Clydesdale
The Clydesdale is a large and powerful draft horse breed originating from Scotland, particularly the River Clyde area from which it takes its name. It was originally bred for heavy farm work and hauling, playing an important role in agriculture and industry. Clydesdales are known for their impressive size, strong build, and distinctive feathering on their lower legs. They are most commonly bay in colour, often with white markings on the face and legs, giving them a striking appearance. Despite their strength, they are known for their gentle, calm, and friendly temperament. Today, Clydesdales are popular in shows, parades, and promotional work—most famously as the iconic horses used by Budweiser. They are also used for riding and driving, admired for both their power and their docile nature.
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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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Thinning Scissors - Ideal for Feathers, Mane & Tail
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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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Masterclip 100G Stable Rug - Diamond Quilted Ideal Post Clip - Lightweight & Insulating
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Honest Horse | Organic Hot Cloth Elixir Oil - 250ml
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Masterclip 100G Transitional Turnout Rug - Waterproof & Breathable
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
• Use firm but considerate pressure—Clydesdales have substantial builds and thicker skin but can still be sensitive in certain areas.
• Pay special attention to feathering on the legs, keeping it clean, dry, and free from mud to help prevent skin conditions like mud fever.
• Be thorough over large muscle areas such as the shoulders, back, and hindquarters where sweat and dirt can accumulate.
• Regularly check for saddle or harness rubs, particularly given their size and workload.
• In wet or cold weather, their heavy coat and feathers can retain moisture, so drying thoroughly is important.
• After exercise, ensure all sweat and moisture are removed, especially under tack, between the hind legs, and around feathered areas.
Get the horse ready
Make sure your Clydesdale is clean, dry, and calm. Their thick coat and abundant feathering can hold dirt and moisture, so thorough brushing is essential—this protects your blades and ensures a smoother, more even finish.
Choose the right clippers (e.g. Masterclip range)
Using suitable clippers is especially important for Clydesdales due to their dense coats:
• Heavy-duty clippers (e.g. Masterclip Hunter or HD Roamer) are ideal for full clips and very thick coats.
• Trimmers (e.g. Showmate) are perfect for detail work around the face, legs, and for tidying feather edges if required.
Masterclip offers cordless, mains-powered, and combo kits designed to handle heavy draught horse coats efficiently.
Gather your kit
Clippers, oil, brush, chalk (for lines), and possibly a helper. For Clydesdales, having spare blades is useful due to the thickness of the coat. Most Masterclip sets come with essentials like oil, blades, and a carry case.
Set up safely
Tie up in a quiet, well-lit area with plenty of space. Clydesdales are large horses, so ensure safe positioning. Let the horse get used to the sound—cordless models can help reduce stress as they’re typically quieter.
Start at the shoulder
Begin on a less sensitive area using long strokes against the hair. Keep the clipper flat and steady—thick coats may require slower, more deliberate passes.
Work methodically
Clip in sections (neck → body → hindquarters). Overlap strokes slightly for an even finish. Due to the size of a Clydesdale, take your time and work in manageable sections.
Take care on sensitive areas
Use smaller trimmers for the face and around joints. Feathering on the legs may be left natural or carefully trimmed depending on preference—take extra care as skin can be sensitive underneath.
Check blades regularly
Brush out hair and oil frequently. Clydesdale coats can heat blades quickly, so check temperature often. Masterclip blades are typically toughened steel and designed for durability but still need cooling and maintenance.
Tidy up lines
Step back often and even out any missed patches. Mark lines beforehand if doing a trace or blanket clip—this is especially helpful on larger horses.
Aftercare
Brush off loose hair, rug appropriately (as Clydesdales can lose a lot of natural insulation when clipped), and clean/oil your clippers. Most Masterclip clippers come with a 2-year warranty and support, so keeping them maintained is worthwhile.
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 rug 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.
