Bandages or tendon boots prevent injury in cases where the horses knock their legs on the jump. Horses also require a jumping saddle and appropriate bit, reins and head stall for maximum control. In regular show jumping, the horses aren t judged on looks at all. Braiding or plaiting the mane is traditional for hunters. The greater the number of plaits, the longer the neck appears.
Controversies abound as to whether an even or odd number of braids is desirable.
Allow extra time in your grooming schedule for perfect braiding, but remember that braiding isn t a requirement in all Hunter classes. It is done specifically to make the horse look better. If your horse has an imperfect head or neck, leaving the mane unbraided may be the best option. Another option is quarter marking. These turn attention to the hindquarters and are usually made in a checkerboard pattern, using a mane comb and stencil.