A glossy coat isn’t just for the show ring. It’s a sign of a healthy, well-cared-for horse, and during summer it can be surprisingly easy to maintain with the right routine. Dust, sweat and dry ground can dull the coat quickly, but you don’t need to spend hours grooming every day to stay on top of it.

Here’s how to get results with simple, time-saving care.

Start with a proper wash

A clean coat is the foundation of everything. After a hose down, choose a shampoo suited to your horse’s skin and coat. In warmer weather, it helps to use something refreshing, especially after a hack or a roll in the field.

Some of our go-to products at Four Hills Equestrian:

• Aqueos Shampoo – gentle, antibacterial, ideal after exercise or for sensitive skin

• Gold Label Citronella Shampoo – fresh scent, and may help deter flies

• NAF Cooling Wash – no rinse required, perfect for a quick post-ride clean

Use a sponge and a stiff brush to lift sweat and dirt right out of the coat.

Add a touch of shine

Once your horse is dry, finishing products help boost that healthy look. A good coat spray brings out natural shine, and detanglers make grooming tails and manes quicker and easier.

Useful staples include:

• Carr & Day & Martin Coat Shine for a glossy finish

• Mane N Tail Detangler to reduce breakage and tangles

• Gold Label Flygon Wipes for tidying sensitive areas or quick touch-ups

Many sprays offer extra benefits too, such as fly repellent or UV protection.

Hoof care matters too

Hot weather and hard ground can cause hooves to dry out and crack. Make it a habit to apply hydrating hoof oil or balm regularly, and use a hoof hardener if your horse needs extra support. Keeping up with farrier visits is just as important in summer as it is in winter.

Keep it simple day-to-day

Even with limited time, a few minutes of daily grooming keeps coats in good shape. A quick flick with a body brush, a wipe with a soft cloth, and a once-over with a rubber curry comb helps bring natural oils to the surface. Spraying a light coat of shine spray before turnout can stop dust settling so quickly.

Organise your tools in a durable grooming bag so everything’s ready to grab and go.

Matchy-matchy is always welcome

You don’t need to be colour-coordinated, but it’s more fun when you are. Matching fly rugs, masks, brushes and buckets make your setup feel pulled together, and make it easier to keep track of everything.

You don’t need everything – just the right things

A well-kept coat and healthy hooves don’t come from owning a full tack room’s worth of products. Just a few well-chosen basics, used consistently, can make all the difference.

Browse our summer grooming collection to find your favourites. If you're a student or recent graduate, don’t forget to use your 15% off with Student Beans.

Need advice? Message us on Instagram – we’re always happy to help.

Written by Maddie Grey, horse owner and product tester at Four Hills Equestrian