You measure a horse for a blanket mainly by taking two key measurements: the length from the point of the shoulder to the center of the tail, and the depth of the horse from the lowest point of the chest (just behind the elbow) down to the bottom of the barrel. Knowing these numbers helps you find the right fit using a standard horse blanket sizing chart.
Why Getting the Right Blanket Size Matters
Putting the right blanket on your horse is very important. A blanket that is too small will rub and pinch. It can hurt the horse’s skin and coat. A blanket too big will slip and slide around. This lets cold air in and can make the horse uncomfortable. Getting accurate horse blanket measurements guide is the first step to good horse care. A good fit means the blanket stays put and keeps your horse warm or dry without causing issues.
Essential Tools for Accurate Measurement
To measure your horse correctly, you need a few simple tools. You do not need special equipment.
What You Will Need
- A soft, flexible measuring tape is best. A cloth tape works well. A metal tape can be hard to wrap around curves.
- A helper is useful, but not always needed.
- A notepad and pen to write down the numbers right away.
It is easiest to measure your horse when they are calm. Have them standing square on level ground. This means all four legs are positioned evenly beneath them.
Step-by-Step Guide to Taking Horse Blanket Measurements Correctly
There are three main measurements needed for most standard blankets. These ensure the blanket covers the horse well and doesn’t restrict movement. Always try to do this taking horse blanket measurements correctly every time you buy a new blanket.
Measuring the Blanket Length (Back Length)
This is the most common number used for blanket sizing. It tells you how long the blanket needs to be from front to back.
- Start Point: Have your helper hold the horse still, or use treats if needed. Start the tape measure right at the top point of the horse’s shoulder. This is the bony bump where the neck meets the body.
- Follow the Curve: Run the tape measure smoothly along the horse’s back. Follow the curve of the back muscle. Do not pull the tape tight against the spine. Keep it flat against the body.
- End Point: Stop measuring at the center of the tail. You are aiming for where the tail meets the dock (the bony part). Do not include the actual hairs of the tail in the measurement.
- Record: Write this number down. This number is usually in inches. This measurement directly corresponds to the primary number on most horse blanket sizing chart options.
Measuring the Depth (Chest to Belly)
This measurement checks how deep the blanket needs to be to cover the barrel properly. It prevents the blanket from being too shallow or hanging too low.
- Start Point: Locate the lowest point of the horse’s chest. This is just behind the point of the elbow when the leg is relaxed.
- Measure Down: Run the tape straight down. Go under the belly.
- End Point: Stop at the bottom edge of where you want the blanket to end. For most turnout sheets or winter blankets, this is usually just below the horse’s belly line, near the girth area. Some people measure to the point of the elbow, but measuring slightly lower gives more coverage.
- Record: Write this number down.
Measuring for Chest Fit (Chest Measurement)
Proper chest fitting is crucial. If the chest is too tight, it restricts movement and rubs hair off. If it is too loose, the blanket shifts backward. This step is often part of measuring a horse for tack, as chest fittings are similar.
- Measure Across: Measure from the point of one shoulder across the chest to the point of the other shoulder.
- Add Room: Add about 2 to 4 inches to this measurement. This extra room allows for movement and comfort.
- Alternative (For Blanket Sizing): Some people use the measurement around the widest part of the chest, just behind the point of the shoulder, adding 4-6 inches for ease. This helps ensure the front closures are not strained.
Measuring Neck Circumference (For Neck Covers or Hoods)
If you are buying a blanket with an attached neck cover or a separate neck piece, you need this size.
- Placement: Start measuring around the horse’s neck where the blanket neck will sit. This is usually about halfway up the crest of the neck, near the poll (the top of the head).
- Wrap: Wrap the tape loosely around the neck. Again, add a few inches for comfort and to avoid restricting breathing or eating.
Interpreting the Numbers: Using the Horse Blanket Sizing Chart
Once you have your back length measurement (Step 1), you can use a horse blanket size conversion chart for horses to find the correct size to order.
Most manufacturers base their sizing primarily on the back length measurement.
General Sizing Guidelines Table
| Back Length (Inches) | Typical Blanket Size (Inches) | Typical Horse Type/Breed |
|---|---|---|
| 68 – 70 | 70 | Small Ponies, Smaller Warmbloods |
| 72 – 74 | 74 | Standard Ponies, Smaller Quarter Horses |
| 76 – 78 | 78 | Average Horses (e.g., Arabians, some Warmbloods) |
| 80 – 82 | 80 | Average to Large Horses (e.g., Thoroughbreds) |
| 84 – 86 | 84 | Larger Warmbloods, Stock Horses |
| 88 and up | 88+ | Draft Crosses, very large breeds |
Note: These are starting points. Always check the specific brand’s chart.
Fathoming Breed-Specific Sizing Needs
Different breeds have vastly different body shapes. A thoroughbred horse blanket measurements will often require a longer, often deeper cut than a stocky Quarter Horse of the same height.
- Thoroughbreds: Often have sloped shoulders and long backs. They may need a larger back length measurement and often benefit from blankets designed with extra shoulder room or high neck cuts.
- Quarter Horses/Stock Type: These horses are generally wider and deeper through the chest. They might need a slightly larger size based on their depth measurement, even if their back length is average.
- Miniature Horses: Miniature horse blanket sizing is completely different. Their back lengths are usually much shorter (often in the 30s to 40s range). You must use a specific mini chart.
Estimating Size by Horse Weight
While less accurate than measuring, you can sometimes get a rough idea of blanket size by horse weight, especially if you know the horse’s general build.
| Approximate Horse Weight (Lbs) | Estimated Blanket Size (Inches) |
|---|---|
| 500 – 800 (Pony/Small Horse) | 60″ – 72″ |
| 900 – 1100 (Average Horse) | 74″ – 78″ |
| 1200 – 1500 (Large Horse/Warmblood) | 80″ – 84″ |
| 1600+ (Draft Cross) | 86″ and up |
Special Considerations for Measuring the Shoulder
The shoulder area is where most rubbing happens. Getting the how to measure horse shoulder for blanket correct is key to comfort.
Focus on Shoulder Angle
The way the shoulder slopes affects how the blanket sits.
- Sloped Shoulders: If the shoulder slopes sharply backward (common in Thoroughbreds), a blanket that fits perfectly at the point of the shoulder might gap at the front when the horse moves. You might need shoulder gussets or a slightly larger size.
- Straight Shoulders: These horses often fit standard cuts well.
The Importance of Gussets
When buying, look for blankets with deep shoulder gussets (slits or expansion panels) built into the shoulder area. These gussets allow the blanket material to move outward when the horse steps forward, preventing the fabric from pulling tight across the chest and shoulders. This feature often makes the best way to measure horse for blanket less about precise inches and more about prioritizing mobility features.
Fitting Different Types of Blankets
The way you measure may shift slightly depending on the type of blanket you are fitting.
Turnout Blankers (Heavy or Medium Weight)
These need to be secure and cover well against weather. Ensure the back length measurement is adequate so the blanket doesn’t ride up when the horse rolls. The chest closures must be snug but allow for two fingers underneath.
Stable Blankers (Lightweight, fleece, or mid-weight indoor rugs)
Since horses move less indoors, the fit can sometimes be slightly less roomy than a turnout. However, they still need enough room for comfort, especially around the neck. For stable blankets, ensure the depth measurement accounts for the horse lying down comfortably.
Sheets (Rain Sheets or Fly Sheets)
For thin sheets, ensure the fit is quite precise. Because they lack heavy filling, a poor fit is more noticeable, leading to bunching or flapping in the wind.
Final Check: How to Tell If the Blanket Fits
After you have measured, ordered, and received the blanket, the final test is the fitting session. Do not just rely on the tape measure; watch your horse move.
Checking the Back Length Fit
- The Tail Check: When the horse stands squarely, the blanket should end around the center of the tail dock. If it ends halfway down the hindquarters, it is too short. If it covers the tail completely and bunches near the dock, it is too long.
Checking the Shoulder Fit
- The Gusset Check: Ask the horse to walk forward or stretch its neck out. The shoulder seam should stay near the point of the shoulder. If the seam slides back toward the middle of the body, the blanket is too small or lacks adequate shoulder room.
- The Rub Spot Check: If you see the blanket pulling tightly right behind the shoulder point, it will cause hair loss quickly.
Checking the Chest Fit
- The Closure Gap: You should be able to easily slide two fingers (not too tight, not loose) between the chest closure and the horse’s chest. This allows for breathing and eating without restriction.
- No Bridging: Ensure the blanket is not pulling tight across the horse’s withers. If it is too tight at the withers, it can cause severe sores on the spine.
Checking the Leg Arches and Belly Straps
- Leg Arches: The leg openings (if the blanket has them) should allow the front legs to swing forward freely without pulling the blanket up tightly.
- Surcingles (Belly Straps): The straps that go under the belly should cross in the middle of the belly, not far behind the elbow or too close to the front legs. They should be snug enough that they do not touch the horse’s sides when the horse moves, but loose enough that you can fit a flat hand underneath them.
Dealing with Specific Fitting Challenges
Sometimes, even with careful measuring a horse for tack experience, fit is tricky.
High Withers
If your horse has very prominent, high withers, the blanket is likely to slip backward or rub the area raw.
- Solution: Use a specialized wither relief pad underneath the blanket. Look for blankets specifically designed with a higher or padded wither relief cut-out at the front.
Broad Chests
If your horse is very broad or “beefy” in the chest (like a draft cross or a stocky Quarter Horse), the standard chest measurement might not work.
- Solution: You often need to order one size larger in the back length measurement just to get enough room across the chest, even if the back length seems slightly long. Compensate for the extra length by using a well-fitted rear closure (like leg straps) to keep the blanket from sliding forward.
Newborn Foals and Growing Horses
For foals, you can use the blanket size by horse weight estimate, but know that they grow fast. Many owners simply use a slightly larger size and roll the front down, securing it safely with a few safety pins or wraps, as long as the blanket does not drag on the ground.
Conclusion: Commitment to Comfort
Accurately measuring your horse is not a one-time chore. Growth spurts, weight gain or loss, and seasonal changes mean you should re-measure periodically. Utilizing a reliable horse blanket sizing chart combined with careful visual inspection when fitting ensures your horse stays comfortable, healthy, and protected no matter the weather. Paying attention to the small details like the shoulder and chest allows you to select gear that truly supports your horse’s well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Should I measure my horse with a blanket on?
A: No. You should always measure the horse directly on their body. Measuring over an existing blanket will result in an inaccurate, overly large measurement, leading to a blanket that shifts and bunches.
Q: What if my horse measures exactly between two sizes?
A: If you are buying a turnout blanket meant for rough wear, size up. A slightly larger blanket offers more room for movement and less pulling on the seams. If you are buying a stable sheet where excess fabric can cause tripping, stick to the smaller size, provided the fit around the chest is generous.
Q: Do I need to add inches to my measurement?
A: Yes, but mostly for the chest area. For the back length (the primary sizing number), the manufacturer’s chart accounts for the necessary ease. However, you must add extra inches to your actual chest circumference measurement to ensure the front closures aren’t tight.
Q: Can I use the same measurement for a saddle pad?
A: No. Measuring a horse for tack like saddle pads requires different measurements. Saddle pad sizing depends on the saddle size and the horse’s back shape under the saddle, not the full body length needed for a blanket.
Q: What is the difference between size 78 and 80?
A: Generally, this is a 2-inch difference in the back length measurement. For a horse measuring 79 inches, choosing a size 80 ensures the blanket covers the hindquarters adequately, whereas a size 78 might be slightly too short, especially if the horse has a sloped rump.