Young Rider Braiding a Horse’s Mane
A rider prepares her horse for a show by carefully styling its mane into classic button plaits inside the barn.
A4 format (portrait), black outlines on a white background · for home and classroom use
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Preparing Horses for Competition
Grooming forms a central part of competition preparations, showcasing the bond and dedication between rider and horse. Braiding the mane keeps hair neatly organized so it does not interfere with reins during performance. These detailed turnout traditions have been preserved across equestrian sports for generations.
The Tradition of Button Plaits
Button plaits are small, tightly folded braids secured along the top of a horse's neck using yarn or small rubber bands. Numbering usually ranges from eleven to seventeen plaits, depending on the neck length and traditional discipline rules. Proper braiding highlights the muscular curve of the horse's crest during judging.
Colors of Horse Hair and Grooming Supplies
- Horse mane: Jet black, flaxen blonde, deep brown, or mixed gray hair
- Braiding yarn: Matching black, brown, white, or contrasting yarn colors
- Horse coat: Glossy bay, sorrel, roan, or dapple gray
- Grooming comb: Durable plastic or aluminum in navy, red, or black