Fake Tail Care

A braider is always happy to see a tail bandage left out, but it is a shame that this tail is not bright white. It happens all the time. People want tails really clean, so they use harsh detergents, then detangler/shine sprays. This dull brittle wig that tangles easily is the result.

Is this the goal? Fake tails are expensive. So are those ribbons! Strut your stuff. Show the judge you know what you are doing by sporting TOP TURNOUT. It is actually MUCH easier to do things more effectively.

To WASH the tail without it tangling, I would let the tail hang. Wet it with a hose. Put the #shampoo on straight or having been diluted in a bucket. With the later, squeeze a sponge over the tail to let the soap run over the tail. Then, with the tail between your hands, rub hair together, down the length. That will get the soap into the tail and cause some friction, without making a mess of it. Then, organize the hair this way.

IF you use Lucky Braids All-In-One Shampoo and comb the tail wet AS DIRECTED, you won't need any conditioner nor detangler. The hair will stay separated and super easy to maintain. The first time you comb it may take a bit more time. Go easy. Once you get into the program, it will be a breeze.

If the tail gets dirty and you don't want to wash it, just spray on the Whitener/Dry Wash and simply wipe off dirt with a towel. Comb wet.

This is a good way to leave tails out for the braider, but I would have the BANDAGE stay up around the top, so hair lower stays fuller/fluffier.

Tail bandages- I like the Deluxe (extra long) cotton blend ones made by Hartmann Conco. Nylon slips too much, which can break hair and compromise the braid. Plus, you need the length so it can be comfortable and secure. Don't put these tail bandages in the dryer, or the elastic will go like on the one you see here. If you do choose to dry them, don't overdo it. You can order them by calling Equine Tack & Nutritionals: (800) 833-8225, (954) 725-4774 or equinetack1@gmail.com. They do not look like this, but this is the link to order them.

Here's more on how to get out of the dingy dull tail cycle and into the bright and shiny tail system for horses.

Ruthann Smith has spent a lifetime studying sound horsemanship- both as a groom for top international horses and as a renowned braider. Quietly twisting manes atop a ladder, she watched and learned in some of the best stables in the world.

As her passion for great grooming grew, Ruthann became focused on researching, collecting and sharing the best practices of the world’s keenest horsemen. Ultimately, Ruthann used her vast experience to develop exceptional equine grooming products to help raise the bar of horsemanship.

The knowledge she dispenses and the products Ruthann developed solve age-old grooming issues. Making quality horse care easier, they have received the highest honors in the equine industry*. Her Lucky Braids for Top Turnout coat care and braiding products are the best, most versatile, cost-effective and easiest solutions available on the market today.

Now Ruthann offers her LOVE, LOVE Guarantee. If not totally thrilled with a product she developed, Ruthann will refund you in full, regardless of where you purchased it.

It’s her life’s mission to empower horses by educating, motivating and equipping their people to be true horsemen. You can access Ruthann’s tips at: The Grooming Resource on LuckyBraids.com, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest and her Horsemanship Clinics.

*After testing 350 products, Lucky Braids All-In-One Horse Shampoo was named product of the year by Horse Journal, the “Consumer Reports” of the industry. They also named Lucky Braids Shampoo and Top Pick for greys and whites. Lucky Braids specialized braiding yarn also got stellar reviews.