A winter horse blanket can help keep your horse comfortable, protect his coat and increase feed efficiency. Ensuring the blanket fits comfortably and properly can make a difference in how effective the blanket is, and how long it lasts. A horse blanket is an investment in your horse's health and happiness, so choosing the right blanket and size is the first step.
A horse blanket can keep him warm and lower his feed requirements. If your horse doesn't need to burn as many calories to stay warm, he doesn't have to eat as much. That's especially valuable for older horses that may struggle with eating enough to stay in condition.
How to Measure Your Horse for a Blanket
Measuring your horse is quick and easy. You’ll need:
- A soft tape measure or a long piece of string and tape measure
- A helper
For the most accurate measurement:
-
Tie your horse and have them stand square on level ground
-
Place one end of the tape or string at the center of the chest
-
Run it along the side of the barrel, staying level and snug
-
End at the center of the tail
Make sure the tape lies flat against the body and is pulled snug. If you use a string, mark the end point and measure it against a hard tape measure to find your blanket size.
That final number, measured in inches, is your horse’s blanket size.
What If My Horse Measures Between Blanket Sizes?
Most of Weaver Equine's horse blankets are sized in 3-inch increments (such as 69", 72", 75", 78"). If your horse measures between sizes, it’s generally best to size up to the nearest option.
For instance, if your horse measures 70", choosing a 72" blanket is usually the better fit, even if the measurement is closer to the smaller size. Adjustable chest closures and leg straps help fine-tune the fit.
How Should a Horse Blanket Fit?
After sizing correctly, check the fit in key areas:
Chest and shoulders: The blanket should close comfortably without pulling or gaping
Withers: The blanket should sit just in front of the withers without pressing down
Length: It should end just before the tail, not hang past it, unless it has a tail cover
Leg straps: Adjust so you can fit a hand between the strap and the horse
Your horse should be able to walk, graze, lie down and roll without the blanket shifting, pulling or otherwise restricting motion or rubbing.
Choosing the right blanket in the right size can make a difference in your horse's winter experience.