Having a horse means lots of responsibility, and one of those is keeping your horse well groomed. If you’re getting started in building the best horse grooming kit, you’ll notice that the choices can be overwhelming.
Today, there are many types, styles, and designs of grooming tools for your horse. From different sizes and shapes to colors and brush density, it can be hard to know what you need. So, if you’re uncertain about what type of grooming kits and tools to use, we’re here to help. But first, why do you even have to groom your horse?
While the best horse grooming kit is designed to help maintain a clean coat, there are additional benefits you might not be aware of. Grooming isn’t only for cleaning, but encourages bonding and builds trust between you and your horse. It gives you both a moment to stand patiently and enjoy time spent with one another.
Daily grooming also gives you a chance to detect any injuries or other health problems you may otherwise miss. Finding any early health concerns will provide you with the best chance of getting treatment before they become worse. Some of the most common issues you may run into could be, skin infections, allergic reactions, cuts, and thrush. All of which can be spotted or prevented during grooming.
While brushing, you should also make it a habit to follow along with your hand. This will help you feel around your horse’s body for any abnormal lumps or bumps. Grooming also has a few beneficial training side effects as well. By taking your horse from the stable at least once a day for grooming, a handler can convince them that merely being led from the stall doesn’t necessarily mean work.
If a carpenter is only as good as his tools, the same rule applies when grooming your horse. But also similar to a carpenter, having the correct tools is essential for a job well done. Your horse has different needs for all areas of its body, so there’s a wide variety of tools to choose. It’s good to take the time to learn about the most essential of these tools.
That will make it easier to know what to look for when choosing the best horse grooming kit.
- Currycomb: removes dried, caked-on mud, extra hairs, and tangles from your horse’s coat
- Dandy brush: used right after currying to whisk away the left-over layers of loosened dirt and hair
- Sweat or water scraper: a metal or plastic device to remove excess sweat after a hard workout or training session and excess water after your horse’s bath
- Mane and tail brush or comb: horses with short, pulled manes should have combs with wide-toothed plastic or metal teeth
- Face brush: contains a blend of soft synthetic or natural bristles and is for dusting away the last of the fine foreign particles left by the previous brushes
- Hoof pick: removes anything lodged in the grooves of the hooves
You should groom your horse daily, both before and after each training or riding session. Grooming before you start helps to make sure there’s nothing out of the ordinary with your horse. Grooming after the day’s exercises helps remove sweat and debris that might have accumulated during the workout.
No matter your routine, you’ll want to use your curry comb to loosen the dirt in your horse’s coat. Move in circular sweeps over your horse’s body, but be careful around the bony areas. It will remove any caked mud, grit, dust, and other debris. After currying the body to get rid of the coarser dirt, you now want to work with a dandy body brush.
This stiff bristled brush will remove what the curry comb missed. Start on one side and move around your horse in sweeping strokes following the direction of the hair lie. Now you should switch to a soft brush to finish off the coat and remove any remaining dust. You should start by brushing your horse’s face and work your way down. Be sure to use your hand while you brush to feel for any possible lumps, bumps, or missed cuts.
It’s essential for you to remove all dirt and debris from the hooves, checking for loose shoes and lost nails. We usually do this first just in case something might be lodged in the grooves, irritating your horse. That’s where the hoof pick comes in. Typically, you’ll start with picking up one of the front feet and work your way around the horse.Begin with the front foot, back foot, opposite back foot, making your way to the opposite front foot. Whatever your pattern is, your horse will catch on quickly. Brushing the mane and tail can be done in any order during your routine. You’ll want to use a mane and tail brush or comb to detangle your horse’s hairs. A detangling spray is also helpful to have, as it makes brushing out the long strands much easier.
It’s important to stand to one side when brushing the tail. Horses cannot always tell what is behind them. Pull the tail gently over to you, making sure you’re out of the way in case your horse kicks. To see the grooming process in action, have a look at the excellent video below.
While there are many different tools that you can experiment with, it’s more convenient to choose from a pre-designed kit. Kits are usually much cheaper and will save you time and money rather than buying all the individual items
You’ll need to make sure the kit you choose is durable, reliable, and includes all the essential tools. And with so many out there on the market, it can take some time to go through them all. But don’t worry, we’ve already done all the research for you! Below are some of the best kits in a variety of styles, making it easy for you to find one that best suits you and your horse’s needs.
From a company that makes everything from toasters to horse grooming kits, we didn’t expect much from Oster. However, we were pleasantly surprised by this company’s excellent grooming sets. The brushes consist of rubber control-touch handles for a secure grip and added comfort.
The included storage bag is flexible and can fit each piece neatly for easy organization and transportation. There is room in the bag to keep two additional items and an outside pocket. The Oster Equine Care Series includes all the primary essentials you’ll need to keep your horse looking its best. Although this particular set doesn’t feature a sweat or water scraper, it’s still a great choice.
- Dandy brush
- Soft face brush
- Currycomb
- Mane and tail brush and comb
- Hoof pick
- Storage bag
Weaver Leather Grooming Kit, Black/Beige
- 7-piece assortment of grooming essentials in a durable nylon tote bag
- Tote features six exterior pockets for added storage
- Features a convenient top Drawstring closure and plastic feet that protect bottom of bag
Weaver Leather has been producing high-performing equine products for many years. As expected, you’ll get exactly what’s promised with this fantastic best horse grooming kit.
The kit brushes are of high quality and comfortable to use. We were also very impressed with the additional two-in-one curry scraper combo. This tool features a curved rubber blade on one side and coarse curry teeth on the other.
The Weaver Leather Grooming Kit didn’t leave anything out. It features every tool you could want for keeping your horse happy, healthy, and clean.
- Dandy brush
- Soft brush
- Currycomb
- Mane and tail brush and comb
- Sweat scraper, course currycomb combo
- Hoof pick
- Bag
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Owned by JT International, Tough 1 specializes in all types of equine supplies, from riding gear to grooming kits. Although the products are usually more affordable than other brands, it doesn’t mean a lack of quality. The best thing we like about this set from Tough 1 is the hoof pick and sweat scraper. Both tools are top in the field and made out of material for the best long-lasting performance.
We also found the bristles of the brushes reliable and durable, but the stiff brush is harder than expected. So just keep that in mind in case you have a sensitive horse. Tough 1 Great Grips Brush Set comes complete with six of the essential grooming supplies. It also comes with a convenient bag built with multiple pockets so you can store and carry all your tools.
- Stiff brush
- Soft brush
- Mane and tail brush
- Comb and sweat scraper
- Hoof pick
- Bag
- Bag
If you’re already deep in the equestrian world, you’ll probably recognize the Partrade Trading Corporation name. The company has a full line of nearly limitless top quality equine products to choose from. Their kit includes several tools for your horse, from two dandy brushes of verifying bristle strength to two hoof picks.
All of these consist of durable material that will last through all the day to day activities of the field. This kit is a best horse grooming kit choice for all levels and perfect for those taking their grooming kit on the road. It includes all the necessary tools for a happy horse. Additionally, the bonus transparent case will help to make sure you didn’t forget anything.
- Wooden dandy brush
- Plastic dandy brush
- Sweat Scraper
- Mane and tail comb
- Hoof pick
- Grooming glove
- Plastic hoof pick
- Carrying case
Derby Premium Comfort 9 Item Horse Grooming Kit (Blue/Yellow)
- DESIGNED WITH YOUR HORSE’S COMFORT IN MIND – Our deluxe grooming kits include all of the tools you need to keep your…
- THE PERFECT GIFT FOR THE EQUESTRIAN IN YOUR LIFE – Our horse grooming kits are the perfect birthday or holiday gift for…
- GREAT FOR BOTH CHILDREN AND ADULTS – These grooming kit sets are great for children to use to learn how to groom horses,…
Derby Originals is another known name in the equestrian market, which includes a high-quality product history of 20 years. The company offers a vast range of products for every horse lover. This best horse grooming kit from Derby Originals has hardwearing brushes with varying bristle lengths to last throughout the seasons.
It’s also good to note that it is more suitable for beginners. Overall, this is a great grooming kit for people who are new to the equestrian scene or for younger riders. It’s a comprehensive, colorful kit that contains all the essential tools of any groomer’s needs.
- Currycomb
- Hard brush
- Soft brush
- Mane and tail comb
- Sweat scraper
- Sponge
- Bag
Southwestern Equine Deluxe Grooming Kit (Blue)
- COLORS – Many fun colors to choose from, to either match your style or make the perfect gift for a friend (Colors may…
- INCLUDES – Sweat scraper, hoof pick, comb, round sponge, square sponge, fine point rubber curry with handle, soft…
- HANDLES – An adjustable carrying strap to make transporting and carrying a breeze and makes this bag perfect for any…
Another top name in the industry is Southwestern Equine and, as expected, they never disappoint. The company’s primary focus is keeping quality high and costs low. The currycomb works wonders for removing loose hair, and the brush bristles are top quality.
They’re guaranteed to maintain their shape even after years of extensive cleaning and heavy use. The Southwestern Equine Deluxe Grooming Kit includes everything to offer for all levels of riders. It also comes in many different colors that appeal to younger riders.
- Currycomb
- Hard brush
- Soft brush
- Sponge (two)
- Comb
- Sweat scraper
- Hoof Pick
- Bag
Operated by Desert Equestrian, Equestria Sport products are built to last. They are the definition of a top brand name trying to keep their prices low without the substitution for quality.
The tools in this best horse grooming kit feel sturdy with easy to grip handles and a bonus collapsible cloth bag. Although this kit comes in a box with most supplies, the only thing that it could use is a currycomb.
- Dandy brush
- Extra body brush
- Face brush
- Mane and tail brush and comb
- Sweat scraper
- Collapsible bag
- Hoof Pick
As you can see, grooming your horse is an important step and can provide them with many benefits. Regular grooming is not only a functional part of horse care, but it’s also a fantastic bonding exercise. There’s little in life that’s more rewarding than the look in your horse’s eye as you brush them down.
So it’s essential to make sure you have the best horse grooming kit to give them a proper shine. While what you choose is all personal preference, we hope we have helped make the choice easier. Let us know what’s in your own grooming kit by leaving a comment below!
Featured image: Image by Willfried Wende from Pixabay
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Last update on 2021-02-26 at 09:35 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API