how to size your horse for a blanket

3 min read 16-01-2025

Meta Description: Finding the right horse blanket size is crucial for comfort and effectiveness. This comprehensive guide provides step-by-step instructions and tips on accurately measuring your horse for a perfect fit, ensuring optimal warmth and protection. Learn how to measure your horse's back length, chest, and neck, and understand different blanket styles and sizing charts. Avoid common sizing mistakes and keep your horse cozy all season long!

Why Proper Blanket Sizing Matters

Choosing the right size horse blanket is critical for your horse's comfort and the blanket's effectiveness. A blanket that's too small will restrict movement and may chafe. A blanket that's too large can shift, bunch up, and offer inadequate protection from the elements. Accurate measurement is key to finding the perfect fit.

Measuring Your Horse for a Blanket: A Step-by-Step Guide

Before you begin, gather a flexible tape measure and enlist a helper. It's much easier with an extra set of hands! Here's how to measure your horse for a blanket:

1. Measuring the Back Length

Step 1: Stand your horse square. Have your helper hold the horse still to avoid movement.
Step 2: Begin measuring at the point of the horse's withers (the highest point of the shoulders).
Step 3: Extend the tape measure down the horse's back to the point where the tail begins. This is your horse's back length.

2. Measuring the Chest

Step 1: Wrap the tape measure around the deepest part of your horse's chest, just behind the front legs.
Step 2: Ensure the tape measure is snug but not tight.

3. Measuring the Neck

Step 1: Measure the circumference of your horse's neck at its widest point, generally around the base of the mane.
Step 2: Ensure the tape measure is snug but not restricting the horse's movement.

Understanding Blanket Styles and Sizing Charts

Different blanket styles (e.g., turnout blankets, stable blankets, fly sheets) may have slightly different sizing charts. Always refer to the specific manufacturer's chart. Many manufacturers offer sizing charts on their websites or in their catalogs.

Most blanket manufacturers use a combination of back length, chest, and neck measurements to determine the correct size. Some may only list the back length, while others give you a range of chest and neck measurements for each size.

Common Blanket Types and Their Uses:

Turnout Blankets: Waterproof and windproof, designed for outdoor use.
Stable Blankets: Lightweight, used indoors for warmth or to absorb sweat.
Fly Sheets: Lightweight, breathable sheets that protect against insects.

Interpreting the Sizing Chart

Once you have your measurements, carefully consult the manufacturer's sizing chart. Don't rely on generic size guides. Blanket sizes vary between brands. Some charts will give you a clear size recommendation based on your measurements. Other charts may list measurements for each size, allowing you to find the best fit.

Avoiding Common Sizing Mistakes

Relying on weight: Weight alone is not a reliable indicator of blanket size. Different breeds and body types have varying weight-to-size ratios.
Buying too small: A blanket that is too small can restrict your horse's movement and cause discomfort, even chafing.
Buying too large: A blanket that is too large can slip, bunch up, and become ineffective.

What to Do If Your Measurements Fall Between Sizes

If your horse's measurements fall between two sizes, it's generally best to choose the larger size. This will ensure a better fit and prevent the blanket from being too restrictive. Consider using a neck cover or surcingle to secure the blanket.

Conclusion

Taking accurate measurements is essential to ensuring your horse has a blanket that fits properly. By following these steps and consulting the manufacturer's sizing chart, you can find the perfect blanket to keep your horse warm, comfortable, and protected all season long. Remember, a properly fitted blanket is crucial for both comfort and the blanket's functionality.