Choosing The Best Tail Extension

Trophy Tails come in different weights, lengths, connection styles and colors. Our selection of tail extensions has been designed to fit almost any tail correction or enhancement need. To simplify the selection process, we have assembled information on each of these variables. Use the links on this page to get additional information to assist you in making your tail extension selection.

We also recommend that you consult your trainer, braider or groomer for their input when selecting an extension. This is particularily important if someone other than yourself will be doing the installation. Different tail extensions can provide the same result on an individual horse. Many times the final selection comes down to previous experience or personal preference.

Weight

Trophy Tails are available in standard one pound and half pound weights. Unlike some tail extensions, our one pound tails REALLY do weigh a full pound. Our one pound tails come standard 36 inches long and our half pound tails come standard 35 inches long. While the half pound Trophy Tails are 35 inches long, they are more tapered then our one pound blunt cut tails and therefore weigh only half as much.

One pound tails are a great choice for a really full look. Most western pleasure horses use a one pound tail. Many dressage horses use one pound tails to achieve that full banged look. Typically one pound tails look too overwhelming on young horses. For lunge line horses and younger halter horses, a half pound tail is a better choice. Hunters who are looking for some general fill also usually choose a half pound tail. These are general guidelines, as all horses are different, and all owner tastes vary!

Length

Our one pound tails come standard 36 inches long and our half pound tails come standard 35 inches long. This is typically much longer than is required on most horses, but we give you the most hair we can for your money, knowing that you can trim down to a PERFECT fit. Remember, you can always trim, but you can’t add!

To illustrate length, our 16.1 hand molly mule, Too Tall Tilly, is pictured here wearing a one pound tail. Yes, tail extensions are for mules as well! Tilly had her tail chewed off by a naughty colt, so her formerly beautiful tail now falls at her hocks. Tilly is a tall and leggy mule. We put a one pound 36 inch long Trophy Tail on her to illustrate just how long 36 inches is! If we were showing Tilly, we would most certainly trim this tail so she would not step on it and break the tie in strings.

Connection

There are many different styles and techniques for connecting tail extensions. After much research and testing, we decided to build our Trophy Tail line around two connectors, the one of a kind Three-In-One connector, and the traditional Wrap connector.

The All-Purpose Three-In-One Tail Connector

This tail is super versatile! You can connect it three different ways: tie in, loop or slip on! If you change trainers or grooms, this tail is sure to satisfy everyone. We have connected this tail two different ways at the same time, making for a super secure connection. This tail style is available in both one pound and half pound versions.

The Wrap Style Tail Connector

The wrap style is the best choice for horses with thin tails or for more active disciplines like western performance events or jumping. A wrap can be positioned anywhere along the tail bone, while the Three-In-One connection comes off the end of the tail bone. The wrap takes a little more work to apply, but many think it is the most natural looking of all the tails. We offer a full one pound wrap tail! Most wraps are three quarter pound or less. We also offer a half pound wrap.

Selecting a Color

Selecting the correct color for a tail extension is generally a matter of matching up the color of the tail extension with the horse’s existing hair. For most horses the decision is simple, while for others the process can be a bit confusing. Horses with unique or mixed tail colors often require extra thought. When choosing a color, match the hair coming off the end of the horse’s tailbone, not the top. This is because the top hair will lay over the tail extension and blend into the extension. Also, much of the time the hair coming off the tailbone is a shade darker than the top hairs.

In the example below, Rocky’s tail looks white on top, but the hairs coming off the end of the tail are golden, so he looks the most natural with our Palomino tail, and not a white tail! If you are still uncertain about your color choice, snip 12-15 hairs from the end of the tailbone and make arrangements to have them sent to us through your favorite retailer and we will be happy to find the best match for your tail. One more point to add, tail extensions can be dyed for additional coloring effects. See our section on Tail Dying in the Care And Tip section for additional information.

Our 16.1 Hand Appaloosa “Rocky” with One Pound Palomino Tail