Navigating the world of horse blankets can feel like learning a new language. With so many terms and types, it's easy to get overwhelmed. But don't worry, we're here to help you become fluent! This comprehensive guide will break down the different types of horse blankets and their weights while demystifying common terms used in horse blanket descriptions.
Different Types of Horse Blankets: Turnout, Stable, Sheets, & More
Search for “horse blanket” and you will find lots of options. But which one do you need? Do you need to buy several? Below are the types of blankets you may need.
Waterproof Turnout Blankets
Waterproof turnout blankets are the superheroes of horse blankets. They are designed for outdoor use in wet weather conditions and keep your horse dry and comfortable by repelling rain and snow. Made from durable materials that withstand the elements, these horse blankets ensure your horse remains cozy and dry.
Ideal Use Case: These blankets are perfect for cold days in the pasture and prevent rain rot and chill from rain, snow, ice, and mud.
Turnout and Rain Sheets
Turnout sheets and rain sheets are no-fill versions of waterproof turnout blankets. They offer protection from rain without causing overheating and are ideal for mild, wet weather.
Ideal Use Case: This is perfect for drizzly spring or autumn days when a heavy blanket would be too much.
Stable Blankets
Stable blankets are your indoor comforters. Designed for warmth in a stable or barn, they're not waterproof but provide a cozy layer against cold drafts. These blankets are not suitable for turnout use.
Ideal Use Case: Perfect for keeping your horse cozy in their stall during the winter, especially clipped horses or horses with lighter coats.
Blanket Hoods and Neck Covers
Blanket hoods and neck covers are the perfect accessory for your horse blankets. They provide extra coverage for your horse's neck and head, protecting these sensitive areas from the cold.
Ideal Use Case: Perfect for older or sensitive horses that cannot tolerate much cold.
Horse Cooler Blankets and Show Covers
Horse cooler blankets and show covers are perfect for after exercise or during shows. They help wick away moisture and shine your horse's coat. They are essential for maintaining your horse's temperature and preventing chills after a strenuous workout or during a cool-down period.
Ideal Use Case: The perfect solution for preventing chills after exercise and protecting your horse and tack from rain and dirt before a show.
Understanding Blanket Weight and Fill for Temperature Control
Horse blankets come in multiple weights, which provide warmth for your horse. Each weight has a “fill weight”: the amount of insulation the horse blanket contains
No Fill: These are the lightest options, providing a protective layer without added insulation. They're like a raincoat for your horse, offering protection without extra warmth. No-fill blankets mean just that: there are 0 grams of fill weight.
Lightweight Blankets: With minimal insulation, these are perfect for cool but not freezing temperatures. They strike the ideal balance between no-fill and medium-weight blankets, providing enough warmth for those in-between days. These blankets contain 1-100 grams of fill weight.
Medium Weight Blankets: These offer moderate insulation for colder weather. They're your go-to for winter days when it's cold but not freezing, ensuring your horse stays warm without overheating. These blankets contain 150 to 225 grams of fill weight.
Heavy-Weight and Ultra-Heavy Weight Blankets: The warmest options are designed for freezing temperatures and harsh winter conditions. They're like a heavy-duty winter coat for your horse, providing maximum warmth and protection against the cold. Heavy blankets contain 250-370 grams of fill weight, while ultra-heavy blankets contain about 400 grams.
Parts of the Horse Blanket
Neck Cover: A detachable neck cover adds extra protection from the elements. Our turnout neck covers are attached to four carabiner clips
Front Closure: Closed Front blankets slip over the horse’s head; open Front blankets are more adjustable and come in two types: Double Buckles with two simple buckles or Double Snaps with buckled adjustments with easy on-off snaps.
D-Rings: The D-rings around the neck of our blankets are made to attach to the blanket’s matching neck cover.
Shoulder Gusset: Allow for greater freedom of movement for the shoulder to prevent rubbing.
Adjusta-Fit®: Customize the neck opening of your blanket to fit any horse of any width.
Drop: The drops of our blankets are graded to the size of the blanket, but our blanket also fits over different drop lengths to accommodate your horse’s shape.
Belly Closure: Our bellyband closure offers additional warmth and coverage, and our surgele closure keeps the blanket in place more securely.
Tail Cover: The tail covers on our turnout blankets add rear protection from wind and rain and are either sewn on or detachable.
Horse Blanket Vocab Term 101
We’ve covered the basics of horse blankets, but within each type of horse blanket, there are terms you need to know to choose the right horse blanket for your horse.
What is Denir?
Denier is the measure of nylon fabric density. Think of this as the toughness rating of your horse blanket. The higher the denier, the more durable and strong the fabric. A high-denier blanket is like a suit of armor for your horse, resisting wear and tear.
What is Fill?
Fill and fill weight refers to the amount of insulation in the blanket. The higher the fill weight, the warmer the blanket. Think of it like the fluffiness of your down comforter; more fill equals more warmth.
What does the Term "Quilted" mean?
Quilted indicates that the blanket has a stitched pattern that helps keep the fill evenly distributed. It ensures consistent warmth throughout and prevents the insulation from shifting or clumping.
What does Wither Relief mean?
Wither relief refers to a horse blanket feature that acts like a cushion for your horse's withers, providing extra padding to prevent rubbing and discomfort. It's an essential feature for horses with high withers or sensitive skin.
What is a Rug?
A rug is a common term in the United Kingdom; it’s what they call a blanket.
What is a Liner?
A thin layer of liner can be added under a horse blanket for extra warmth. It's like wearing a sweater under your coat on particularly cold days.
What is a Closed Front?
A closed front is a horse blanket design feature that acts like a pullover for your horse. The front of the blanket is sewn closed, offering more warmth but less adjustability.
What is an Open Front?
An Open Front is a horse blanket design feature that allows the front of the blanket to be opened and adjusted for a more custom fit. It's like a jacket for your horse, providing flexibility and easy on-and-off.
What is a Belly Band?
A Belly Band is a wide closure that wraps around the horse's belly for extra security and warmth.
What is a Surcingle?
Surcingles are straps that cross underneath the horse's belly to keep the blanket in place.
Choosing the right horse blanket for your horse doesn’t have to be daunting when armed with the right information. Remember, the most important thing is that your horse is comfortable and protected in all weather conditions. With our guide to horse blanket terminology, you can easily order the right blanket. The only problem will be: what color do you choose?!
