6 Tips To Have Your Horse Looking Great In The Show Ring

Show season is right around the corner. If you want to truly stand out in the show ring, then put these six tips to work to have your horse looking absolutely great.

Put in the Elbow Grease

While bathing your horse before the show is important, if you really want to make his coat shiny, then regular grooming – especially currying – is the answer. Make grooming a part of your daily routine to have your horse’s coat looking great come show day.

Have Your Horse Conditioned

All of the grooming in the world won’t make your horse look great if his body’s not in great condition. Getting your horse ready for the show ring means plenty of time riding and conditioning him well before the show day arrives. Make sure that your horse’s diet is adequate to support the muscle that he will develop during conditioning.

Clip Your Horse Appropriately

A good clip job can help accentuate your horse’s features in the show ring. If you’re not sure about what clip is appropriate for your horse, ask your trainer to show you. Generally speaking, your horse should have his whiskers and ears trimmed, and clipping the excess hairs from the backs of your horse’s legs and from underneath his chin can create a polished look.

Braid Well and Neatly

Braids make a huge difference in your horse’s appearance, and poorly done braids can truly stand out when you’re in the ring. If your riding discipline requires braiding, then make sure that you spend the time to learn how to braid well, and that you put in the effort to have your horse’s braids looking great. If you’re not a talented braider, then it’s time for more practice or you may wish to hire a braider to do the job for you.

Clean Your Tack

There’s nothing worse than a well-groomed horse wearing tack that hasn’t been thoroughly cleaned. Spend time thoroughly cleaning your tack before the show, and make sure that all of your tack fits your horse appropriately. Pay attention to the details, such as making sure that all straps are neatly tucked into their keepers, for a smooth and polished look.

Don’t Forget Last-Minute Touch-Ups

Just before you enter the show ring, touch up your horse to have him looking great. Use baby powder or corn starch on the whites of his legs, wipe the dust off of your boots, and wipe down your horse’s mouth.

Getting your horse ready for the show ring takes some extra effort, but you’ll be rewarded with a horse that looks phenomenal.