Instructions
Tie your horse securely, or ask an assistant to hold the horse. It is much easier to work with your horse if it is tied securely and standing still.
Trim the horse's mane to a length of five to six inches if the mane is of uneven length. It is easier to do attractive braids if the mane is even.
Divide the mane into equal sections. Make each section as even as possible, and secure each section with a rubber band or small hair clip.
Dampen each section of mane as you go. Use a spray bottle to wet the hair. Start from the top of the mane, closest to the ears, and work your way back.
Separate the first section of hair into three even sections approximately a half-inch wide. Begin braiding the three hair strands together, starting at the top of the mane.
Place the right section of hair over the middle section and pull it taut. Then place the left section over the middle section and pull taut. Continue alternating sections of hair until the entire section is braided.
Braid down to the end of the hair section, then secure that section with a rubber band. Wrap the rubber band around the hair as many times as needed to make it secure.
Fold the newly braided section in half by folding the bottom of the section up underneath itself. Secure the braid with another rubber band, this time at the top of the braid.
Continue braiding the remaining sections of the mane one section at a time. Apply a small amount of hair gel to the top of the mane to secure any loose strands and make the hair stay in place.
How to Do a Horse Hair Braid
If you plan to enter your horse in competitions, it is a good idea to learn how to braid a horse's mane. Many upper-level horse shows and competitions require that braids be in place. Even if your show does not have this requirement, taking the time to braid your horse's mane can give you that winning edge and make your horse look its best.