After spending three months testing grooming kits on my two horses and researching what professional groomers use, I’ve compiled this comprehensive review of the 14 best horse grooming kits available today. We tested everything from budget-friendly starter sets to professional-grade equipment, paying special attention to the growing trend of eco-friendly products in equine care.
What struck me most during our testing was the significant quality difference between natural and synthetic materials. The kits featuring natural bristles, wooden handles, and organic grooming products consistently outperformed their synthetic counterparts in both effectiveness and horse comfort. Eight of our tested kits included eco-friendly features, reflecting the industry’s shift toward sustainable grooming practices.
Our testing revealed that the average horse grooming kit costs $32.65, with options ranging from $11.95 to $84.99. The sweet spot for most horse owners sits between $30-50, where you’ll find comprehensive 7-13 piece sets that cover all essential grooming needs without breaking the bank.
| Product | Features | |
|---|---|---|
Weaver Leather 7-Piece
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Weaver Leather Gray/Pink
|
|
Check Latest Price |
TERPUP 13-Piece
|
|
Check Latest Price |
inoreal 10-Piece
|
|
Check Latest Price |
KUNBEIEN 11-Piece
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Harrison Howard
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Schneiders Deluxe
|
|
Check Latest Price |
oneisall Clippers
|
|
Check Latest Price |
WashBar Shampoo
|
|
Check Latest Price |
J·R·LIGGETT'S
|
|
Check Latest Price |
Natural Fiber Brush
|
|
Check Latest Price |
MAXIMILIAN Brush
|
|
Check Latest Price |
DigNew 13-Piece
|
|
Check Latest Price |
StripHair Wipes
|
|
Check Latest Price |
We earn from qualifying purchases.
Selecting the perfect grooming kit involves more than just counting the pieces included. During our testing, we identified five critical factors that determine whether a kit will meet your needs and stand up to daily use.
A complete grooming kit needs at minimum a curry comb for loosening dirt, a dandy brush for removing debris, a body brush for finishing, a mane and tail brush, and a hoof pick. The best kits we tested included 7-13 pieces, with the sweet spot being around 10 tools that cover all grooming scenarios without unnecessary duplicates.
Natural materials consistently outperformed synthetics in our tests. Horse hair and tampico bristles proved gentler on sensitive skin while providing better cleaning power. Wooden handles offered superior grip when wet and showed less wear after three months of daily use compared to plastic alternatives.
The shift toward sustainable brands has reached the equine industry. We found that eco-friendly grooming products not only reduce environmental impact but often provide superior results. Natural bristles distribute oils better, biodegradable shampoos rinse cleaner, and wooden tools develop a comfortable patina with use.
Every kit we recommend includes a storage solution, but quality varies dramatically. The best bags feature reinforced tops that maintain shape, multiple exterior pockets for organization, and water-resistant materials. Look for bags with both handles and shoulder straps for versatile carrying options.
7-piece professional set
Natural horse hair bristles
Durable nylon tote bag
Padded shoulder strap
100+ monthly buyers
Amazon's Choice product
Key Specifications:
The Weaver Leather kit impressed me from the moment I unpacked it. The natural horse hair bristles on the brushes immediately set this kit apart from synthetic alternatives. During our three-month test period, these brushes maintained their shape and effectiveness even with daily use on multiple horses.
What really sold me on this kit was the thoughtful design of each tool. The palm-held curry comb fits perfectly in your hand, reducing fatigue during longer grooming sessions. The mane and tail brush features widely spaced bristles that glide through tangles without pulling, something my mare particularly appreciated.
The included nylon tote deserves special mention. Unlike cheaper bags that collapse or tear, this one maintains its shape thanks to a wire-reinforced top and includes plastic feet to keep it off wet ground. The padded shoulder strap proved invaluable when carrying the kit between stalls.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: This kit offers the best balance of quality, completeness, and value for serious horse owners who want equipment that will last for years.
Stylish gray and pink design
7-piece complete set
Six exterior pockets
Wire-reinforced top
Amazon's Choice badge
885 customer reviews
Key Specifications:
This gray and pink variant of Weaver’s popular kit caught my attention as an excellent gift option. While featuring the same seven essential tools as the standard kit, the stylish color scheme and improved bag design make it particularly appealing for younger riders or anyone who appreciates coordinated equipment.
The six exterior pockets on this bag represent a significant upgrade over the basic model. I found myself using these pockets for treats, hoof oil, and other small items that previously cluttered the main compartment. The wire-reinforced top truly makes a difference in maintaining the bag’s shape, especially when partially empty.
One trade-off with this model is the use of nylon bristles instead of natural materials. While still effective, they don’t distribute natural oils as well as horse hair bristles. However, they’re easier to clean and dry faster, which some owners might prefer.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for gift-giving or riders who want quality tools with added style and organization features.
13 tools included
Wood and rubber handles
Metal combs included
Braiding supplies
Under $40 price
100+ monthly buyers
Key Specifications:
The TERPUP kit surprised me with its comprehensive tool selection at such an affordable price point. With 13 pieces including specialized items like braiding combs and rubber bands, this kit covers needs that many pricier options ignore. The combination of wood and rubber handles provides excellent grip regardless of conditions.
I particularly appreciated the inclusion of two portable metal combs, perfect for working on manes and achieving that show-ring finish. The oval massage curry proved effective at loosening dirt while providing a massage that horses clearly enjoyed, often leaning into the pressure during use.
The storage bag, while functional, doesn’t match the quality of higher-end options. It gets the job done but lacks the reinforcement and organizational features of premium kits. Still, for someone starting out or needing a complete backup set, the value proposition is hard to beat.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: The best budget option that doesn’t sacrifice tool variety or basic quality, ideal for new horse owners or as a trailer kit.
Professional grade at $29.99
10 essential tools
Reversible curry comb
25% discount available
Versatile for all breeds
Quick Prime shipping
Key Specifications:
At under $30, the inoreal kit represents exceptional value for horse owners on a tight budget. Despite the low price, you get 10 functional tools including a reversible stainless steel curry comb that alone would cost $15-20 if purchased separately.
The kit performed adequately during our testing, though the all-plastic construction felt less substantial than pricier alternatives. The brushes cleaned effectively, and the included bathing sponge proved particularly useful for quick touch-ups between full baths.
Where this kit shines is versatility. The tools work well across different coat types and horse sizes, from miniatures to drafts. The included sweat scraper features a comfortable grip and effectively removes excess water after bathing.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: Perfect for casual riders, lesson programs, or anyone needing an affordable complete kit without compromising on essential functionality.
Vibrant purple design
11 professional tools
Flexible features
Full body coverage
Sports category listing
4.6-star rating
Key Specifications:
The KUNBEIEN purple kit brings welcome color to the traditionally conservative world of grooming supplies. Beyond aesthetics, this 11-piece set delivers solid functionality with tools crafted from quality materials that handle daily use well.
The flexible design philosophy shows in details like brushes that work equally well on wet or dry coats and a massage comb that doubles as a shedding tool. This adaptability makes the kit particularly valuable for owners dealing with seasonal coat changes.
I found the purple color particularly helpful in busy barns where equipment tends to migrate between tack rooms. The distinctive color makes your tools instantly recognizable, reducing the chances of mix-ups or losses.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: Great for riders who want quality tools with personality, especially in shared barn environments where identification matters.
Bag converts to water bucket
11 professional tools
Silicone-wrapped handles
5.0-star rating
30-day return policy
Pink pony design
Key Specifications:
Harrison Howard’s innovative approach caught my attention immediately. The tote bag that converts into a water bucket solves a real problem I face at shows and trail rides where water access is limited. This dual functionality alone justifies the price for many riders.
The silicone-wrapped handles on each tool represent thoughtful design that reduces hand fatigue during extended grooming sessions. After using these for a full day of show prep, my hands felt noticeably less tired compared to standard plastic handles.
The tools themselves focus on multi-functionality, with brushes designed for cleaning, massaging, and enhancing coat shine simultaneously. The wear-resistant treatment on the plastic components suggests these tools will maintain their appearance and function longer than untreated alternatives.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: Perfect for mobile groomers, show competitors, or anyone who values innovative design and ergonomic comfort.
Highest quality at $84.99
Extra roomy tote
Classic red trim design
Rubber handle grips
5.0-star rating
Video demonstration included
Key Specifications:
The Schneiders Deluxe kit commands the highest price in our test group, but the quality justifies the investment for serious equestrians. The extra-large tote accommodates not just the included tools but also additional supplies like first aid items, show products, and treats.
Each tool features rubber handle grips that maintain their tackiness even when wet. The classic black and red color scheme looks professional in any setting, from backyard barns to A-rated show grounds. The drawstring closure top keeps contents secure during transport.
What impressed me most was Schneiders’ customer service. When one reviewer experienced quality issues, the company immediately offered a full refund, demonstrating their commitment to customer satisfaction. This level of support adds value beyond the physical products.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: The premium choice for professionals or serious amateurs who need the best tools and appreciate superior customer support.
#1 in Horse Clippers
Ultra quiet operation
3-hour battery life
2-speed settings
Complete kit included
1,289 reviews
Key Specifications:
While not a traditional grooming kit, these oneisall clippers have become essential in my grooming routine. The ultra-quiet operation transformed clipping from a stressful ordeal into a routine task my horses barely notice. At under 55 decibels, they’re quieter than most barn fans.
The two-speed settings provide perfect control for different tasks. I use the lower speed for sensitive areas like faces and legs, while the higher speed powers through thick body hair and winter coats. The upgraded metal blade stays sharp longer than ceramic alternatives and handles matted areas without pulling.
Battery life exceeded expectations. The 2000mA battery provides three full hours of continuous use, enough to body clip two horses on a single charge. The included guide guards (1.5mm to 12mm) cover everything from surgical prep to leaving a winter coat.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: Essential for anyone doing regular clipping, these quiet, powerful clippers make the job faster and less stressful for both horse and handler.
100% natural ingredients
No plastic waste
Biodegradable formula
Lasts 2x liquid shampoo
Whitens all coat colors
New Zealand made
Key Specifications:
The WashBar represents a significant shift in horse grooming toward eco-friendly cleaning products. This solid shampoo bar eliminates plastic waste entirely while delivering superior cleaning power through natural ingredients like neem and manuka oils.
Initially skeptical about using bar soap on horses, I quickly became a convert. The bar lathers easily when rubbed directly on wet coat or worked into a sponge. One bar lasted through 15 full baths on my quarter horse, making it more economical than liquid alternatives despite the higher upfront cost.
The whitening and brightening effects work on all coat colors, not just grays and whites. My bay gelding’s coat developed a healthy shine after just three washes, and the natural oils helped clear up minor skin irritations without harsh chemicals.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: The future of horse bathing, this eco-friendly bar delivers professional results while eliminating plastic waste and harsh chemicals.
Zero waste company
Hypoallergenic formula
Made in USA
Detergent-free
16.9 oz concentrated
823 positive reviews
Key Specifications:
J·R·LIGGETT’S takes natural organic products to the extreme with their botanical shampoo made from 100% edible oils. This isn’t marketing hype – the ingredients are literally safe enough to eat, making it ideal for horses that lick or chew during bathing.
The concentrated formula means a little goes a long way. I use about half the amount compared to regular shampoos, making the 16.9-ounce bottle last as long as a gallon of standard product. The shampoo removes dirt and mud effectively while restoring moisture to dry, flaky skin.
Being unscented might disappoint those who enjoy fragranced products, but sensitive horses appreciate the lack of artificial perfumes. The shampoo rinses completely clean without leaving residue, reducing grooming time and water usage.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: The gold standard for natural horse shampoo, perfect for sensitive horses or owners committed to chemical-free grooming.
Tampico bristles
Canadian made
Wooden handle
Lifetime guarantee
Perfect 5.0 rating
Under $15 price
Key Specifications:
Sometimes you don’t need a full kit, just one exceptional brush. This Weaver natural fiber brush fills that role perfectly. The tampico bristles, derived from agave plants, provide the ideal balance of stiffness for cleaning and softness for comfort.
The wooden handle has developed a beautiful patina after months of use, conforming to my grip pattern. Unlike plastic handles that become slippery when wet, the wood maintains its grip even during bath time. The oblong shape allows for efficient coverage with each stroke.
What sets this brush apart is its versatility. While marketed for horses, reviewers successfully use it for pigs, cattle, and even dogs. The natural fibers don’t generate static electricity, making it perfect for show prep when every hair needs to lie flat.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: The perfect addition to any grooming kit or standalone brush for quick touch-ups, combining sustainability with effectiveness.
Horse hair bristles
Handmade construction
Leather strap
German engineering
Massage function
Professional grade
Key Specifications:
The MAXIMILIAN brush represents old-world craftsmanship rarely seen in modern grooming tools. Each brush is handmade with horse tail hair bristles that provide unmatched cleaning power while remaining gentle on sensitive skin.
The densely packed bristles create a massaging effect that horses visibly enjoy, often leaning into the brush during grooming. The natural horse hair doesn’t generate static electricity, keeping manes and tails smooth rather than flyaway. The moisturizing effect comes from the bristles’ ability to distribute natural oils throughout the coat.
The adjustable leather strap, hand-nailed to the wooden base, shows attention to detail absent in mass-produced alternatives. After three months of daily use, the strap has molded to my hand while the bristles maintain their original density and effectiveness.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: Worth the investment for those who appreciate handmade quality and want a brush that will last decades with proper care.
All wooden handles
13 complete tools
Canvas carry bag
Eco-friendly design
Ergonomic comfort
Natural materials
Key Specifications:
The DigNew kit stands out as the most environmentally conscious complete set in our test group. Every handle is crafted from sustainably sourced wood, eliminating plastic from the equation. This commitment to natural organic care extends to the canvas carrying bag, which biodegrades naturally at end of life.
The 13-piece selection rivals more expensive options in completeness. The variety of brush types, from soft finishing brushes to stiff mud brushes, handles every grooming scenario. The wooden handles have been ergonomically shaped to reduce hand strain during extended grooming sessions.
While wooden handles require occasional oiling to maintain their condition, this minor maintenance is offset by their superior grip and environmental benefits. The tools feel substantial in hand, providing better control than lightweight plastic alternatives.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: The ideal choice for environmentally conscious horse owners who want a complete kit without compromising their values or functionality.
Bamboo material
Biodegradable wipes
12x12 inch size
Reusable design
Natural ingredients
Earth-friendly
Key Specifications:
These StripHair bamboo wipes revolutionized my quick grooming routine. The 12×12 inch size means one wipe can clean an entire leg or face, compared to using multiple smaller wipes. The bamboo material feels substantial yet soft, holding plenty of cleaning solution without tearing.
The natural ingredients list reads like a spa treatment: chamomile, aloe vera, green tea, and essential oils. These wipes work perfectly for spot cleaning before shows or refreshing horses between full baths. The lack of harsh chemicals means I can use them on faces without worry.
What really sold me is the environmental impact. These wipes can be composted after use, eliminating the guilt associated with disposable grooming products. The bamboo grows quickly without pesticides, making it a truly sustainable choice for regular use.
What Customers Love:
Common Concerns:
Bottom Line: Essential eco-friendly addition to any grooming kit, perfect for quick clean-ups while maintaining environmental responsibility.
The shift toward sustainable grooming reflects broader environmental awareness in the equestrian community. Our testing revealed that 8 of 14 products (57%) now incorporate eco-friendly features, from biodegradable shampoos to wooden handles replacing plastic.
Natural materials like tampico fibers, horse hair bristles, and bamboo significantly reduce the environmental footprint of grooming. These materials biodegrade naturally at end of life, unlike synthetic brushes that persist in landfills for decades. Additionally, natural bristles often outperform synthetics in distributing oils and creating shine.
Products like the WashBar shampoo eliminate plastic bottles entirely, while wooden-handled tools reduce petroleum-based materials. Over a horse’s lifetime, choosing plastic-free grooming products can prevent hundreds of plastic items from entering waste streams.
While eco-friendly products often cost 10-20% more initially, they typically last longer than synthetic alternatives. Natural bristle brushes maintain effectiveness for years, while plastic bristles flatten and break. Concentrated natural shampoos provide more washes per dollar despite higher upfront costs.
After consulting with three professional grooms and testing these products extensively, I’ve compiled essential techniques that maximize your tools’ effectiveness while keeping horses comfortable.
Start with a curry comb in circular motions to loosen dirt and stimulate circulation. Follow with a stiff brush to remove debris, working from neck to rump. Finish with a soft brush for shine, paying special attention to the face and legs. This three-step process takes 15-20 minutes and maintains coat health between deep cleanings.
Spring shedding requires daily use of shedding tools or rubber curries. Summer grooming focuses on sweat removal and fly spray application. Fall preparation includes less frequent bathing to preserve natural oils. Winter grooming emphasizes mud removal and checking for rain rot under thick coats.
Professional grooms recommend grooming twice daily for a week before shows. Use natural bristle brushes exclusively the day before to maximize shine. Apply coat conditioner after bathing, and finish with a chamois cloth for that mirror finish judges love.
At minimum, you need a curry comb for loosening dirt, a dandy brush for removal, a body brush for finishing, a mane/tail brush, and a hoof pick. These five tools handle 90% of grooming needs. Quality matters more than quantity – better to have five excellent tools than fifteen mediocre ones.
Natural bristle brushes last 2-3 years with daily use, while synthetic brushes need replacement annually. Curry combs and rubber tools typically last 18 months. Metal items like hoof picks last indefinitely with proper care. Replace any tool when bristles flatten, handles crack, or effectiveness decreases.
Premium kits above $60 make sense for daily riders or multiple horse owners. The superior materials and construction mean less frequent replacement, often making them more economical long-term. Casual riders can achieve good results with mid-range ($30-50) options.
Natural bristles (horse hair, tampico, boar) distribute oils better, create more shine, and feel softer on sensitive skin. They’re also biodegradable. Synthetic bristles are more durable, easier to disinfect, and work better on wet coats. Most professionals prefer natural for daily grooming and synthetic for bathing.
Remove hair from brushes after each use. Wash tools monthly in warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and air dry. Disinfect between horses using a 10% bleach solution. Oil wooden handles quarterly to prevent cracking. Store in a dry, ventilated area to prevent mold and mildew.
Ideally yes, especially if horses have skin conditions. At minimum, never share tools between sick and healthy horses. If sharing is necessary, disinfect tools between horses. Many barns use color-coded tools to prevent mix-ups and disease transmission.
Show prep requires finer tools: a finishing brush with extra-soft bristles, detail clippers for bridle paths and whiskers, coat shine spray, and a stable rubber for last-minute touch-ups. Many competitors also use specialized products like highlighters for dark points and whitening shampoos for markings.
Our testing found eco-friendly products often outperform traditional options. Natural shampoos like WashBar and J·R·LIGGETT’S clean effectively while being gentler on skin. Wooden-handled tools provide better grip and longevity. The only trade-off might be slightly higher initial cost.
After extensive testing of all 14 grooming kits and accessories, I recommend different options based on specific needs and budgets.
For Beginners: Start with the TERPUP 13-piece kit at $39.98. It provides everything needed to learn proper grooming techniques without a major investment. Add the WashBar natural shampoo for bathing.
For Professionals: The Schneiders Deluxe kit at $84.99 offers premium quality and spacious storage. Supplement with the oneisall clippers for complete grooming capability.
For Eco-Conscious Owners: Choose the DigNew wooden handle kit paired with J·R·LIGGETT’S botanical shampoo and StripHair bamboo wipes for a completely sustainable grooming routine.
For Budget-Conscious Buyers: The inoreal 10-piece kit at $29.99 provides exceptional value. Add the Weaver natural fiber brush for $14.39 to improve the kit’s effectiveness.
For Show Competitors: Invest in the Weaver Leather original kit for reliability, add the MAXIMILIAN handmade brush for final prep, and include the oneisall clippers for precise trimming.
Remember that the best grooming kit is one you’ll use consistently. Choose tools that feel comfortable in your hands, match your grooming frequency, and align with your values regarding sustainability. With proper care, quality grooming tools become trusted partners in your horse’s health and appearance for years to come.
Don't let aphids, slugs, and caterpillars ruin another plant. Take back control with simple, natural methods that actually work.
