t really stand out to me among the others on test. It detangled tails and provided a gloss like appearance, but not as effectively some of the others we tried.

Likes and dislikes

I like the bottle size and the affordability of the product, which is a basic, all-round spray. Definitely worth considering if you’re on a budget as it’s a slightly cheaper alternative, but the saving is only marginal so it really comes down to whether you want to spend a bit more on a more effective product.

Verdict

Definitely worth considering if you’re on a budget and trying to save your pennies.

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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.

Carolyn Henderson investigates the innovative turnout tricks and products loved by riders and grooms across the disciplines

1. Freelance eventing groom Alex Van Tuyll, whose clients include William Fox-Pitt, counts flick brushes with long, soft bristles among her grooming kit must-haves.

“I have flick brushes in two colours — one for the mane and one for the tail,” she says. “This means that if I put detangler spray on the tail, I don’t transfer it to the mane and make it slippery.”

2. Showjumper Emma Hinkley swears by PRO:VOKE’s Touch Of Silver Brightening Shampoo, a purple shampoo formulated for people which she uses on her grade B showjumper, Heritage Silver, and that she buys from her local supermarket.

“Leave it in for five minutes,” she advises “It’s great for manes and tails.”

3. Riding school and livery yard owner Lorna Johnstone nominates hypoallergenic, biodegradable wet wipes as essential.

“They can be used for removing stains and for cleaning around small wounds,” says Lorna, who also uses individual wipes for cleaning noses, eyes and docks, as they don’t irritate and are easy to dispose of.

“They don’t smell strongly, are not scary to horses and don’t freeze or melt,” she adds.

4. Top model Amber Martinez, the face of Scottish Widows, knows more about hair care than most. She uses coconut oil on her own locks and shares it with her horses, too.

“It’s great for conditioning hair and encouraged new hair growth when the base of my mare’s tail was rubbed,” she said. “A little goes a long way.”

5. For dirty ponies, Highland enthusiast Rachael Stewart uses a car wash mitt, which costs £1 from her local supermarket. It has microfibre loops on one side and mesh on the other. The mesh side, says Rachael, is great for removing stains.

6. Dressage rider Emma Penny’s secret weapon is Smart Grooming’s Super Groomer, which is made from recycled polypropylene and moulds to the horse’s contours.

“It’s very basic, but great for removing dried mud — and when you’re bathing a horse,” she says.

Continued below…

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7. “We use a capful of Dettol in a quarter of a bucket of hot water, scrubbed on with a small towel,” says showjumping specialist Shirley Light, of Brendon Stud.

This technique removes grease and the horse also gets a massage.

Event rider and trainer Laura Powell also favours Dettol.

“I use Dettol to hot-cloth after exercise,” she says. “My horses love having their faces done.”

8. Tack cleaning is many riders’ least favourite job.

“If leather is really dirty, then use lukewarm water with a couple of drops of washing-up liquid — and I mean drops — to degrease and remove mud, then rinse in clean water [and allow to dry before applying saddle soap],” says retired international saddler and lecturer Malan Goddard.

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

What grooming items do leading showing experts swear by in order to make the horses in their care look their best in the ring? Renowned pony producer Katy Carter and Jo Jack, head groom to Katie Jerram, reveal eight essential items that give their charges the winning edge

Katy Carter and Jo Jack’s grooming kit essentials

1. Oven gloves

Ideal for lifting coats out and, because they are soft, horses will allow you to rub their whole bodies, including their legs, top of the head and around their ears. According to Katy, a clean pair of oven gloves is also useful for a final wipe over.

Buy now from Amazon.co.uk

2. Baby wipes

Perfect for wiping bits, bridles and faces — as well as oily hands before doing up the girth. Katy swears by them.

Buy now from Amazon.co.uk

3. Head torch

A must-have for early-morning or late-night plaiting. You might feel silly at first, admits Jo, but it makes a fiddly job far easier when the light is poor.

Buy now from Amazon.co.uk

4. Dog grooming comb

Brilliant for helping to remove loose hair, says Katy.

Buy now from Amazon.co.uk

5. Tea towels

Both experts agree that you can never have too many of these to hand. Use a tea towel damp to remove any dust before spraying the horse’s coat, or mane and tail.

Buy now from Amazon.co.uk

6. Trimmed dandy brushes

Jo says that with the bristles shortened, these are sturdy enough to accurately draw on quarter marks that will last as long as you need them

Buy now from Amazon.co.uk

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7. Half a pair of trimming scissors

Great for pulling tails in a quick, efficient way without upsetting the horse, says Jo.

Buy now from Amazon.co.uk

8. Good old fashioned elbow grease

OK, this isn’t technically in a grooming kit but, according to Jo, it is the only way to make a coat look its best, so get brushing.

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

It's all very well turning our horses out as much as we can, but when show day dawns, we can't help wishing we'd been a bit more insistent on the rug/stable front. But these owners prove that with a bit of elbow grease, transformations can happen... Happy grooming!

Beau

“Not much in the way of mud in any of my pictures, but my horse Beau goes from looking like any old common nag in the field, to a proper, grown-up, shiny beast at competitions with the help of a bit of elbow grease and shine products.” — Tamasine Thompson

Before

After

Ted

“My pony loves sleeping and rolling in the mud. The first picture shows how I found him in the morning, and the second shows him plaited up out jumping with the riding club. I have only owned Ted for nine months but he is already turning into a little showjumping star and we plan to affiliate next season.” — Sarah

Before

After

Sabinas Apache Gold

“This is Sabinas Apache Gold aka Sebastian, my homebred four-year-old part-bred New Forest cross cob. He’s by the late Peveril Peterborough and I think he’s fantastic (but I am biased! ) He attended his first ‘pony party’ last Sunday (21 May) winning the coloured in-hand and getting a fourth in a hunter pony class.

He also hates hose pipes, so getting him clean was a challenge!” — Sam Andree-Parsons

Before

After

Bizzie B

“This is my 21-year-old Bizzie B. She lives out 24/7 and loves to roll! I got her in ready to go and do a side saddle display with the Side Saddle Association area 14 team last year at Hartpury. The coating of mud and dust was pretty impressive but she scrubs up well. Just lots of elbow grease to get the dust out and lots of thread for my plaits!” — Jackie Banks

Before

After

Continued below…

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A lucky tie pin, packet of Jelly Babies

Corkhills Cello

“This is Corkhills Cello aka Frank. He’s a lovely Welsh Section B gelding. Frank had been turned out all winter and had turned into a wild mud monster. Enough was enough and he needed a good scrub. Under all that grub I discovered a beauty! He’s got the most amazing summer coat now.” — Chloe Phillips Gray

Before

After

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

He already has his own clothing line, and now global superstar Valegro has put his named to a range of grooming products.

As one of the best known and most popular horses in the world, Valegro — known as Blueberry at home — always looks his best at competitions.

And now Nettex has launched a new “Valegro Blueberry” range, in honour of the Olympic, world and European gold medal-winner.

“This brand new range of Valegro grooming products will see your horse sparkle and gleam just like the superstar himself,” said a spokesman for the company.

“His stable name Blueberry has been used as the inspiration for these great new products.

“Fragrance bursts out of the Blueberry conditioning shampoo, Blueberry mane and tail and Blueberry coat shine. The fragrance- free Blueberry plaiting spray will help you achieve perfect plaits.”

The products come in a grooming tub complete with a free sponge, sheet of stickers and a picture of Carl Hester with Valegro.

This summer fans of Valegro were able to show their support of the dressage star when a t-shirt printed with his face was brought out.

The t-shirt, which is aimed at — but not limited to — teenage girls, features the Olympic gold medal-winner’s head and is finished with Swarovski crystals and pearls. The t-shirt is available in four colours — pink, baby blue, cream and black.

It was the first product from a new Valegro Blueberry range from Classic Dressage.

“It’s just the first piece in what we are planning to be a comprehensive Blueberry Valegro fashion range,” said Julia Hornig of the company.

Valegro was last seen in competition at the FEI European Dressage Championships in August at Aachen, where he picked up two individual gold medals with Charlotte Dujardin. The pair were also part of the silver medal-winning British team and eyes are now firmly on Rio 2016.

For more information visit: www.nettexequine.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

Fly repellent from Supreme Products

Supreme Products has launched a new fly repellent called Fly Off.

The specially blended fly repellent contains a mixture of aromatic oils to provide protection from flies and other unwanted flying creatures.

The product offers horses protection from wasps, flies and insects for a few days.

A 500ml size costs £10.99 and a five litre quantity is available at £82.

For more information visit www.supremeproducts.co.uk

Glitter tattoos from Equidivine

Businesses looking for a bit of extra sparkle can benefit from a new innovation from Equidivine. The company creates glitter tattoos, which companies, charities and riders can have designed in their own brand logo.

The temporary tattoos will then be able to jazz up lecture demos, promotional photo shoots or ad campaigns.

“We have spent many years developing a really fun range of products, which not only add sparkle but also encourage children to spend time grooming and taking care of their ponies,” said Michelle Inch of Equidivine.

“More recently, our products have been used to decorate horses at high profile shows and events including Olympia.

“A company logo as a glitter tattoo is really eye-catching; it’s an advertising opportunity not to be missed.”

Stencils of any company logo can be reproduced and sent with an application kit including glitter colours, which are easy to apply and remove.

Visit: www.equidivine.com

New fly sheet from Shadow Horse

Shadow Horse has added the Kensington Surefit Cut Textilene protective sheet to its online equestrian range.

Styled in a 1000×2000 Denier Textilene® fabric the ‘Surefit’ is specially formulated to keep flies off.

The weave mesh blocks over 70% of harmful UV rays, dirt and grim helping to keep a horse’s coat cleaner and drier.

The protective sheet can be used on its own as fly rug, as a protective layer over a turnout rug to extend its life expectancy or in the summer as a cooler travel rug.

The rug has elasticated cross surcingle’s with belly band, detachable elastic leg straps and double closure front system for extra security.

“This sheet is a fly rug with multi-purpose properties,” said a Shadow Horse spokesman.

It comes in two colours: deluxe black plaid and silver blue plaid with matching neck covers, fly masks, leg wraps and tail covers available at additional costs.

The rug comes in sizes 5’9” to 7’3” priced £116.

For more information visit: www.shadowhorse.co.uk

If you’ve ever thought your horse or pony has a better selection of grooming and pampering products than you, you’re not wrong.

Mane ‘N Tail — a shampoo produced for our equine companions — is now the number one best selling hair care product on Amazon, overtaking brands including L’Oreal.

The shampoo and conditioner have long been a celebrity favourite — Hollywood actress Jennifer Aniston has been championing the brand for years.

But now at just £7.23 for the shampoo and conditioner, mere mortals are getting in on the pony pampering too — Mane N Tail has reportedly seen a sales increase of a whopping 175% this year.

The products were originally “specifically targeted for show horses with long flowing manes and tails”.

Manufacturers Straight Arrow claims the products “help to maintain and achieve long, luxurious, thicker, fuller, healthier-looking hair.”

As well as shampoos, conditioners, detanglers they come in herbal versions and even anti dandruff formulas.

“Our original formula Mane ‘N Tail Shampoo and its companion conditioner have been a best kept secret for beauty aficionados everywhere,” said Devon B. Katzev, president of Straight Arrow.

The products reportedly took off after owners took a sneaky trial of their equine’s hair care — maybe jealous of their flowing locks.

“They told their friends, and then the word spread like wildfire,” added Mr Katzev.

The shampoo formula contains “high lathering and ultra-cleansing agents” that are “fortified with moisturisers and emollients to help leave hair soft and ultra clean”.

H&H reader Hannah Wallis from London isn’t surprised by the products’ rocketing popularity.

“I’ve been a big fan for a few years — when I started using it, my hairdresser commented that my hair had improved in condition, which is enough to keep me using it,” she said.

“My fiance found it a bit disconcerting that the bottles have instructions for equine use, but he’s come round to it: I’ve even caught him stealing the conditioner on occasion (although his hair is very bouncy these days…)!”

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