5 min read


At equestrian competitions a well-groomed horse not only showcases your dedication to horsemanship but also highlights the natural beauty of your horse. One of the key parts of a polished show look is a perfectly plaited mane and tail. With Equinade Supreme Styling Cream, achieving professional-grade results has never been easier. This versatile three-in-one product is specifically designed to offer exceptional grip, radiant shine and unwavering hold, making it the ultimate tool for creating stunning plaits that stay secure throughout even the most rigorous events and conditions. Keep reading to learn more about our step-by-step guide to preparing your horse for the competition ring with Equinade.
Step 1: Start with a clean horse
Preparation for any show begins with a clean horse. Wash your horse’s entire body, mane, and tail thoroughly using Equinade Showsilk Shampoo Concentrate, ensuring you remove any dirt, grease, or residue. A clean base not only makes the plaiting process easier but also ensures a sleek, professional finish. Rinse shampoo thoroughly and follow up with Equinade Showsilk Protein Conditioner, focusing on detangling the mane and tail so that you are starting your show preparation process with no knots. Allow the hair to dry completely before moving on to the next step. Damp hair can make it harder to achieve neat sections and can compromise the final result. It’s perfectly fine to complete this step the day before you wish to plait your horse, and can even make life a bit easier to do so.
Step 2: Groom and Detangle
Once the hair is dry, use a wide-toothed comb or detangling brush to remove any knots and smooth out the strands. This step is crucial for creating even sections and preventing uneven plaits. Pay attention to the base of the mane and tail, as these areas can often have stubborn tangles. The Equinade Supreme Styling Cream formula works best on smooth, detangled hair, so don’t skip this step!
Step 3: Apply Supreme Styling Cream
Now comes the star of the show: Equinade Supreme Styling Cream. Start by applying a scoop of Supreme Styling Cream to your hands. Rub your hands together and work the product through the mane, ensuring even distribution. Focus on covering each section of mane in cream from the roots to lengths. The cream’s non-greasy texture makes it easy to work with, giving you control without making the hair sticky or heavy. We recommend applying to the entire mane or several sections at a time, before commencing plaiting, as this allows time for the cream to absorb into the hair and become slightly tacky to help with the plaiting process. While this happens, you can enjoy the delicious pink marshmallow fragrance.
Repeat the process for the tail, applying the cream from the base to the ends. The product’s smoothing properties will help you achieve a polished look, essential for that competitive edge in the show ring.


Step 4: Section the Hair
Using a comb, divide the mane into equal sections. The number of sections depends on the length and thickness of your horse’s mane and the style of plaits you wish to achieve. Traditional show plaits usually require 9 to 13 sections along the neck. Keep the sections consistent in size for a uniform appearance. Some hair clips can be handy to help to hold each section until you are ready to plait them, making the job even easier.
If you plan to plait the tail as well, start by dividing it into three equal parts at the base. Tail plaits are optional in some disciplines but can definitely add an extra touch of elegance to your presentation.
Step 5: Begin Plaiting
With your sections prepared, by now the hair should feel slightly tacky, and it’s time to start plaiting. For each section of the mane, begin at the top and create a tight, even braid. Secure the end with a small elastic band or plaiting thread. As you braid, you’ll notice how Equinade’s Supreme Styling Cream helps keep the hair smooth and manageable, reducing the frustration of flyaways or uneven strands.
Once all sections are braided, you can roll them into neat rosettes for a classic show-ring look. Secure the rolled plaits with thread or additional bands. The superior blend of premium waxes in the Supreme Styling Cream will ensure that your plaits stay perfectly in place throughout the day.
For the tail, start plaiting from the base downwards. If you’re creating a French braid-style tail plait, ensure each added section is neat and tight. Secure the end with an elastic band, and if desired, finish with a decorative wrap or bow for added flair.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Once your plaits are complete, give them a final check to ensure they’re secure and symmetrical. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any stray hairs or dust. Equinade’s Supreme Styling Cream already provides amazing hold and a natural sheen, so additional finishing products are not necessary.
Here are a few extra tips to help with seamless show preparation:
- Plan ahead: Allocate enough time for grooming and plaiting to avoid last-minute stress. A rushed job can compromise the quality of your plaits.
- Practice makes perfect: If you’re new to plaiting, practice on non-show days to build your skills and confidence.
- Use the right tools: Invest in quality combs and plaiting bands to complement Equinade’s Supreme Styling Cream.
- Protect the plaits: If your horse is travelling to the event, consider using a mane protector, hood or tail bag to keep the plaits intact.
Creating stunning plaits for equestrian events doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right tools, techniques, and products like Equinade’s Supreme Styling Cream, you can achieve a flawless look that highlights your horse’s elegance and your attention to detail. Follow these steps, and you’ll be ready to impress in the show ring every time. So, grab your Equinade Supreme Styling Cream, and let your horse’s mane and tail steal the spotlight.