Choosing the Right Blanket for Your Horse
Choosing the correct blanket for your horse can be a bit overwhelming in the beginning.
The first step is to try and determine the correct size. Measure your horse from the center of his chest going around his side to a point in the center of his tail. This will be the size in inches that he needs. Be sure that blankets do not press on the withers and cause sores. A well fitting blanket has no pressure points and will remain in place when the horse lies down or rolls.
If your horse tends to loose the hair on his shoulders spray them with show sheen before putting on his clothes. Blanket liners also help prevent these unsightly bald spots.
The second step is to decide what types of blankets you will need. There are many choices, but the basic ones are a turnout sheet, a medium weight and a heavyweight. Turnout sheets provide protection from the weather, but no warmth. They are great for chilly wet days and also can be used as a waterproof outer layer. Medium weights usually have around 200g or 220g of polyfil and are perfect for most of the year. For some, a medium weight is all that you will need for warmth. A heavyweight is used for very cold weather or horses that are clipped and need extra warmth. They usually have around 360g of polyfil.
The other options you can decide on are a regular neck or a high neck and also what denier fabric you would like. The denier determines how durable the blanket will be and what price range it will be in. There are also lots of options of non waterproof layers such as liners and cotton or fleece sheets.
Any of the staff at Triangle Horse Sports will be happy to help you make the right choices to fit your horse and your budget or just to answer any questions you may have!
