Horse blankets come in a wide variety of sizes, from as small as 48 inches all the way up to 72 inches, and are designed to fit horses of differing sizes and shapes. Understanding which size blanket is best for your horse is essential for keeping them comfortable and protected throughout the year. This article will discuss what size horse a 72 inch blanket fits, along with other factors you should consider when choosing a blanket size.
Understanding Horse Blanket Sizes
When it comes to horse blankets, the size of the blanket is typically measured in inches around the chest, just behind the front legs. The size of the blanket you choose depends on the breed, size, and shape of your horse, as well as the weather conditions they will be exposed to. A blanket that is too large will be bulky and uncomfortable, while a blanket that is too small may not provide adequate protection.
For horses that are between 14 and 15.2 hands high and weigh around 900-1100lbs, a 72 inch blanket is the best choice. However, if your horse is larger or smaller than this, you may need to select a different size. For example, if your horse is 15.2-16 hands high, you may want to select a 78-inch blanket.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Blanket Size
When selecting a blanket for your horse, you should consider several factors, including the weather, the type of activity your horse will be doing, and the coat of your horse.
Weather: In general, the thicker the blanket, the more protection it will provide against the elements. If your horse will be spending time in a cold climate, you may want to select a thicker blanket, such as a 72-inch blanket. On the other hand, if your horse will be spending time in a warmer climate, you may want to select a thinner blanket, such as a 66-inch blanket.
Type of Activity: If your horse will be participating in activities such as show jumping, cross country, or dressage, you may want to select a thinner blanket that will help keep them cool and sweat-free. However, if your horse will be spending more time in the stable, you may want to select a thicker blanket with more insulation.
Coat: If your horse has a thick winter coat, you may want to select a thinner blanket that will help keep them cool in the summer months. If your horse does not have a thick winter coat, you may want to select a thicker blanket that will provide more insulation in cold weather.
Other Factors to Consider
In addition to the factors mentioned above, there are other factors you should consider when selecting a blanket size. For example, you may want to consider the type of closure system the blanket has, as well as the fit of the blanket.
Closure System: Blankets come with a variety of closure systems, including buckles, straps, and Velcro. Depending on your horse’s size and shape, you may want to select a closure system that will provide a secure fit.
Fit: You should also consider the fit of the blanket. Blankets should fit snugly around your horse, without being too tight or too loose. This will help ensure that the blanket does not slip off or cause any discomfort.
Conclusion
Choosing the right size blanket for your horse is essential for keeping them comfortable and protected in any weather condition. A 72-inch blanket is the best choice for horses that are between 14 and 15.2 hands high and weigh around 900-1100lbs. However, you should also consider the weather, type of activity your horse will be doing, and the coat of your horse when selecting a blanket size.