If you are considering purchasing a horsehair tail for your western horse, you’ve come to the right place. This article will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about the types of western horsehair tails, the benefits of using one, how to care for it, and the popular styles available. We hope by the end of this article, you will feel confident and ready to purchase the best western horsehair tail for your horse.
Types of Western Horsehair Tails
Western horsehair tails come in a variety of styles and lengths, each of which serves a purpose. Depending on the type of horse being used and the activity it is being used for, the style of tail may vary.
Natural Tails
Natural tails are the most common type of tail used. These tails are usually made of the horse’s own tail hair and are kept short, usually no longer than the horse’s hock. The tail is kept short to reduce the risk of it becoming entangled in the stirrup or saddle. Natural tails are used in all disciplines of Western riding.
Show Tails
Show tails are longer than natural tails and are usually made of a combination of the horse’s own hair and purchased hair. These tails are usually kept between 18 and 24 inches long and are often made of a combination of black, white, and grey hair. Show tails are used for decoration and to help the horse stand out in the show ring.
Braided Tails
Braided tails are similar in length to show tails but are made of the horse’s own hair and are tightly braided. Braided tails are used for events such as reining and cutting, as the tight braid prevents the tail from becoming tangled and keeps it out of the horse’s way.
Flicking Tails
Flicking tails are made of purchased hair and are usually kept between 12 and 18 inches long. These tails are used for events such as reining and cutting, as the length and lightness of the tail helps the horse flick his tail and adds to the overall effect.
Clip-On Tails
Clip-on tails are not made of the horse’s own hair and are usually made of synthetic material. These tails are used in shows and events that require a specific look or color. Clip-on tails are usually kept short, between 8 and 12 inches long, and are kept in place with a clip.
Benefits of Using a Western Horsehair Tail
A Western Horsehair Tail is a great tool for horse owners and trainers alike. It offers many benefits that make it a great choice for grooming, showing, and training.
Grooming Benefits
Using a Western Horsehair Tail for grooming can be beneficial for a horse. It can help reduce matting and tangles, as well as helping to keep the tail clean. Horsehair tails are also great for adding volume and shine to the tail.
Show Benefits
Using a Western Horsehair Tail for showing can help a horse look their best. The tail can help add the desired amount of volume and length to the horse’s tail. It can also be used to help make the horse look more balanced and proportionate.
Training Benefits
Using a Western Horsehair Tail for training can be beneficial in many ways. It can help a horse to focus during training and can also help the horse to learn new behaviors. The tail can also be used as a cueing tool to help reinforce behaviors that the horse is learning.
Care of the Tail
It is important to take care of the Western Horsehair Tail. It should be brushed regularly and kept clean. It should also be stored in a safe and dry place when not in use. It is also important to make sure that the tail is not damaged in any way.
How to Care for a Western Horsehair Tail
A western horsehair tail is a beautiful and traditional finishing touch to a western show saddle. But, like all things, it needs to be cared for properly if it is to remain in top condition. Here are some tips for caring for a western horsehair tail:
Cleaning the Hair
Before you can begin caring for your western horsehair tail, it needs to be cleaned. The best way to do this is to use a mild shampoo, such as one specifically designed for horses. Start by wetting the hair with warm water, then apply the shampoo and gently massage it into the hair. Once the shampoo has been worked in, rinse it off with warm water and make sure to get all of the shampoo out. After the tail is clean, use a towel to dry it off.
Conditioning the Hair
Once the tail has been cleaned and dried, you can move on to conditioning it. The best way to do this is to use a good-quality horsehair conditioner. Start by applying the conditioner to the entire length of the tail, taking care to work it in from the tips towards the root. Leave the conditioner on for a few minutes and then rinse it off with warm water. Once the tail is conditioned, use a towel to dry it off.
Brushing the Hair
Once the tail has been cleaned and conditioned, it is time to brush it. The best way to do this is with a soft-bristled brush. Start by brushing the tail in sections, starting at the tips and working towards the root. Be sure to brush in the direction of the hair’s growth and use gentle strokes.
Storing the Hair
When you are not using the western horsehair tail, it is important to store it properly. The best way to do this is to hang the tail on a hook in a well-ventilated area. This will help prevent the hair from becoming tangled or matted. It is also important to make sure that the tail is stored away from direct sunlight as this can cause the hair to fade over time.
Popular Styles of Western Horsehair Tails
Western horsehair tails are a versatile accessory that can be used to create a variety of different looks for a horse’s tail. Some of the most popular styles for horsehair tails include:
Natural Style
The natural style is the most popular style of horsehair tail. This style is achieved by leaving the tail in its natural, unaltered state. This style is often seen on horses in shows, competitions, and photo shoots.
Braided Style
The braided style is another popular style for horsehair tails. This style involves plaiting or braiding the tail into a specific pattern. The pattern can be intricate and decorative, or simple and practical.
Curled Style
The curled style is a fun and playful style of horsehair tail. This style involves curling the tail into tight ringlets. This style is often seen at rodeos and other western-style events.
Wrapped Style
The wrapped style is a bold and dramatic style of horsehair tail. This style involves wrapping the tail in various materials, such as yarn, ribbon, or fabric. This style can be used to create a custom look for a horse.
Clipped Style
The clipped style is a practical style of horsehair tail. This style involves trimming the tail to a specific length. This style is often used to keep the tail from dragging on the ground and getting dirty.
Summary
Western horsehair tails come in a variety of styles and lengths that are tailored to the type of horse and activity. Natural tails, which are usually just the tail hair from the horse cut to no longer than hock length, can be used for all types of Western riding. Show tails contain both natural hair from the horse plus purchased black, white and grey hair; they measure between 18-24 inches long mainly for decorative purposes when showing horses. Lastly, braided tails maintain similar lengths as show tails but with an extra layer of braid added on top.