Choosing the Right Slicker Hood for Your Horse

A slicker hood helps keep your horse's coat, mane, and braids clean and tidy — whether the night before a show, during a nap on show day, or any time shavings and rubbing are a concern. Slicker hoods are typically made from a super-stretchy Lycra fabric and come in different weights depending on the time of year, with breathable mesh options available to keep your horse from overheating during the summer.

Slicker hoods come in different closure styles to make them quick and easy to put on and take off, including full zip, 3/4 zip, and pull-on. Many feature extra-large eye holes and fleece padding around the nose to help prevent rubs.

Choose a style with a forelock saver — a cutout that lets you pull the forelock through to prevent rubbing — or a traditional style that covers the forelock to keep it clean and tidy. If your horse prefers not to have anything on their face, a faceless slicker hood ends just behind the ears.

Looking for added therapeutic benefits? Our copper therapy slicker hoods use copper to help increase circulation and support recovery from muscle stiffness or soreness. For a different kind of therapeutic support, our Dura-Tech® Magnetic Slicker Hood uses magnets to increase blood flow and relax tense muscles — ideal for use before and after training.

Only need to cover part of your horse? A Shoulder Guard targets rubs at the shoulder without covering the head, while a Full Body Slicker & Sheet offers complete coverage in one piece if your horse needs protection everywhere.

Our UltraFlex® fabric isn't just for slickers — you'll also find it in our fly masks and tail bags.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slicker Hoods

What is a slicker hood used for?
A slicker hood helps keep a horse clean while in their stall, tames the mane, and offers protection from shavings or rubbing when your horse is braided or banded. It also helps prevent blanket rubs around the head and neck.

What's the difference between a full zip, 3/4 zip, and pull-on slicker hood?
The difference is mainly how the hood goes on and off — a full zip opens the entire length for easy on/off, a 3/4 zip opens partway, and a pull-on style has no zipper at all. All three offer the same stretchy, comfortable fit.

Can a slicker hood be worn in warm weather?
Yes. Many slicker hoods are available in a breathable, stretchy mesh fabric designed to be worn during the summer months without making your horse too hot.