mane braiding ?

What side does every braid their horses mane on, & how many braids do you put in ?

Im talking about hunter or button braids, not running braids

I think that the traditionally correct side to braid the mane on is the right side (right from the back of the horse, not looking at them head-on). I've always done around 30-40 braids- it's less for dressage (that's what I've heard and seen) and generally more for hunters.

Right side, around 30 braids.

For typical english rossettes its 9-13 on the right side ;) btw...... are you showing hunter this year with Gyps?

For hunters-as many braids as you can fit. And on the right side. For eventing or showjumping it would be less. Make sure you have an even number of braids(including the forelock)

Tradition says to braid on the right, especially for hunters.

I event and have anywhere from 11-15 braids.

Mares get an even number of braids, stallions and geldings get an odd number.

Make them a nice size, about 1.5cm diameter I find is nice. And sew them in, Im going to make a video on how to sew in plait nicely.

Not the best, cause it was only my second time doing it hahhaa

Those really aren't bad at all charliBum... I personally like mine to sit out and up a bit more..... have to take some pics when I next do some... :) a video is a great idea- especially to help those who have never done their own before

When need some extra cash, I also groom for the riders where I board.
Back when I was taught to braid, I was taught its an even number including the forelock.
I don't sew my braids in but I find that they stay in quite well. I find the braids turn out neater if you start off by banding them first. And always make sure the part is straight in between braids, you don't want it to look mish-mashed and bodgy.

Most of the horses I braid have about 10-16 braids including the forelock. I think the best tip I can tell you is to braid to make the neck look good.


I've never braided for a hunter, but from the researching (googling) I just did, the more the better.

30 - 40?!? How thick is your horse's mane?!?

Traditionally you're supposed to put 7 plaits in the mane, which is about all I'd be able to do in my horse's mane since someone decided to pull it without my knowledge or consent