Can I measure a horse for a blanket myself? Yes, you can easily measure your horse for a blanket yourself with a few simple tools and steps. Determining horse blanket size correctly is vital for your horse’s comfort and safety during cold weather. A poorly fitting blanket can rub, restrict movement, or let cold air in. This guide will show you exactly how to take the right measurements for a winter blanket.
Why Correct Horse Blanket Sizing Matters
Getting the right fit is crucial. A horse blanket, especially a heavy winter one, needs to stay put. If it is too small, it pulls across the chest and shoulders. This causes rubbing and sores. If the blanket is too big, it can shift around. This allows cold wind and rain underneath, defeating the purpose of the winter protection. Knowing how to size a horse rug saves you money and keeps your horse happier. We will focus on measuring a horse for a blanket using industry-standard points.
Essential Tools for Measuring Your Horse
Before you start measuring horse for turnout blanket, gather your supplies. You do not need fancy gear.
- A flexible measuring tape: A soft tailor’s tape works best. Avoid using a stiff metal tape measure.
- A helper (optional but recommended): A second person can help keep the horse still.
- A calm horse: A relaxed horse stands still, making accurate measurement possible.
- A pen and paper: To record your numbers right away.
Horse Blanket Measurement Points: Where to Measure
Properly measuring a horse for a blanket involves taking several key measurements. These points help translate your horse’s unique shape into standard sizing labels found on a horse blanket sizing chart. We will cover the main points needed for most blanket styles.
Measuring The Horse’s Body Length (Back Length)
This is the most important measurement for determining horse blanket size. It runs from the center of the horse’s wither to the base of the tail.
- Locate the Wither: Find the highest point of the horse’s shoulder, right where the mane ends. This is the true wither.
- Locate the Tail Base: Find where the tail hair naturally starts to grow from the hindquarters.
- Measure: Keep the measuring tape straight along the horse’s side. Measure from the center of the wither straight down to the tail dock (the bony part of the tail).
- Record: Write this number down. This number usually matches the size marked on the blanket tag (e.g., a 78-inch measurement means a size 78 blanket).
Measuring The Chest (For Front Closures)
The fit across the chest is vital for comfort and keeping the blanket secure. This is part of a good horse blanket fitting guide.
- Position: Have your helper stand the horse square (all four legs evenly placed).
- Measure Around: Measure around the fullest part of the chest. Start right in front of the point of the shoulder, going around the chest and meeting back at the point of the shoulder. This measurement dictates the width of the blanket front.
- Note on Adjustments: Most quality blankets have adjustable chest buckles. However, this measurement tells you if you need a “deep cut” or a “standard cut” blanket if your horse has a very broad chest.
Measuring The Shoulder (For Rub Prevention)
Rubbing at the shoulder is a common issue. Knowing the shoulder slope helps when picking a style.
- Measure Point to Point: Measure from the point of one shoulder, across the chest, to the point of the other shoulder. This helps assess how much shoulder room is needed.
- Shoulder Angle Check: Look at how the blanket sits. The blanket material should lay smoothly over the shoulder area without pulling tight when the horse moves forward.
Measuring Depth (For Drop Height)
The depth measurement shows how far down the side of the horse the blanket needs to go. This is important for rain and snow protection.
- Start Point: Start measuring at the center of the wither (the same spot used for back length).
- End Point: Measure straight down to the bottom of the horse’s belly, just behind the elbow. You want to stop just above where the blanket would end to allow for leg movement.
- Record: This measurement helps you select blankets with a “deep drop” versus a “standard drop.” A deep drop is great for taller horses or very rainy climates.
Measuring Belly Girth (For Surcingle Placement)
This measurement is mainly for blankets that use belly surcingingles (straps under the belly).
- Placement: Measure just behind the front legs, going around the horse’s barrel.
- Fit: The straps should fit snugly but allow two fingers to slip underneath easily.
Deciphering The Horse Blanket Sizing Chart
Once you have your measurements, you need to compare them to the horse blanket sizing chart provided by the manufacturer. This is where horse blanket measurements explained becomes important. Manufacturers use different standards, so always check the specific brand’s chart.
Common Sizing Discrepancies
Different brands use different systems:
- Inches (Most Common in the US/UK): Directly correlates to the back length measurement (e.g., 75, 78, 81 inches).
- Hands (Older or Regional): Sometimes blanket sizes are listed in hands (1 hand = 4 inches). If your measurement is 78 inches, divide by 4 to get the hand equivalent (19.5 hands).
How to Apply Measurements to a Sizing Chart
Use the following table as a general guide, but always verify with the seller’s specific chart.
| Horse Back Length (Inches) | Suggested Blanket Size (Inches) | Typical Horse Size Association |
|---|---|---|
| 69 – 72 | 72 | Small Ponies / Smaller Arabians |
| 73 – 75 | 75 | Standard Ponies / Smaller Quarter Horses |
| 76 – 78 | 78 | Average Warmbloods / Standard Thoroughbreds |
| 79 – 81 | 81 | Larger Thoroughbreds / Larger Warmbloods |
| 82 – 84 | 84 | Draft Crosses / Larger Sport Horses |
If your horse measures between sizes, it is usually safer to size up, especially for a winter blanket where bulk is added by insulation. Sizing up slightly gives room for thicker liners and prevents chest pulling.
Special Considerations for Winter Blankets
Winter blankets, or “turnouts,” are usually thicker than summer sheets. This added bulk affects the fit. When determining horse blanket size for winter, account for the fill weight.
The Impact of Fill Power
Winter blankets come in different fill weights (e.g., 100g, 200g, 300g, or heavy/extra heavy).
- Thicker Blankets: A very thick (heavy fill) blanket might feel slightly snugger than a thin sheet of the exact same size because the insulation takes up internal space.
- Layering: If you plan to layer a lightweight blanket under your main winter blanket, you might need to size up a half-size on the main blanket to ensure the chest buckles do not overlap and strain.
Chest and Shoulder Fit with Winter Fill
The primary concern with heavy winter blankets is ensuring the shoulder seam does not restrict movement. If the blanket is too short, the front buckles will pull tight, and the blanket will ride up the horse’s neck when they move their head down to graze.
- Forward Movement Test: Once the blanket is on, have your horse walk forward and stretch their neck down. Does the blanket stay back near the tail, or does it slide forward towards the withers? If it slides forward significantly, the length might be okay, but the chest piece is restricting movement, or the blanket is too short overall.
Finalizing the Fit: The Horse Blanket Fitting Guide
Taking the measurements is just the first step. The final test is putting the blanket on and observing the fit. This is crucial for correct horse blanket size.
Checking the Neckline and Wither
The blanket should sit smoothly over the wither.
- Wither Clearance: There should be a little room between the blanket edge and the top of the wither. If the blanket has a “snug” or “contoured” wither, it should follow the shape without pressing down hard.
- Neck Overlap: The front closure should meet comfortably at the chest. You should be able to fit two fingers between the chest piece and your horse’s chest when buckled.
Assessing Side Drop and Leg Movement
A good fit maximizes protection without impeding motion.
- Side Check: The blanket should cover the horse down to about mid-barrel. It should not be so long that it covers the elbows or rubs the hindquarters when the horse moves.
- Hind Leg Clearance: Ask your horse to walk and trot in a small circle. The hind leg straps (leg gussets) should not pull the blanket forward or bunch up around the hips. If the blanket is too short, you will see the back edge lift up significantly when the horse moves its back legs.
Examining Surcingle Placement
If your blanket has cross surcingles (straps under the belly), they must be snug enough to prevent twisting but loose enough for comfort.
- Tightness Test: The straps should cross neatly under the belly. You should be able to place one or two fingers flatly between the strap and the horse’s skin. Too loose, and the blanket flips. Too tight, and it can restrict breathing or cause rubbing underneath.
Dealing with Specific Horse Shapes
Not all horses fit the standard mold. Some require special attention when measuring horse for turnout blanket.
Broad or Deep Chests (e.g., Drafts, Cobs)
Horses with very wide chests often need blankets specifically designed for them (often labeled “Draft Cut” or “Broad Fit”).
- If a standard blanket fits perfectly on the length (back measurement) but the chest buckles are straining or leaving gaps, try that size in a wide-chest model. The overall length usually remains the same, but the chest panel is wider.
Sloping Shoulders (e.g., Arabians, some Warmbloods)
Horses with very sloped shoulders need blankets that allow for that angle.
- Look for blankets featuring shoulder gussets. These are fabric panels sewn into the shoulder area that allow the blanket to spread out when the horse moves its front legs forward, preventing the fabric from pulling tight across the chest.
Narrow or Fine Horses (e.g., Thoroughbreds)
Fine-boned or narrower horses might find standard blankets shift too much, even if the back length is correct.
- These horses benefit from blankets with more secure closures, perhaps opting for a blanket with a full neck cover attached, which helps anchor the blanket better at the front. Ensure the chest closures are snug.
The Importance of Checking Regularly
Even with the correct horse blanket size, checks are needed, especially in winter. Horses lose or gain weight quickly in the cold months depending on feed intake.
- Weight Fluctuation: A blanket that fit perfectly in November might be too loose by January if the horse has lost condition, or too tight if they have gained weight.
- Seasonal Coat Changes: A horse fully clipped for winter will likely need a slightly different fit than the same horse with a full, thick winter coat. The coat adds bulk.
Summary of Horse Blanket Measurement Points
To recap, here are the critical horse blanket measurement points you must record for accurate sizing:
- Back Length: Wither center to tail dock (This dictates the primary size number).
- Chest Circumference: Around the fullest part of the chest (Determines front closure fit).
- Shoulder to Shoulder: Across the chest (Assesses overall width requirement).
- Depth: Wither center down past the belly (Determines drop height).
Using these four numbers, cross-referencing them with a reliable horse blanket sizing chart, and performing the on-horse fitting check will ensure you achieve the correct horse blanket size for optimal warmth and comfort this winter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I know if my horse blanket is too small?
A blanket is too small if it pulls tightly across the chest, rides up high on the wither, rubs the skin raw just behind the point of the shoulder, or if the back length ends significantly short of the tail dock (more than 2-3 inches short). When the horse moves, a small blanket will often look like it is trying to slide off the hind end.
Should I measure my horse over their winter coat?
If you are buying a blanket to use over their existing winter coat, you should ideally measure them when they have that coat on, or size up slightly from the measurement taken when they are clipped. The thick winter hair adds bulk, similar to a light layer of padding.
What if my horse is between sizes on the chart?
If your measurement falls exactly between two sizes (e.g., your horse measures 77 inches, and the chart goes from 75 to 78), it is generally recommended to go up to the larger size (78 inches). This extra length ensures better coverage over the hindquarters and prevents the blanket from pulling tight on the shoulders during movement.
Are horse blanket measurements the same for every type of blanket (turnout vs. stable)?
While the core back length measurement remains the same for determining horse blanket size, the depth and strap configuration can differ. Turnout blankets often need a deeper drop for weather protection, while stable blankets might have a less robust chest closure system. Always use the specific horse blanket measurement guide provided for the type of rug you are purchasing.
How tight should the leg straps (surcingles) be?
Leg straps, or belly surcingingles, should be snug enough that they keep the blanket from twisting or slipping off during hard movement or rolling, but loose enough to avoid chafing. You should be able to slide two fingers comfortably between the strap and your horse’s belly.