Show Preparation

Horse show preparation products are the finishing touches applied after a horse is washed and groomed. This range covers chalk and whitening powders, show makeup, quarter mark sprays, combs and kits, coat shine and finishing sprays, hoof polish, and scissors and razors for trimming.

They are part of our wider Grooming collection.

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Trimming Before a Show

A neat trim tidies the outline of the horse. Most riders trim a few days before a show so any marks have time to settle.

  • Scissors tidy fetlocks, bridle paths, ears and the end of the tail.
  • Thinning scissors blend hair without leaving a blunt line.
  • Razors shape the jawline and remove whiskers where your discipline allows.

Check the rules for your discipline and welfare guidance before trimming whiskers or inner ear hair.

Whitening and Makeup

Chalk and whitening powders brighten white socks and markings once the legs are clean and dry. Show makeup and highlighters define the eyes and muzzle for show ring classes.

Wash white markings the day before with a whitening product from horse shampoo for the best base.

Quarter Marks and Finishing Sprays

Quarter marks are patterns brushed into the coat over the hindquarters using a comb or stencil, then set with a spray. Finishing and shine sprays add gloss to the coat and repel dust.

Avoid shine sprays on the saddle area, as they can make the saddle slip. For conditioners and detanglers, see coat care.

Packing for the Show

A grooming bag or caddy keeps sprays, chalk and brushes together on the day. Pack plaiting spares from plaiting supplies and a soft body brush from grooming brushes for last minute touch ups.

Brands in This Category

Show ranges include Hairy Pony, Champion Tails, Showmaster and NRG.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you put quarter marks on a horse?

Start with a clean, well brushed coat that is slightly damp. Brush the hair over the hindquarters in one direction, then use a quarter mark comb, brush or stencil to create the pattern against the lie of the coat. Set the marks with a holding spray so they last through the day.

How do I get white socks clean for a show?

Wash the legs the day before with a whitening shampoo and rinse well. On show day, brush off any dust or stains, then rub chalk or a whitening powder into the dry hair and brush off the excess. Keep the legs covered with bandages or boots during travel to keep them clean.

Can I use shine spray on the saddle area?

It is best not to. Coat shine and finishing sprays make the hair slippery, which can cause a saddle or girth to move. Mask off the saddle and girth area, or apply the spray only to the neck, hindquarters, mane and tail. Some riders spray a cloth and wipe it over the coat for more control.

When should I trim my horse before a show?

Trim a few days before a show rather than the morning of the event. This gives the hair time to settle so scissor and clipper lines look natural. Check your discipline rules and welfare guidance first, as some organisations restrict trimming of whiskers and inner ear hair because horses use them to sense their surroundings.

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