“Not all combs are meant for everyday use in the barn. Choosing the correct hair-working tool helps protect your animal’s hair and hide health, ensuring they look their best on show day.”
— Tess Mittag, Manager of Stock Show University®
One of the most common questions we get at Stock Show University® events is: “Which comb should I use?” And the answer is quite simple, each comb has a specific purpose.
Plastic Combs = Daily Care and Showmanship – Plastic combs are gentle and flexible, making them ideal for daily rinsing, blowing, and working hair. They help promote healthy hair growth, reduce breakage, and keep animals comfortable during everyday care. Plastic combs are also the best choice in the show ring. When you think about safety, they’re the smarter option — if dropped, they’re less likely to injure your animal or someone who may accidentally step on them.
Metal Combs = Fitting and Clipping Only – Metal combs are designed for precision work. Their rigid teeth separate dense hair, allowing you to create cleaner lines and improved blending when clipping and fitting. However, using a metal comb for daily care can be too harsh and may damage hair or irritate the hide over time.
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