Cleveland Bay
The Cleveland Bay is one of the oldest horse breeds in England, known for its strength, versatility, and distinctive bay colouring. Originating in the North East of England, particularly in Yorkshire, the breed was historically used as a pack horse and later for agricultural work and carriage driving. Cleveland Bays are typically large, powerful horses with a well-muscled build, strong legs, and a calm, willing temperament. Unlike many breeds, they are always bay in colour, with black points (mane, tail, and lower legs). Today, the breed is valued for its versatility and is used in riding, driving, and ceremonial roles, including royal carriage horses. Despite its many qualities, the Cleveland Bay is considered a rare breed, with ongoing efforts to preserve its population.
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Masterclip HD Roamer Cordless Horse Clipper - Heavy Duty Clipper with Premium A2 Blades
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Hunter - Lightweight 200W Professional Horse Clipper
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Showmate II Cordless Horse Trimmer - Pink
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Masterclip 100G Transitional Turnout Rug - Waterproof & Breathable
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Masterclip 100G Stable Rug - Diamond Quilted Ideal Post Clip - Lightweight & Insulating
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Curved Scissors - Ideal for Tails
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Finishing Scissors - Ideal for Legs & All Show Prep
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Thinning Scissors - Ideal for Feathers, Mane & Tail
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Must Have LARGE Microfibre Cloth
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Honest Horse | Organic Hot Cloth Elixir Oil - 250ml
Fine blade 1.5mm:
- Suited to horses with fine coats and where a close finish is required to enable quick cooling in fast-paced sports such as racing, eventing, and endurance.
- Not suitable for pink-skinned horses as will reveal too much skin beneath the coat and leave them susceptible to sunburn.
- Not advised for use on other lighter coloured horses and novice clippers as imperfections are more visible on these coats.
- Will blunt more quickly if used on thicker/coarser coats.
- Matching blade for A5 small clipper = 10 or 10w
Medium blades 2.5mm:
- Suited to the majority of coat types and situations from warmbloods to natives and drafts, including Cushing's coats.
- May still be a little short for summer clipping of the majority white (pink-skinned) coloureds who would have to wear a UV sheet for sun protection.
- Matching blade for a5 small clipper = 8.5 or 8.5w
Coarse 4.5mm.
- This blade is a popular choice for late spring (early show season) and early autumn (pre HOYS) during the change of coat between winter and summer, particularly for native and cob types giving a tidy appearance but more length, giving a richer coat colour for a more natural look.
- This blade is not suited to clipping full, thick winter coats and would not help to keep the colour once the winter coat has come through fully.
- Top choice for summer clipping majority white coloured horses as is long enough to avoid revealing pink skin.
The teeth are set slightly further apart, so extra care must be taken around delicate areas where the skin may be wrinkled ie armpits, stifles, between forelegs.
Matching blade for a5 small clipper = 6fw
• You can use firmer pressure than with finer-skinned breeds, as Cleveland Bays generally have tougher skin and denser coats.
• Pay attention to key areas like the withers, shoulders, girth area, and legs where dirt and sweat can build up.
• Regularly check for saddle and girth rubs, especially as their powerful build can make tack fit crucial.
• In colder weather, their thicker coat may trap dirt and moisture, so thorough but efficient grooming is important.
• After exercise, make sure sweat is fully removed, particularly under the girth, between the hind legs, and under the mane to prevent irritation and skin issues.
Get the horse ready
Make sure your Cleveland Bay is clean, fully dry, and relaxed. Their dense coat can trap dirt easily, so thorough brushing (and ideally washing the day before) is important—this protects your blades and helps achieve a smoother, more even finish.
Choose the right clippers (e.g. Masterclip range)
Cleveland Bays often have thick, coarse winter coats, so powerful clippers are essential:
• Heavy-duty clippers (e.g. Masterclip Hunter or HD Roamer) are best for full clips and dense coats.
• Trimmers (e.g. Showmate) are ideal for finer areas like the face, heels, and finishing work.
Masterclip offers cordless, mains-powered, and combo kits suited to heavier native-type coats like the Cleveland Bay.
Gather your kit
Clippers, oil, brush, chalk (for lines), coolant, and possibly a helper.
With thicker coats, you may also want spare blades ready, as they can dull or heat up more quickly.
Set up safely
Tie up in a quiet, well-lit area. Cleveland Bays are generally sensible and steady, but still allow them time to get used to the clippers.
Cordless models can be helpful around larger horses to reduce cable management and improve safety.
Start at the shoulder
Begin on a broad, less sensitive area like the shoulder. Use long, steady strokes against the direction of hair growth.
Their larger frame means keeping the clipper flat is key for an even finish.
Work methodically
Clip in sections (neck → body → hindquarters).
Because of their size and coat density, work slowly and overlap strokes slightly to avoid lines or patchiness.
Take care on sensitive areas
Use smaller trimmers for the face, ears, and lower legs.
Cleveland Bays often have feathering around the heels, so take extra care here and clip gradually for a neat result.
Check blades regularly
Brush out hair and oil frequently.
Thicker coats generate more heat, so check blades often and use coolant if needed. Even durable, toughened steel blades will need regular maintenance during a full clip.
Tidy up lines
Step back regularly to check your work.
For clips like trace or blanket clips, marking lines beforehand is especially helpful on a larger-bodied horse to keep everything balanced and symmetrical.
Aftercare
Brush off loose hair and rug appropriately—Cleveland Bays can lose a lot of insulation after clipping.
Clean and oil your clippers thoroughly after use. Regular maintenance will keep them performing well, especially when working on heavier coats.
Its important to make sure the horse is at the correct temperature after being clipped. Fleeces are generally not recommended for clipped horses, especially as overnight rugs, due to comfort and skin concerns. While they’re useful for short-term cooling or drying, extended use can cause problems. The fabric can grip the short coat, creating a “Velcro-like” effect that pulls on the skin as the horse moves. This friction may lead to irritation, hives, or sores. Fleeces can also generate static, causing discomfort, and tend to shift backwards, increasing pressure on the chest and withers.
Here at masterclip, with clipping being at the forefront of our minds we have designed the perfect rug to stop any irritation after your horse or pony has been clipped. Our post clip 100g stable offers a soft velvet touch faux fur lining, this lightweight stable rug insulates beautifully without the bulk
The recommendations provided are based on our experience and opinions regarding suitable blade choices. However, every horse is unique, and you know your horse best. What works well for one may not be appropriate for another. If you would like further guidance or to discuss tailored options, please feel free to contact the office and we will be happy to assist you.
