Horses are majestic animals with unique temperaments, characteristics and uses. It is essential to consider their comfort and care. Choosing the right gear for your horse is important for their health and comfort. Same as for a horse’s Blanket. It is essential to choose the right Blanket for their warmth, comfort and protection. A well-fitting blanket not only shields your horse from the elements but also prevents injuries and rubs. You need accurate measurements to ensure proper fit. In this article we will walk you through the process of measuring for a horse blanket and tips for finding the best Blanket for your horse.

Why Proper Blanket Fit Matters

A properly fitting horse blanket is essential for your horse’s health, safety, and comfort. An ill-fitting blanket can cause various issues, from skin irritation to physical discomfort.

Comfort: a well-fitted blanket allows your horse to move freely. When a blanket is too tight, it may lead to chafing, pressure points, restrict your horse's movements and even sores, especially around the withers and shoulders. A blanket that’s too loose increases the rubs or even accidents and can create friction.

Protection: proper fit also ensures your horse stays protected and warm. A sung-fitting blanket retains heat more effectively in colder weather. A well-fitted blanket shields your horse from wind and rain without exposing or gaping sensitive areas.

Durability: good and well-fitted means better security; closures and straps sit correctly, preventing the Blanket from twisting or sliding during wear and tear. The right fit promotes peace of mind for horse owners beyond physical comfort. You can rest assured knowing your horse is cosy, protected, and safe from the elements.

Tools you will need To measure your horse for a blanket, you will need a few simple tools to ensure ease and accuracy.

Flexible Tape Measure: for taking accurate measurements along the curves of your horse’s body, a soft tailor’s measuring tape is ideal. If you don’t have one, a piece of twine or string can be used and measured against a ruler later.

Helper: having a second person assist can make the process smoother especially if your horse is fidgety. A helper helps to keep your horse calm and can hold the tape measure steady.

Pen and Paper: help to record your measurements immediately to avoid mixing them up or forgetting.

Treats or Calming Tools: this helps to keep your horse relaxed during the process is crucial. A calming routine or a few treats can help them cooperate.

Level Surface: ensure your horse is standing on even ground squarely. This provides the most accurate measurements and helps to prevent errors caused by uneven footing. You will be well-prepared to take precise measurements by gathering these simple tools. And ensure a proper fit for your horse’s Blanket and comfort.

 

Preparing Your Horse

To ensure accurate measurements and a stress-free experience, proper preparation is essential for both you and your horse. Here’s how to get your horse ready.

Choose a Quiet Location: select a distraction-free and calm area, preferably on level ground. This will help you to take accurate measurements and help your horse stay relaxed.

Clean Your Horse: take off any halters, tack or existing blankets so you can measure directly against your horse’s body without interference.

Keep Your Horse Calm: use gentle pats, treats, or soothing words to keep your horse relaxed. Spend a few moments helping them settle before starting if your horse is nervous.

Have A Helper On Hand: enlist someone to help hold your horse steady, if possible, while you measure. You will create a stress-free and smooth ensuring accurate measurements for a well-fitting blanket.

Step-By-Step Guide to Measuring Your Horse

Measure for The Length: the length measurement determines the size of the Blanket. Follow these steps.

Place the end of the tape measure just below the base of the neck, the centre point of your horse’s chest.

Extend the tape along the widest part of your horse’s shoulder, over the barrel, and toward the tail.

End the measurement at the point where the tail meets the body. This is the length you will use to determine the blanket size.

Measure for The Drop: the measurements of the drop ensure the Blanket covers your horse’s sides adequately.

Measure from the top of the withers down to the midline of your horse’s belly.

If the Blanket will provide sufficient coverage without being too short or too long.

Measure for Neck Coverage: for a Blanket with integrated neck covers or neck attachments. Measure from the base of the horse’s ears down along the curve of the neck to the top of the horse’s withers. This measurement ensures the neck portion of the Blanket fits comfortably without restricting movement or gaping. Check The Shoulder Area to avoid rubbing. Measure across the width of your horse’s chest from one shoulder point to the other. This measurement helps to ensure the Blanket allows for shoulder movement without being too tight.

Evaluate Tail Coverage: if the Blanket includes a tail flap.

Measure from the point of the horse’s buttock to the base of the tail. These measurements determine if the flap will provide adequate protection without being oversized.

Choosing The Right Blanket Based On Measurements

Now you have the measurements of the horse’s Blanket, compare them to the sizing chart provided by the blanket manufacturer. These sizes typically range from 60 inches for large horses. It is important to remember that the sizing of a horse’s Blanket can vary between brands. So, always refer to the specific size chart.

Common Blanket Style: choosing the right blanket style depends on their need, activity level and the weather.

Stable Blanket: These Blankets are designed for indoor use and provide comfort and warmth but are not waterproof. They are ideal for keeping your horse cosy during cold weather.

Turnout Blanket: These blankets are waterproof, durable and perfect for outdoor use. They offer protection against wind, rain and mud. They come in various weights for different climates.

Coolers: These blanket blankets are lightweight and breathable and are often used to wick away sweat after exercise and prevent your horse from catching a chill.

Fly Sheets: these blankets are made of lightweight mesh and shield your horse from biting insects. Fly sheets also protect from UV rays during warm weather.

Rain Sheets: the rain sheets are waterproof; lightweight Blankets provide protection in wet conditions without added insulation.

Adjusting The Blanket

• Proper adjustment ensures your horse’s Blanket fits comfortably and securely.
• Start by fastening the chest straps. Ensures they are snug but not too tight or too loose and allows free movement.
• Adjust the belly straps next, leaving enough room for a hand width between the straps and also prevent your horse’s belly from pinching.
• For leg straps, cross them under the belly and fasten them. Ensures they are secure but not restrictive, allowing your horse to move freely.
• Check the fit around the shoulder and wither to avoid rubbing or pressure points.
• Regularly inspect the Blanket to maintain a safe and comfortable fit.

Common Fitting Problems and Solutions

Blanket Slipping Backward: if the horse’s Blanket is shifted towards the hindquarters, it means the Blanket may be too large or improperly adjusted. Choose a smaller size and ensure the belly and chest straps are securely fastened.

Gapping at The Shoulders: when the Blanket is too tight or lacks sufficient coverage, the gapping may occur at the shoulder. Consider a blanket with gussets or switch to a large size for better shoulder freedom.

Rubbing or Chafing: friction around the withers, chest or shoulder can cause sores. Adjust the straps, use a shoulder guard or choose a blanket with a softer lining.

Too Short or Long: a blanket that does not reach the drags or tail on the wrong size. Measure your horse accurately and compare it with the manufacturer’s size chart.

Caring for Your Horse Blanket

Proper care and maintenance can extend your horse’s blanket life. Regularly inspect the Blanket for tears, signs of wear, and loose straps and repair any damage promptly. Clean the Blanket according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Most can be washed with a mild detergent or cold water.

Avoid fabric softeners as they can reduce waterproofing.

Dry the Blanket naturally away from direct heat and dry completely before storing it. Use a breathable storage bag to protect it from moisture and dust during off-season. Routine maintenance ensures your Blanket remains clean, comfortable, and durable for your horse year-round.

Conclusion:

Measuring for a horse blanket may seem daunting at first. But it is a simple process when broken down into manageable easy steps. Taking accurate measurements ensures your horse stays protected, comfortable, and happy. The right fit makes all the difference, whether you’re buying a turnout blanket for rainy days or a stable blanket for winter warmth. You are now equipped to choose the perfect Blanket for your horse with this guide.