Putting on a horse blanket is easy once you know the right steps. Always approach your horse slowly and calmly from the side. Speak softly to let your horse know you are near. A calm approach prevents sudden movements that could cause injury to you or the horse. This guide will show you exactly how to fit and secure horse blankets properly for maximum comfort and safety.
Why Blanketing Your Horse Matters
Blankets keep horses warm in cold weather. They also protect them from rain, snow, and wind. Some horses need blankets more than others. Older horses or those that are clipped need extra help staying warm. Choosing the right blanket is key. Knowing the difference between a sheet vs blanket for horses is important for temperature control. Sheets are lighter and mainly protect against bugs or light rain. Blankets have fill, offering more warmth.
Getting Started: Prep Work Before Blanketing
Before you even touch the blanket, you must prepare. This ensures a smooth process and a good fit.
Gathering Your Supplies
Make sure you have everything ready before you call your horse over. This saves time, especially in bad weather.
- The correct blanket or sheet.
- A clean area where the horse can stand still.
- If you are layering blankets on horses, have all layers ready.
Checking the Horse’s Condition
Look at your horse first. Is he very sweaty? If he is hot or sweaty, do not put a heavy blanket on him right away. A wet horse loses heat fast under a blanket.
- If the horse is sweaty, brush off the heavy dirt first.
- Let him cool down naturally in the open air for a while.
- If you must blanket a slightly damp horse, use a lighter cooler or sheet vs blanket for horses option first. This helps wick moisture away.
Sizing Your Blanket Correctly
A poorly sized blanket causes rubs and discomfort. Getting the right blanket sizes for horses is the most crucial step. Horse blankets are sized by the measurement from the center of the chest to the point of the tail.
Table 1: Approximate Horse Blanket Sizing Guide
| Horse Height (Hands) | Approximate Blanket Size (Draft) | Approximate Blanket Size (Standard) |
|---|---|---|
| 12.2 – 13.2 hh | 66 – 72 inches | 72 – 78 inches |
| 13.2 – 14.2 hh | 72 – 75 inches | 78 – 81 inches |
| 14.2 – 15.2 hh | 75 – 78 inches | 81 – 84 inches |
| 15.2 – 16.2 hh | 78 – 81 inches | 84 – 87 inches |
| Over 16.2 hh | 81 – 84 inches | 87 – 90+ inches |
Always check the manufacturer’s guide for specific brands. A good horse blanket fitting guide starts with the right size.
Step-by-Step Guide to Putting On a Horse Blanket
This process assumes you are putting on a single blanket. If you are layering blankets on horses, repeat these steps for each layer, putting the heaviest one on last.
Step 1: Approach and Position
- Approach your horse calmly from the side. Use a soft voice.
- Have the blanket folded neatly over your arm. The inside lining should face you as you approach.
- Stand near the shoulder, facing the horse’s rear end.
Step 2: Laying the Blanket Over the Back
- Gently drape the blanket over the horse’s back. The top edge should sit right where the mane meets the neck.
- Make sure the blanket hangs evenly on both sides. Check that the tail flap (if present) is toward the back.
- If the blanket shifts, hold it steady. Never pull hard on the edges.
Step 3: Securing the Chest Closures
This is the first main point for securing horse blankets properly.
- Move to the horse’s front. Reach under the blanket on one side.
- Find the first chest buckle or clip.
- Bring the strap or clip across the chest to the corresponding attachment point on the other side.
- Fasten the first strap. Pull it just tight enough so it feels snug but does not pinch the skin. You should be able to slip two fingers easily between the strap and the horse’s chest.
- Fasten the second chest strap (if available). Again, ensure a two-finger gap.
Tip for Chest Fits: If your blanket has snaps or buckles, try to use the middle hole first. This leaves room for tightening if the horse is between sizes or for future adjustments.
Step 4: Checking the Shoulder Area
The shoulders move a lot. A tight fit here causes severe rubbing.
- Check the space around the shoulder point. The blanket should lay smoothly over the shoulder without pulling tight across the point when the horse moves its leg forward.
- If the blanket is pulling backward, it might be too small or the chest straps are too loose.
Step 5: Adjusting the Surcingles (Belly Straps)
Surcingles keep the blanket from slipping sideways.
- Reach under the belly. Find the first surcingle strap.
- Bring it up and clip it to the ring on the opposite side.
- Adjust this strap so it is snug but allows the horse to breathe and move its belly easily. You should fit one or two fingers underneath.
- Repeat with the second surcingle. Make sure they cross in the center under the horse’s belly. They should not twist.
Step 6: Fastening the Leg Straps (If Applicable)
Leg straps loop around the horse’s hind legs to stop the blanket from spinning around.
- Take one strap and loop it under one hind leg, moving from front to back.
- Clip it to the ring on the opposite side of the blanket skirt.
- Repeat for the other leg.
- These straps should be snug enough to prevent spinning but loose enough that they do not cut into the inner thigh or cause chafing when the horse walks. This is key for preventing blanket chafing.
Step 7: Securing the Tail Strap
If your blanket has a tail cord or strap, use it. This helps keep the back edge down.
- Bring the strap under the tail and secure it. This is usually a simple tie or clip.
Step 8: Final Fit Check – The Walk Test
This is part of a thorough checking horse blanket fit routine.
- Ask the horse to take a few steps forward, then back up. Watch how the blanket moves.
- Ask the horse to swing one front leg forward as far as comfortable. Check the shoulder area again. Does the fabric pull tight?
- If the blanket spins or bunches up, you need to tighten the surcingles or leg straps. If the chest seems tight, loosen the chest buckles slightly.
Advanced Considerations for Blanketing
Different weather and needs require different approaches to securing horse blankets properly.
Layering Blankets on Horses
When it gets very cold, you might need to add layers. Always put the lightest layer on first, then the mid-layer, and the heaviest, waterproof layer last. This system traps air between the layers, providing superior warmth.
- Base Layer: Usually a thin fleece liner or a light quarter sheet.
- Mid Layer: A medium-weight stable blanket (often waterproof if turned out).
- Outer Layer: The heavy turnout rug, usually 300g fill or more.
When layering blankets on horses, ensure the chest buckles of the first layer are tucked under the second layer so they don’t rub. The fit of all layers must align perfectly to avoid slippage.
Types of Horse Blankets and When to Use Them
The right tool for the job makes securing horse blankets properly easier and more effective.
Table 2: Common Horse Blanket Types
| Blanket Type | Typical Fill Weight | Primary Use | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turnout Sheet | None (0g) | Rain/Mud protection; light warmth. | Waterproof/Breathable exterior. |
| Stable Blanket | Light to Heavy (50g to 300g+) | Cold weather in the stall. | Often less waterproof, but high warmth fill. |
| Turnout Blanket | Light to Heavy (50g to 400g) | Protection during turnout in wet/cold weather. | Fully waterproof and durable outer shell. |
| Cooler | None or light fleece | Drying a sweaty horse after work or bathing. | Wicks moisture away from the skin. |
Dealing with Blanketing Issues: Rubs and Chafing
The biggest downside to blanketing is friction. Preventing blanket chafing requires diligence. Rubs most commonly appear at the shoulders, chest, and over the hips where leg straps rub.
- Shoulder Rubs: These happen when the blanket is too tight across the chest or too short. Use shoulder gussets (darts that allow more fabric around the shoulder) or wear a fleece shoulder guard under the blanket.
- Chest Rubs: Caused by buckles pressing directly on the skin. Use breastplate covers or fleece pads under the buckles.
- Tail Head Rubs: Where the blanket hits the top of the tail. Ensure the tail flap is positioned correctly, or use a tail bag if necessary (used with caution).
If you see a rub starting, address it immediately. Change the blanket, use a barrier cream, or place a specialized liner underneath.
Alternative Horse Blanket Closures and Features
Modern blankets offer varied ways to secure the fit beyond standard buckles. Looking at alternative horse blanket closures can solve specific fit problems.
Front Closures
- Buckles and Straps: The traditional method. Great for strong hold but requires careful adjustment.
- Quick Clip/Snap Closures: Use heavy-duty snaps instead of buckles. These are fast to use but can wear out faster if constantly stressed.
- Hook and Loop (Velcro): Often used on liners or chest straps for quick adjustments. Less durable for high-stress areas.
Belly and Leg Strap Variations
- Cross Surcingles: Standard; go underneath the belly crossing in the middle.
- Removable Surcingles: Some high-end blankets let you take these off if the horse is stalled and won’t move much.
- Elastic Inserts: High-quality blankets often have elastic sections near the surcingle attachments. This gives more stretch when the horse lies down or rolls, aiding in preventing blanket chafing.
Neck Covers and Hoods
For maximum protection, especially when layering blankets on horses, use a neck cover.
- Ensure the neck cover fits high on the poll (the top of the head) but does not restrict the throat when the horse lowers its head to graze.
- If using a detachable hood, make sure the clips connecting it to the blanket body are strong and secure, as these areas take a lot of stress.
Winter Horse Blanket Care and Maintenance
Proper upkeep extends the life of your blankets and keeps your horse safe. Good winter horse blanket care is essential for durability.
Cleaning Blankets
Dirt and sweat break down the waterproof coating of turnout rugs.
- Brush off heavy mud and debris before washing.
- Use specialized rug washes—regular detergents can strip the waterproofing.
- Wash according to the label instructions. Many heavy blankets require large commercial washers.
- After washing, the blanket must be thoroughly air-dried before storage or re-use.
Re-Waterproofing
Over time, the waterproof barrier fades.
- If water soaks into the outer fabric instead of beading up, it needs re-waterproofing.
- Use a spray-on or wash-in waterproofing product designed for outdoor gear.
Storage
Store blankets clean and dry in airtight bins or hung neatly in a dry tack room. Damp storage leads to mildew, which harms the fabric and can irritate the horse’s skin.
Adjusting for Activity: Sheet vs Blanket for Horses and Turnout
Knowing when to use which item is a key part of the horse blanket fitting guide.
If your horse is clipped for work, they usually need more warmth. If they live out 24/7, they need excellent waterproofing.
- Light Work/Mild Weather: A breathable sheet vs blanket for horses choice might be a medium-weight turnout sheet (no fill) if it is raining, or a 100g blanket if it’s chilly but dry.
- Heavy Clipping/Very Cold: Use layering blankets on horses—start with a stable liner, then add a heavy turnout blanket (250g or more).
Remember that a blanket that fits well allows for natural movement. If a horse needs to roll or lie down, the blanket needs enough slack, especially around the shoulders and hindquarters, to accommodate this without tearing or pinching. This is why checking the fit after the horse moves is vital. The initial fitting is just the start of checking horse blanket fit throughout the day.
FAQ Section
Q: How tight should the chest straps be when securing horse blankets properly?
A: Chest straps should be snug enough so the blanket doesn’t shift forward, but loose enough that you can easily slip two fingers between the strap and your horse’s chest bone. Too tight causes chafing and restricts breathing.
Q: Do I need leg straps on my blanket?
A: Yes, leg straps are highly recommended, especially for active horses or when layering blankets on horses for turnout. They are crucial for preventing blanket chafing by stopping the blanket from spinning around the horse’s body, which can otherwise cause severe rubbing over the hips.
Q: What is the difference between a stable blanket and a turnout blanket?
A: A stable blanket is designed for use indoors where it is dry; it focuses on warmth (fill). A turnout blanket is designed for outdoor use; it has both fill for warmth and a strong, waterproof outer shell.
Q: What should I do if my horse keeps getting shoulder rubs from the blanket?
A: First, verify the blanket sizes for horses are correct. If the size is right, try a blanket with shoulder gussets or use fleece protectors specifically designed for the shoulder area. Ensure the blanket is not too tight across the chest.
Q: When should I consider layering blankets on horses?
A: You should consider layering when the ambient temperature drops significantly, or if your horse has been clipped and cannot maintain its own body heat. Always adjust the layers based on the horse’s actual body temperature (feeling the neck or shoulder area).
Q: Is it safe to use alternative horse blanket closures like Velcro?
A: Velcro is fine for light use, such as on liners or hood straps, but it is generally less reliable than buckles or heavy-duty snaps for primary chest or surcingle closures on turnout gear due to wear and tear from dirt and stress.
Q: How often should I check the fit after putting the blanket on?
A: Check the fit immediately after securing all straps. Then, check again after the horse has moved around, rolled, or if you notice any obvious bunching. A daily visual check is part of good winter horse blanket care.