How to choose the right horse blanket: a complete guide to protecting your horse from the cold

With winter approaching, choosing the right Horse Blanket is essential for your horse’s well-being but can prove to be a complex task. There are numerous factors to evaluate, and every horse has its own specific needs.

In this article, we will guide you step by step to help you make the best decision, considering all important factors.

KEY ELEMENTS TO CHOOSING THE RIGHT HORSE BLANKET

Before buying a Horse Blanket, carefully evaluate these elements:

• Horse’s coat: If your horse is clipped, it will need more thermal protection compared to an unclipped horse.

• Lifestyle: Does your horse spend more time in the stable or in the paddock? The needs vary depending on the lifestyle.

• Age: Foals and older horses often require blankets with higher thermal insulation.

• Season and temperature: The climate plays a key role in choosing the blanket.

TYPES OF HORSE BLANKETS

Horse Blankets vary based on the level of padding, which determines the warmth provided:

• Lightweight blankets (0 - 100 g)

• Medium blankets (150 - 250 g)

• Heavy blankets (300 g and above)

Stable and turnout Horse Blankets have different features:

• Stable blankets: Not waterproof, designed for horses that spend most of their time indoors. They provide comfort and warmth but do not protect from rain.

• Turnout blankets: Waterproof and durable, ideal for horses that live outdoors. They are designed to withstand rain, wind, and snow.

IMPORTANCE OF FABRIC DURABILITY: DENIERS (D)

The durability of a blanket’s fabric is indicated by deniers (D), a measure of the density or thickness of the thread used. This value shows how robust and resistant the material of the blanket is.

A 600D blanket offers medium resistance. The higher the number of deniers, the more robust and durable the blanket.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT HORSE BLANKET BASED ON TEMPERATURE

To determine which Horse Blanket to use, consider your horse's coat and the external temperature:

Clipped horse:

• From 15° to 10°C: no fill blanket or 150 g blanket

• From 10° to 5°C: 200 g blanket

• From 5° to 0°C: 300/350 g blanket

• From 0° to -10°C: 350/400 g blanket or more

Unclipped horse:

• From 15° to 10°C: no blanket or no fill blanket

• From 10° to 5°C: no blanket or no fill blanket

• From 5° to 0°C: no blanket or 150/200 g blanket

• From 0° to -10°C: no blanket, or no fill blanket, or 200/300 g blanket

HOW TO CHOOSE THE CORRECT SIZE

To ensure the Horse Blanket fits comfortably, it is crucial to choose the correct size. 

Using a measuring tape, measure from the center of the withers to the base of the tail. Add approximately 5 cm to the measurement to ensure a comfortable fit.

The guidelines for choosing a blanket are general and apply to horses living in stables or paddocks with shelters closed on three sides.

It is essential to take into account the specific needs and lifestyle of each horse when making your choice.

THE BEST HORSE BLANKETS: A SOLUTION FOR EVERY NEED

For horses living in paddocks, it is essential to choose durable and waterproof outdoor Horse Blankets that can protect against rain, wind, and temperature fluctuations.

On the other hand, for horses that mainly live in stables, less durable, non-waterproof blankets are preferred, designed to provide comfort and maintain the right temperature.

We have selected the best options for you, divided into three categories to meet every need:

1. ENTRY LEVEL

Reliable and efficient solutions, perfect for those looking for a practical Horse Blanket without compromising on quality.

Stable Horse Blanket:

• Amahorse Classic Model 350 g

• Amahorse Molde Model 250 g

• Amahorse Alaska Model 350 g

Turnout Horse Blanket:

• Equitheme Tyrex 600 D 300 g Model

2. MID-RANGE

For those seeking a balance between comfort and performance, featuring durable materials, high waterproofing, and excellent fit.

Stable Horse Blanket:

• Horseware 350 g

Turnout Horse Blanket:

• Equithème Tyrex 1200 D 300 g

• Equithème Tyrex Combo 600 D 350 g with Neck Cover

3. PREMIUM

For the ultimate in comfort and technology, offering advanced thermal insulation, durability, and highly effective protection, ideal for even the harshest climates.

Stable Horse Blanket:

• Horseware 450 g

Turnout Horse Blanket:

• Equitheme Turnout Tyrex 1200 D with High Neck 300 g

Whatever your needs, our expert team is ready to guide you in choosing the perfect Horse Blanket. If you need personalized advice, contact us on WhatsApp.