Black Horse Tail Extensions: Natural Black or Total Black?

Black looks like the simplest colour to match. In practice, it is the hardest. A black tail is rarely one single shade: it fades in the sun, warms at the ends and changes completely between the stable and the arena. Choose the wrong black and the join shows from the centre line.

Here is how to choose the right black horse tail extension for your horse.

Why black tails are hard to match

Most black horses are not jet black all the way down. The hair closest to the dock stays dark, while the lower part of the tail, exposed to sun, washing and weather, often fades to a softer black with brown or rusty tones at the ends.

Dark bay and brown horses add another layer: a black tail that looks almost brown in bright light. That is why the first step is always the same. Look at the tail in natural daylight, not under stable lights, and focus on the lower half, where the extension will sit.

Natural Black

Natural Black is a soft, natural black with the subtle variation you see in a real tail. In sunlight it can show gentle warm undertones, so it blends easily with tails that are not perfectly uniform.

Choose Natural Black if your horse's tail has faded slightly at the ends, shows brown tones in the sun, or belongs to a dark bay or brown horse with a black tail.

Total Black

Total Black is a deep, even black from top to bottom. It gives a crisp, polished look and suits tails that stay dark all the way down.

Choose Total Black if your horse has a true jet-black tail with no visible fading, or if you want a striking, uniform finish for the show ring.

Still between the two?

Hold your horse's tail against a plain background in daylight and photograph the lower third. If you can see any brown, red or faded tones, Natural Black is usually the closer match. If the photo shows a solid, inky black, go for Total Black.

Not sure? Send us the photo and we will help you choose before you order.

Weight and volume

Standard Fairytail Extensions weigh 450g, enough to add length and volume while moving naturally with the stride. If your horse's tail is very sparse, Max Volume adds extra fullness.

Fitting a black tail extension

The Braided Loop is the quickest and easiest way to fit your extension. You make a short braid in your horse's own tail, pull the loop through and lock it in place, then release the top hair over the join so it disappears. Our step-by-step guide explains how to attach a horse tail extension.

Keeping a black tail looking its best

Sun is the biggest enemy of a black tail, both your horse's own hair and the extension. Store the extension away from direct sunlight, brush it gently from the bottom up and use a detangler on the lengths. Remove the extension after work rather than leaving it in.

With the right shade and a little care, a black tail extension reads as your horse's own tail, from the warm-up to the final salute.

Explore the full range of Fairytail Extensions.