Winter is an exciting time of year for horse owners. With the arrival of the cold weather comes the opportunity to invest in a winter horse blanket to keep your horse warm and comfortable. But before you buy a blanket, it’s important to understand how it should fit and what features to look for.
Understanding Blanket Sizing
When shopping for a winter horse blanket, the most important thing to consider is sizing. A blanket that fits correctly will provide your horse with the warmth and protection it needs to stay healthy and comfortable during the cold winter months.
Blankets are generally sized by the measurement from the center of your horse’s chest, across the back, to the tail. This is generally referred to as the “back length” and is usually measured in inches. Most winter horse blankets are available in sizes ranging from 68” to 84”, although some specialty brands may offer sizes outside of this range. When selecting a size for your horse, it’s important to measure your horse accurately to ensure that the blanket fits properly.
Finding the Proper Fit
Once you’ve selected the right size for your horse, the next step is to ensure that the blanket fits properly. A properly fitting blanket should be snug, but not overly tight, and should not rub or chafe your horse’s skin.
When trying on a blanket, start by fastening the front straps. Make sure that the blanket is not too tight; it should fit snugly but still allow you to fit two fingers between the straps and your horse’s skin. Next, check the back length of the blanket. It should be long enough to cover your horse’s entire back and reach at least 4” past the tail. The blanket should also fit snugly around the shoulder and hip area.
Adjusting the Blanket
Once you’ve determined that the blanket fits properly, the next step is to make sure it is properly adjusted. A properly adjusted blanket should be secured at the neckline and belly, but should still allow your horse to move freely.
The neckline should be adjusted so that it is snug but not overly tight. It should fit snugly around the neck and throat, but still allow your horse to move their head freely. The belly straps should be adjusted so that the blanket fits securely around the belly, but does not restrict movement.
Features to Look For
Beyond sizing and fit, there are several features to look for when shopping for a winter horse blanket. Most blankets are made from waterproof and breathable materials, such as nylon or polyester, which help to keep your horse dry and comfortable. Look for a blanket that has reinforced seams and seams that are sealed with waterproof tape, to ensure that it will stay dry even in the harshest conditions.
Many blankets also feature a variety of features designed to keep your horse warm and comfortable. Look for blankets with a comfortable lining, such as fleece or wool, which helps to trap heat and prevent chafing. Additionally, many blankets feature additional features such as leg straps, detachable hoods, and tail covers, which can help to keep your horse warm and protected from the elements.
Conclusion
Choosing the right winter horse blanket is essential to ensuring that your horse stays warm and comfortable during the cold winter months. To ensure a proper fit, it’s important to measure your horse accurately and select the right size. Additionally, you’ll want to look for a blanket that is made from waterproof and breathable materials, and features additional features such as leg straps and detachable hoods. Taking the time to select the right blanket for your horse will help to keep them warm and protected all winter long.