Horses main?

Question

I started showing this year. people tell me since my horse is a paint and has quarter in him that i have to cut his main short. i dont want to but i dont want to get points takin off because of it

Answer 1

You should trim your horse's , mane because if you're really serious about showing and you want every point to count it's worth it, you never know you may like your horse with a shorter mane.  The horse I ride has a shorter mane and it looks pretty good on him.  I ride English and I jump, the shorter mane also gives you a few advantages: Like your horse's neck isn't as sweaty in the summer, and not as many tangles.  It's really up to you, if you're a serious rider/shower you really should consider cutting it.  If you really, really like your horses mane like it is keep it that way.  The decision is really up to you!!! : )

Answer 2

Well, yes - in general your horses mane should be cut to about 3-4" in length and banded if you're riding western or braided if you're riding english.   It takes a little while to get used to, but honestly, it is beautiful!

If you're showing in smaller 4H/open shows you don't necessarily have to cut it - but it must atleast be washed, brushed, and cleaned.  If you're showing in breed shows or larger open shows (or your 4H state show, etc.) I would definately suggest cutting it.  

It makes it easier for the judge to judge a horse in halter with a mane cut and you can be docked points in showmanship since grooming is part of that score.

However, if you're doing reining, cattle events, or speed events (like barrels) - a longer mane is perfectly acceptable and the norm for all levels of show.  

Best wishes!

Answer 3

It depends on which discipline you ride him in.

Answer 4

it should be short. its not "supposed" to be cut, pulled is the look they want, and it won't stick up. The correct way to do it is pulling it.

Answer 5

i was going to point out the spelling mistake.. i am OCD about spelling errors but you caught it. Anywho.. youre judged partially on appearance. Most judges will go mostly for performance but if they arent sure between two horses they will choose one that looks better. It is more proper to have his mane cut short and level, then band it at every show.. but in english you can typically leave it long and plait it for shows.. problem is that it takes way longer than banding and its not good for western. I at first wanted my mare's mane to grow out. i didnt think it was a big deal since i didnt do pleasure competitively, but i ended up cutting it during the end of the show season because her mane was mostly dead, and as it turns out.. she looks alot better with it shorter... you may find after you cut and level it that it actually boosts your horses attractiveness as weird as that sounds.. it makes them look better typically. In my experience it gives the illusion of a more ellegant neck and head.. you might decide you prefer to have him with a QH cut..

Answer 6

If you don't want a pulled mane, just braid it back like an arab. They should not mark you down for it. Arabs and similar breeds have a braid that runs down the side of the neck and gets longer as it goes back. If you look it up on the net, you should be able to find pictures of it. I know a ton of people that do it and they place really well. It will give your horse a more professional look without the pulled mane. They have a good picture on this thread: youngrider.com/FindPost776332.aspx

Answer 7

depends on what kind of western show you are doing are you doing reining you can leave it long if its showmanship or trail the majority of judges rather see a clean pulled mane, dunno why i like it natural, clean pulled short mane refines the horses's neck and make it look more sulpted