Mane Styling REPLY SOON!!!

I'm not for sure but I think most western type shows, the mane is left unbraided, justt brushed and neat.

Isn't it pretty standard to pull or trim and band a mane for those classes? I don't know if a running french braid would be allowed. If there is no requirement on how to style it, I would either do the running braid or just leave it loose.

Actually, a few WP riders are leaving long manes if the horse can pull it off (ie: Has an awesome neck). I would say french braid it, or band it as usual - and leave it long if you want, bands will just keep it from flying everywhere.

I have shown in pleasure for a long time and in all my years its been short (a hand width in length) and banded if you want to look really put together.
http://www.therideronline.co.uk/wp-c.../IMG_16261.jpg

I think either band it, diamond braid it or slick it down so it stays flat on her neck. I don't think french braids are used in western classes.

Here is a palomino being shown with a natural mane in bands:

Braiding is usually acceptable at the local level for both disciplines because of the cross over possibility.

I know you love your horses mane but pulling it and banding it is the correct way to show western pleasure and showmanship.Especially if your horses mane is thin or uneven at all. Just don't CUT IT. If you don't know how to pull have somebody show you. Its hair, it will grow back.

Short and banded like other have said