5 Tips on How to Achieve the Perfect Clip

by Tiffany McDermott

Ever wonder how you can clip a horse and make it look so natural? If you’re new to clipping or are just trying to master the art of it, here are 5 tips to help achieve the perfect clip job!

1. Start with a clean horse

A clean horse is the most important step to your perfect clip! Giving your horse a good bath before clipping will remove excess hair, dirt and sweat that may have built up on the skin that can cause uneven clip lines, dull your blades faster and could even damage your clippers. If you can’t bathe your horse, find a good waterless shampoo and give them a good curry scrub instead! (Always make sure your horse is completely dry before starting your clip)!

2. Using the right clippers

Using the right clippers for the clip you’re trying to achieve will help create a smooth look with minimal lines. My favorite for large surface areas like the body & neck are the Lister Star clippers. These have a wide blade that will cover the most surface area per swipe, creating a smooth look that blends the hair. The goal is to make as little tracks as possible, and try to make long lines that remain consistent in pressure to avoid a ‘patchy’ look. Always start with a sharp blade to help create even lines and apply consistent pressure to make sure the hair length remains even throughout the clip. For the legs and face, I prefer a smaller, quieter pair of clippers that can get into the little nooks around the horse.

3) Blend, blend, blend!

Horses often have hair whorls, corse patches, etc. that may cause an inconsistent hair grab. To help blend out those areas, move your clippers in different directions, towards and against the hair, to blend out any irregular areas that will help smooth out your path. You can use a combination of different sized clippers to help areas blend together for a seamless look.

4) Care for your clippers

Clippers require maintenance throughout your clipping time that will not only help you achieve a flawless clip, but to protect the longevity of your clippers. Make sure to have plenty of clipper oil on hand to lubricate your blades throughout your clip. Clippers also tend to get warm when used for long periods of time, so make sure to periodically touch your blade to make sure it will not burn your horses skin. When your clippers start to heat up, apply Cool Lube spray to help them cool off to a skin safe temperature.

5) Aftercare

After your horse is clipped, take a stiff brush and brush off any residual hair left on the coat. I like to then take a damp rag with water or witch hazel and wipe down my horse. This will help pick up dander and any itchy, prickly hairs left behind. I also love to give my horse a brush down with Coat Defense powder to soothe any skin irritation that may have occurred during your clip.

About Tiffany

Tiffany McDermott is a professional Event rider and trainer out of NE Ohio. She has a passion for developing young horses, sales, and helping each client reach their individual goals with their horses. She is also the owner of small business: The Equine Candle Co.

IG: @intheironsblog

Tiktok: @tiffanyann7117