In the May issue of Equine magazine, where you can read the full report about many more products, our testers have been merrily washing and brushing in order to bring you reviews on some of their favourite grooming and presentation products. Here is a taster of just some of them....
It’s Show Time!!
Brushed – √. Shampooed – √. Conditioned – √. Brushed Again – √. Hooves Cleaned and Polished – √. Mane and Tail Brushed - √. Mane Plaited – √. Brushed Again – √. Clean Tack - √. Load onto lorry - √. Arrive at Showground - √. Check Plaits - √. Brush For Final Time -√. Enter Showring - √. Leave with Red Rosette - √√√.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - Feibing’s - Satin Sheen - The company says: Keeps manes and tails tangle free, produces a healthy sheen and a soft coat that repels dirt and dust. Non-toxic and safe for use on even sensitive horses. RRP: around £12.00 (1 litre). www.abbeyengland.com
Our tester, Maria Phillips, says: I used this on two horses after washing their manes and tails and waiting for them to dry. I wiped the whole coat over with a damp cloth and then applied it all over, avoiding eyes and sensitive areas. Their coats felt much cleaner and silky to the touch and cut grooming times down for several days as the dust didn’t seem to build up as quickly and stable stains were easily removed. Their manes and tails were tangle free between each wash and it minimised the loss of tail hair when brushing tails. There was no adverse reaction and neither did it leave any residue sticky or otherwise. I applied it fairly liberally, it lasted several weeks and doesn't have a strong or offensive odour. Fabulous product and if I can source it easily will use it again without doubt.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - Groom Away – Ultra White Shampoo - The company says: Deep cleansing and moisturising shampoo to ensure whites become brilliant white. Enhances coats natural colour and shine. The conditioning agents and anti-static formula of the shampoo ensure a soft and glossy coat. Also ideal for dogs, show sheep and llamas. RRP: £5.99 (400ml); £39.99 (1litre). www.flyaway.ltd.uk
Our tester, Simon Buckley, says: An extremely useful product which I used while away competing in Spain and with two incredibly dirty greys with us there isn't much left in the bottle now! It eliminated any stains with ease and most importantly did not irritate their skin at all and left their coats very soft and smooth. Tea Tree Oil is included in the mix, which helps keep their skin healthy. Easy to apply, easy to use, ideal for a busy yard and I will be purchasing more.
VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - Wahl – Grooming Tools - The company says: Ergonomic handles with a soft rubberised surface to offer maximum user comfort and make grooming tasks simpler and easier. The Rubber Curry is ideal for sweat, dirt and loose hair removal, while the innovatively designed Body Brushes are available in three different varieties. The Stiff Body Brush removes mud and dirt, the Soft Body Brush is perfect for polishing, and the unique Combo Body Brush is a versatile 2-in-1! Also in the range is a hoof pick, mane and tail brush with moulded ends to reduce split hairs and damage to the skin and a soft, gentle face brush. RRP: from £3.99. www.wahl.co.uk
Our tester, Peter Bulman, says: I had three body brushes (hard, soft and a combination), a mane brush, plus hoofpick. The shape of the body brushes (longer, narrower and shaped 'in', in the centre) makes them easy to handle - haven’t dropped them once! and allows one to reach easier into more awkward places, eg back of the pastern. First impression of the hard brush is it's too hard but not so, as no complaints whatsoever from any of the horses. Makes particularly short work of dried mud, especially on legs, with the soft brush finishing off well. The ‘combi’ is convenient for a quick brush up using just the one brush. When testing the mane brush after doing what I thought was ‘a good job’ with our ‘old’ mane brush, it was -“Oh heck, it wasn’t so good after all”, this Wahl brush, with its longer ‘bristles’ really sorted out a thick mane properly. The hoof pick, with its larger, flatter and better shaped blade also came out top, very efficiently getting into places others couldn’t reach and removing mud off the hoof wall more efficiently.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - Sedgwick – Leathercare - The company says: Contains only natural ingredients, including tallow, oils and beeswax. Simply give tack/leather a quick wipe over with a damp sponge or cloth, leave to dry naturally and then apply the leather dressing sparingly, to both the grain and flesh side of the leather. When dry, usually after two hours, buff the leather with a soft brush or cloth. RRP: around £4.50 (65ml) and £15.00 (500ml). www.abbeyengland.com
Our tester, Maria Phillips, says: Made solely from natural ingredients this is a must for any type of leathercare. Initially I used it on my saddles and bridles, carefully removing any dust and grease of them first. It left them soft and supple after each application and helped repel the rain. I also tested it on my leather furniture in the house which, as if by magic, came back to life and minor marks and scratches disappeared. As only small amounts are required a small pot went a long way. Best kept in a room temperature environment as if in a cold place it does tend to solidify. Excellent leathercare product.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - Wahl – Showman Easy Groom Detangler - The company says: The perfect solution for dealing with matted and tangled hair. Works effectively to separate and condition hair without pulling, perfect for use on coarse hair, such as mane and tail, and you can be sure to tackle tangled tails and knotty, windswept manes with ease! Containing vitamins A, D and E, alongside plant proteins and mineral oil, it can be left in the hair for increased effectiveness and is silicone free, meaning that you won’t be left to deal with any stickiness or slippery residue post groom. RRP: £8.19 (500ml spray) or £26.99 (3.8litrs bottle). www.wahl.co.uk
Our tester, Pippa Hahn, says: I used this on all my horses’ tails to good effect. It is not the slipperiest of detanglers, but it leaves a shine on the tails which seemed to last for days. I really liked it as it didn't leave my hands coated in slippery film if I inadvertently touched the tail whilst at a competition! It also appeared to add body to the tail.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - Moorland Rider - Horsewear Wash & Brush Bags - The company says: Wash Bag – makes washing dirty, hairy horse kit in a domestic washing machine easy without the risk of clogging up the filter (or covering subsequent loads in hair!). The fabric bag acts as a filtration system allowing water and detergent to pass through the bag to wash the products within, while preventing hair escaping. Ideal for a range of products including boots, numnahs, bandages, lightweight rugs etc. Orange, Green, Black and White. Three Sizes. RRP: from £8.95. Brush Bag – The easy way to wash brushes at home. A padded, easy to use bag created to allow synthetic grooming brushes to be washed in a domestic washing machine. With specialist foam padding to help protect the washing machine’s drum, it keeps loose horse hair inside the bag during the cycle, to keep the filter and drum hair free. Can also be used for lead ropes, fillet strings and other small items with metal elements. Orange. One Size. RRP: £12.95. www.moorlandrider.co.uk
Our tester, Pam Harrison, says: As the 'ultimate' test I washed two extremely hairy full size numnahs in the generously sized Wash Bag and they came out completely clean without needing extra detergent. All the hair - and there was a lot as the stallions aren't clipped - stayed in the bag and blew away when I hung it out to dry inside out. Brilliant, as I hate cleaning hair out of the washing machine, particularly around the door seal! The Brush Bag is smaller and padded but brushes come out clean and there's no clanging and banging during the wash. Again any hair stays in the bag. If you wash anything in your domestic machine, you absolutely need these.
VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - Horseware - Rambo Newmarket Grooming Kit - The company says: An extremely durable high quality tote bag with the Newmarket branding as a smart trim; two attached carry handles with a detachable longer shoulder strap; and plenty of side pockets for extra storage. Contains: sweat scraper, face brush, body brush, dandy brush, main & tail brush, hoof pick and curry comb. RRP: £35.00. www.horseware.com
Our tester, Chris Grant, says: This grooming bag is very robust, being made from heavy duty material. Well put together with a great design including lots of pockets around the outside to keep all your essential show applications in. A separate zipped pocket on the inside and outside also ensure there is somewhere safe and dry for cameras and keys. The other great asset is it's waterproof along with a drawstring top so keeps everything dry on a wet day. The accompanying matching brushes are of very good quality, light to hold in the hand with comfortable rubber grips. A great selection of all the brushes you would need, all matching the attractive Newmarket colours of the bag itself. Very smart and super for away days.
VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - KBF99 – Long Fibre Dandy Brush - The company says: Anti-bacterial grooming products clinically proven to kill bacteria and fungus without the use of chemicals. These revolutionary brushes and grooming tools are made with the KBF99 additive incorporated, which was tested at Coventry University and effectively killed 99.99% of the bacteria/fungus test culture (Strangles, Ringworm and E.Coli). Customers have also reported excellent results against Mud Fever, Rain Scald, Scurf and Thrush (see website for more details). In addition when used regularly, the grooming products improve bio-security. Red, Blue, Purple, Pink & Black. RRP: £14.99. www.kbf99.co.uk
Our tester, John Collier, says: Well, I read the packaging and couldn’t fail to be impressed by the claims to reduce bacterial and fungal infection. It’s very stylish and comfortable to hold and use. The bristles are effective for a dandy brush, and it performs well. My part-bred eventer enjoyed it being used on him, as the bristles are not too stiff. All in all a good addition to any grooming kit with the big advantage of potentially improving your horse’s health. The claims have been scientifically tested and I think over time, I will build up a full grooming kit of these brushes, they have got to be a good thing.
VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - LeMieux - Grooming Bag - The company says: Strong waterproof denier nylon outer. Numerous pockets and inner compartments with a secure zip top and choice of grab handles or adjustable shoulder strap. If it needs transporting this is the bag. Smart addition to anyone’s travelling kit or just around the yard. Burgundy & Blue. RRP: £29.95. www.horsehealth.co.uk
Our tester, Val Williams, says: Just love it !! Waterproof and strong to start with, easy to carry as you can grab the handles or use the shoulder strap. Numerous compartments all around the outside, a mesh compartment on the outside (ideal for a mobile phone), two zipped compartments, one inside and one outside, and a secure zip top. The top is padded and the zipped compartment inside also has a plastic holder for showing cards so never forgotten and also two pen holders. The handles are made of a very strong webbing so can take a considerable amount of weight. Have to say the design of this bag is really excellent and I can’t recommend it enough. Just can’t wait for our first show to use it in public!!
VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - Top Zop - Plaiting Comb - The company says: A real must for plaiting. Its great function allows you to keep the mane under control while you concentrate on making your plaits neat. The comb is also great to measure each section of mane to get equal size plaits, and even has a clip and rubber band holder built in on the end so your hands are free to create the perfect plaits! RRP: £9.95. www.horsehealth.co.uk
Our tester, Val Williams, says: Such a great idea and I can’t think why it hasn't been thought of before. It is strong so will go through a very tangled mane with ease and the handle is big enough to hold. When plaiting in the past it’s always been such a nuisance picking up and putting down a mane comb, and if you try to put one in a thick mane to keep the hair out of the way it always drops out. The teeth on this one, which are on a spring, are superb and keep the mane completely out of the way while plaiting and then, hey presto, there is the mane comb to go on with the next plait. One of our horses here has a really thick mane and it's difficult to plait - this plaiting comb has just made it so easy. Fabulous, simply fabulous!!
VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - EQyss - Premier Cream Rinse & Detangler - The company says: Developed specifically to condition rough, dry, brittle hair and make tangles disappear. A rich combination of natural conditioning agents minimise flyaway hair, leaving it soft and tangle free. No need to rinse shampoo before application - it can be used straight on top, making bathing quick and easy. Ideal for use on horses with dry, flaky skin having very effective moisturising properties. A water based product so can be diluted for spray use as an all over body conditioner, great for recently clipped coats. RRP: £10.50 (16oz). www.horsehealth.co.uk
Our tester, Sally Burns, says: I covered the tail with this after washing and left it on for a few minutes. I admit to being rather shocked as, when washed off, the tail was tangle free and once dry was easy to brush without splitting the hair. Product information says it can be used as a spray conditioner especially after clipping, so I will be trying that as well. This is the best horse conditioner I have ever used as I normally buy human conditioners.
VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - EQyss - Premier Shampoo - The company says: Does not contain any wax, oil, petroleum by-products, silicone or synthetic polymers, therefore leaving the shaft of the hair completely clean from residue. It will not clog the skin pores, allowing the skin to breathe. Removes harsh detergents, toxins and medications from the coat that can cause damage to the hair and follicles. The revolutionary formula contains specific ingredients and vitamins that restore moisture, balance and strength, producing a nourished and healthy glow to the coat. Rinses out easily. RRP: £18.50 (32oz). www.horsehealth.co.uk
Our tester, Sally Burns, says: I was not aware of this brand before so was interested to see how it stood up to trial. I used it on two horses, of different colours, one black and the other chestnut. The coats of both horses’ coats came up lovely and shiny after using the shampoo and I was delighted to see that there was no dandruff, or remaining residue, left behind on the coat once it was dry. It has a really attractive smell and you don't need much on the coat or sponge to wash the horse with, so will be long-lasting too. I have to admit to being very impressed and will be looking out for the range in future.
VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - Pest Away - Body Wash - The company says: 100% natural body wash which thoroughly cleans and removes unwanted guests, including Chorioptic Mite and Lice, without the need to rinse. Stops itching, calms and soothes irritated and bitten areas by penetrating deep into the hair and coat. Regular use will helps to soften dry areas, remove scurf and maintain a healthy skin, hair and coat. RRP: £7.49 (400ml); £14.49 (1litre). www.flyaway.ltd.uk
Our tester, Denise Richardson, says: This is presented in an easy to open and use plastic bottle, has good, clear labelling and easy to follow instructions, making it very handy to use. I used it on my stallion Maali and I found it easy, as it produces a small amount of soap suds, smells nice, not too strong!! It cleaned well, working through the coat, and was easy to rinse off leaving his coat clean and shining. Contains elements which are proven pest controllers for lice etc, what a great idea and seems to be very effective. I will be using the wash on my young horses too! Great to have in your grooming box, it’ll stay in mine.
VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - HySHINE - Pro Grooming Brushes - The company says: A fabulous complete set of eye-catching brushes, with ergonomic handles to put the fun back into grooming! With a two tone soft touch handle for added comfort, and coloured bristles too, these are the perfect choice to have at the stables. The range includes: Long Bristle Dandy Brush, Body Brush, Mane & Tail Brush, Dandy & Face Brush, Goat Hair Body Brush, Hoof & Bucket Brush, Hoof Pick, Comb, Sweat Scraper, Sponge Brush. Navy/Orange; Grey/Pink; Navy/Light Blue. RRP: from £1.00 - £6.40. www.Hy-Equestrian.com
Our tester, Rob Williams, says: Well when these arrived I couldn’t imagine how they'd be any different. How wrong was I!! They are a super range for turnout to a high standard. To explain, there are two types of Dandy Brush one short haired which really lifted loose hair and grease, one long haired which totally flicked away excess hair, a strong mane and tail brush with a good rubber handle – always necessary, a rubber handled hoof pick which makes it easy to grip, a small rubber backed face brush which worked wonderfully well, a brush with sponge in the centre and bristles around the outside to help remove dirt, a body brush and finally a soft goat hair brush to give the final shine which it certainly does. All these brushes have a rubber backed so easy to handle and we are all totally hooked on them!!
VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED - Groom Away - Citronella Body Wash: - The company says: A mix of versatile and effective natural remedies, successfully used for thousands of years, including a blend of rare organic citronella, essential oils which together purify, cleanse and deodorise. Your horse will benefit from analgesic, antimicrobial, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, bactericidal, deodorising, fungicidal and insecticidal properties; all of which offer many medicinal advantages. A high concentration of Vitamin A and Citral work with your horse’s immune system to stimulate blood circulation, encouraging an overall toning effect on the body whilst balancing, moisturising and nourishing the skin. Also offers an unprecedented natural protection against biting and stinging insects. RRP: £6.49 (400ml). www.flyaway.ltd.uk
Our tester, Chris Grant, says: I have been most impressed with this. I used it on a hairy unclipped pony, which had been worked on a warm day and was consequently very sticky with dirty sweat marks. Only a small amount of body wash was needed and it did not make the water oily or greasy but in fact was very soft. Used with a sponge, it immediately lifted away the dirt and sweat without having to scrub. It has a very pleasant citronella fragrance and I applied it all over the body, including over the mane and tail. As it was a warm day, I allowed the pony to dry naturally and what was further impressive was the super texture of the coat once dry even though no rinsing was required- Bonus! Definitely a product I would buy again.
You can buy a copy of the May issue of Equine securely online at - www.farmnequine.co.uk/shop
