tailhole
An opening in a garment for a tail to go through.
tailhole: the slit where a horse's tail passes through
A tailhole is an opening cut into the rear panel of a garment designed to fit a horse, allowing the animal's tail to pass through comfortably. The hole is typically reinforced with stitching or binding to prevent fraying and tearing under the repeated stress and movement of the tail. This detail appears most often in riding wear, turnout rugs, and other equestrian textiles where the garment must sit snugly against the horse's body without being fouled or displaced by the tail.
The opening is usually positioned vertically, centered at the midline of the rear seam or panel, approximately 6 to 12 inches below the croup depending on the garment type and horse size. For riding coats and formal wear, the tailhole is small and precisely cut to minimize gaps in the tailoring. For turnout rugs and stable blankets, the opening may be larger to allow for natural tail carriage without restriction. Some designs use a flap or gusset around the hole to reinforce the stress point and reduce wind entry.
Construction and durability
Reinforcement of the tailhole is critical. Most manufacturers bind the raw edges with tape or ribbon, or create a small hem and stitch the perimeter several times to distribute wear loads. Some heavier-duty garments feature a small patch of woven fabric bonded underneath the opening as additional backing. Without proper reinforcement, the hole tears outward from the repeated pulling and friction of the tail, especially in active horses or long-haired tails that snag easily.
Sizing the tailhole correctly prevents two common problems: a hole that is too large allows drafts and moisture to enter the garment and compromises fit at the dock; a hole that is too small pinches the tail base, causes discomfort, and risks tearing the surrounding fabric. Some manufacturers provide adjustable designs with eyelets to tighten or loosen the opening as needed.
The tailhole is a simple but essential feature that distinguishes equestrian garments from general-purpose clothing. Its presence signals a garment made specifically for horse use, and its execution reveals the quality and attention to detail of the maker.