Horse Plaiting Tools and Plaiting Bands

There are different stories about the origins of horse plaiting. Horse owners have been using horse plaiting bands, plaiting combs and other plaiting tools for at least two centuries. It's a wonderful look, highlighting their neck and conformation. It started for practical purposes, plaiting began as a way to prevent the mane from entangling with the rider’s hands and tack. Farmers and carriage drivers also plaited the tails to prevent them from snagging on farming tools and carriages.

Horse plaiting also has a long tradition in the military for parades and special occasions. It was used for hunting and other activities for practicality and aesthetics. This practice was later adopted by breeding associations as a fancy way to present horses in shows and elegance concourses, and it was translated into other sports and activities. Today, horse plaiting is considered an art and one of the most preferred choices for presenting competition horses at shows.

There are different types and techniques of horse plaiting depending on the breed, the length and thickness of the manes, and the desired effect. The most intricate designs require horse plaiting needles and waxed thread, but typically, rubber and silicone horse plaiting bands are faster to apply and quicker to remove. Whether you use horse plaiting thread or bands, you will usually choose a colour that suits your horse.

The number and size of plaits depend on the horse’s size, neck length, and selected layout. Plaiting bands and plaiting thread both have their own appeal. In terms of practicality, even while the bands are easier to apply, top grooms state that using plaiting thread allows for more sophisticated designs and keeps the plaits more secure. While it makes sense, the way in which you do your horse mane plaiting is a matter of personal preference, time restrictions and patience.

Top tip: Remember never to overtighten the plaits, as this could cause your horse discomfort, pain in the neck and head, and hair damage. Overtightened plaits can also restrict your horse’s movement and may cause behavioural issues. The first times you plait your horse, always ask for expert advice and, if in doubt, ask an experienced groom, trainer, or fellow rider to double-check your job.

At Discount Equestrian, we have a wide selection of the best horse plaiting combs, bands, needles, and everything you need to give your horse’s mane and tail a special touch. In our fantastic collection, you will find products from top and renowned brands such as Bitz, Effol, Elico, Harlequin, HY, LeMieux, Lincoln, NAF, Rhinegold, Straight Arrow, and Supreme Products.

Below, you will find some of our best-selling products in our amazing horse plaiting tools and bands range.

Rhinegold Silicone Plaiting Bands in Handy 1800pcs Tub – “These super stretchy horse plaiting bands are specially designed for the job. They don’t brittle with sun exposure like rubber bands do, which is great for ensuring your horse’s plaited mane will remain perfect for a long time. With 1,800 pieces, you will have enough supply for a lot of shows! They come in brown, silver, gold, white, and black.”

Bitz Plaiting Thread – “This reel of 8mm waxed cotton horse plaiting thread is 250m long and comes in white, brown, and black to match your horse’s mane colour. It’s strong and durable, ensuring perfect and successful plaiting for your horse.”

Elico Plaiting Needles 20 Pack – “These high-quality horse plaiting needles come with a large eye for easy threading. They are sturdy with a flat finish, sturdy but not sharp, to prevent accidentally pinching your horse.”

Supreme Products Unpicking Scissors – “These versatile and practical pocket-snipping scissors are great for cutting and removing plaits, trimming unwanted stray hairs, and cutting horse plaiting thread while you apply it.”

HyShine Perfect Plaits – “This fabulous all-in-one horse plaiting comb is perfect for the job. It allows you to comb the mane and includes a clip to hold the rest of the mane out of the way and work comfortably section by section. Besides, it has a built-in plaiting band holder, making this tool a great choice for anyone who plaits regularly.”

Lincoln Ultimate Brush with Plaiting Kit – “Every horse mane plaiting kit should include a soft brush, and this handy little set is perfect for your kit. When plaiting your horse, you need a brush for preparation and moisturizing the mane while working. This beautiful brush comes with a Lincoln Plait Aid to help divide sections of the mane, plaiting bands, and a practical compartment to store them.”

Straight Arrow Mane 'n Tail Spray 'n Braid 473ml – “This spray is super practical for braiding and plaiting your horse. It eliminates flyaway strands for a neat result. It’s formulated with a pH-balanced, water-based formula, ideal for dealing with the most difficult manes and making your horse plaiting job easier and quicker.

If you need advice or help choosing the perfect horse plaiting tools, don’t hesitate to contact our friendly Discount Equestrian Team. We are always happy to help!

For more horse care and beauty products, please check out our fabulous Shampoos and Bathing, Make Up and Cover Cream, and Showing Products collections.