Knowing when to blanket a horse is a critical part of your horse’s cold-weather care routine. Whether your horse lives outdoors, is clipped for winter riding, or is older and needs extra warmth, our complete horse blanket guide will help you determine when and what type of blanket your horse needs.
Signs Your Horse May Need a Blanket
There are a few signs that your horse may need a blanket, such as shivering or signs of cold stress, excessive weight loss or lack of appetite, wet or damp weather conditions, or a tucked-up or haunched stance.
- Shivering or standing hunched against the wind
- Weight loss or a drop in body condition
- Lack of shelter from wind, rain, or snow
- Senior or clipped horse with thin coat
- Wet and cold coat after rain or snow
If your horse shows any of these signs, it may be time to reach for a blanket.
When to Blanket a Horse Based on Temperature
One of the most common questions horse owners ask is: “At what temperature should I blanket my horse?” This simple chart helps you decide based on coat condition, age, and weather severity.
Use this quick reference chart to help decide when and what to use:
| STABLE | TURNOUT | SHORT COAT OR CLIPPED | MEDIUM OR FULL COAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sheet No insulation | Sheet No insulation | 50°F - 65°F | As needed |
| Tekno-Fleece® Moisture-wicking technology | Tekno-Fleece® Moisture-wicking technology | 40°F - 60°F | 30°F - 50°F |
| Light Weight 180 grams | Light Weight 80-180 grams | 40°F - 60°F | 30°F - 50°F+ |
| Medium Weight 280 grams | Medium Weight 220 grams | 35°F - 50°F | 30°F - 45°F |
| Heavy Weight 440 grams | Heavy Weight 380 grams | 20°F - 40°F | 15°F - 30°F |
| Extra Heavy Weight 500 grams | - | Subzero - 20°F | Subzero - 15°F |
This horse blanketing guide gives you a general framework, but remember to adjust based on your horse’s needs and weather conditions.
Factors That Affect Blanketing Decisions
Blanketing isn’t one-size-fits-all. Each horse's needs vary based on coat type, living conditions, and health. Consider these key factors before choosing whether to blanket your horse.
Coat Type
A horse’s natural winter coat provides insulation by trapping warm air close to the skin. However, if your horse has been body clipped for winter riding or competition, that natural protection is removed. Clipped horses require blanketing at warmer temperatures than fully coated horses, especially if they are exposed to wind or precipitation. Even a partial clip may warrant a lightweight or midweight blanket, depending on conditions.
Age and Condition
Older horses or those with difficulty maintaining weight often need more help staying warm. Senior horses tend to have a slower metabolism and may not grow as dense as a winter coat. Likewise, horses with low body condition or chronic health issues may not generate or retain heat efficiently. These horses benefit from blanketing earlier in the season or at higher temperatures than healthy, younger animals.
Weather Conditions
Temperature is just one part of the equation. Wind, rain, and snow significantly affect how cold a horse feels, and wet conditions can quickly strip away the insulating properties of a horse’s coat. For example, a 40°F day with heavy wind and rain can feel colder to your horse than a dry 30°F day. Turnout blankets with waterproof and windproof features help maintain warmth even in harsh weather.
Access to Shelter
A horse’s ability to escape the elements matters greatly. Horses that live in open pastures without run-in sheds or natural windbreaks are much more exposed than those with access to shelter. Even a horse with a thick coat may need a blanket during storms or extreme cold if they don’t have a place to retreat from the wind and precipitation. Shelter availability should always be factored into your blanketing decision.
Types of Horse Blankets
From turnout blankets to liners and coolers, each type of horse blanket has a specific purpose. This guide helps you understand which blankets to use and when:
Turnout blankets are designed for outdoor use and are essential for horses exposed to rain, snow, or wind. They are made with tough, waterproof materials and breathable linings that help regulate your horse’s body temperature while keeping them dry. Turnouts come in different weights (lightweight, midweight, and heavyweight), allowing you to adjust coverage based on temperature. These blankets are ideal for unclipped or clipped horses that live outside or have limited shelter.
Stable blankets are meant for indoor use, such as inside a stall or barn. They provide warmth but are not waterproof, which means they should not be used for turnout in wet conditions. These blankets are often softer and more flexible than turnout rugs, offering comfort for resting horses. Choose a stable blanket for horses that stay indoors during cold weather or as a secondary layer when stalled overnight.
Coolers are used to wick away moisture after exercise, bathing, or in humid conditions. Made of breathable, moisture-wicking fabric like fleece or mesh, coolers help your horse dry off without catching a chill. While they don’t offer insulation against the cold, they are essential tools for keeping your horse’s muscles warm and preventing dampness from causing discomfort or illness.
Sheets add versatility to your blanketing strategy. These lightweight, insulating layers are worn under a turnout or stable blanket to provide extra warmth without adding bulk. Sheets are ideal for adjusting to sudden temperature drops without needing multiple heavyweight blankets. They’re especially useful for layering clipped horses or seniors who require more protection in extreme cold.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even well-meaning blanketing can go wrong if you're not careful. Avoid these common mistakes to keep your horse warm, dry, and comfortable all winter long.
- Over-blanketing, which can cause overheating or sweating
- Using a stable blanket outdoors in wet weather
- Failing to adjust blanket weight with temperature changes
- Blankets that fit poorly and cause rubs or shifting
Recommended Horse Blankets
Choosing the right blanket can make all the difference. Here are some top-rated options trusted by horse owners to provide warmth, durability, and reliable protection.
StormShield® Contour Collar Turnout Blanket
StormShield® II Blankets are meticulously crafted to provide your horse unparalleled protection against harsh weather conditions. Made with new and improved waterproof and breathability ratings, these blankets are more waterproof than competitive brands and offer exceptional breathability, ensuring that your horse stays dry, comfortable, and well-ventilated.
ArmorFlex® Warrior Blanket
Discover the ultimate combination of durability and comfort with our ARMORFlex® Turnout Blankets, crafted to withstand the ruggedness of pasture play. You can pick between multiple styles to choose the fabric, fit, weight, and durability that works best for your needs. With innovative features, such as reflective patches, Teflon coating, and even Aridity™ Bamboo Charcoal lining with deodorizing, antibacterial, and antifungal properties that fight skin irritations.
FAQs About Horse Blanketing
Still have questions about blanketing? You're not alone. These frequently asked questions cover the most common concerns and scenarios horse owners face in cold weather.
Q: What should I blanket my horse?
A: Use our horse blanketing temperature guide to help decide. Coat type, age, and weather all factor in.
Q: Do all horses need blankets in winter?
A: No. Healthy horses with thick winter coats and access to shelter may not need blankets above 30°F.
Q: Can I layer horse blankets?
A: Yes. Use blanket liners beneath a turnout or stable blanket for added warmth and flexibility.
Q: How can I tell if my horse is cold?
A: Shivering, huddling, and cold underbelly or ears can indicate your horse is cold and may need a blanket.
Proper blanketing protects your horse from winter’s worst while supporting their health and comfort. Let this horse blanket guide help you make informed decisions all season long.
