As the seasons change, ensuring your horse stays comfortable and protected from the elements becomes a priority. Choosing the right blanket or sheet can seem daunting with the variety of styles, weights, and materials available.

Horse coverings come in different weights to accommodate the cold winter or the buggy summer. You will choose a weight based on your climate and your horse’s environment.

You may also hear the term “horse rug” the words our friends in the UK use.

In this guide, we’ll break down the key factors to consider when selecting a horse blanket to keep your equine friend healthy, happy, and well-prepared for any weather.

At Cork N Mane **we offer embroidery services for horse blankets and saddle pads**. We are happy to put your logo or name on one of our blankets or one you provide. Check out our **store Threads & Tack**!

Types of Horse Blankets

Understanding the types of horse blankets available is the first step:

1. Turnout Blankets

Designed for outdoor use, turnout blankets are made to be waterproof, windproof, and durable.
They come in lightweight, medium-weight, and heavyweight options depending on the level of insulation your horse needs.
Best for: Horses spending time outside in rainy, windy, or cold weather.

2. Stable Blankets

Stable blankets are for indoor use and are not waterproof. They provide warmth for horses in barns or stalls.
Available in varying weights to suit different temperatures.
Best for: Horses kept indoors during colder weather.

3. Coolers

Coolers help wick moisture away from the horse’s body after exercise or a bath, preventing chills.
They are typically made from fleece or wool and allow the horse to cool down gradually.
Best for: After workouts, competitions, or bathing.

4. Sheets

Lightweight and breathable, sheets provide minimal warmth but protect against dirt, dust, and light wind or rain.
Fly sheets, specifically, are designed for insect protection during warmer months. Fly masks are also important “clothing” for your horse. Check out our article What Is A Fly Mask and Why You Need One
Best for: Mild weather, keeping your horse clean, or insect protection.

Key Factors to Consider

1. Weather and Climate

Determine the typical weather conditions where your horse lives. This may vary with the seasons. For instance, Cork N Mane is located in Kentucky. We have four seasons so need several types of blankets.

Use waterproof turnout blankets for rainy and snowy climates, and choose heavyweight options for cold winters. For mild weather, a lightweight turnout or stable sheet may suffice.

2. Your Horse’s Coat and Body Condition

Think about your horse’s coat in relation to the weather. Horses with a thick natural winter coat or in good body condition may need lighter blankets. Clipped horses or those with thin coats will require heavier blankets for adequate warmth. Older or underweight horses may also need additional protection during colder months.

3. Fit and Comfort

A blanket should fit snugly without rubbing or restricting movement.

Measure your horse from the center of the chest to the tail to determine the correct blanket size.

Look for blankets with features like:
- Adjustable straps (chest and belly)
- Shoulder gussets for freedom of movement
- Tail flaps for added coverage
- Fleece lining or padding at key rub points

4. Durability and Material

For horses turned out in the pasture, look for high-denier materials (e.g., 1200D) for added durability against tearing. The term “denier”, refers to the outer layer of a turnout blanket. The higher the denier number, the thicker the weave of the fabric, and the stronger it is. The most common types of deniers you will see are: 600D (medium), 1200D (heavy), or 1680D (very heavy.)

Waterproof and breathable fabrics are essential for turnout blankets to prevent overheating and wetness. Stable blankets can be made from softer materials since they don’t face as much wear and tear.

Author, Ame’s horse Rocket, getting ready for winter!

5. Maintenance and Care

Regular cleaning ensures the blanket remains effective and comfortable for your horse. This can be a chore. Ame recently took Rocket’s blanket to the laundromat to wash it in the large commercial machines. Shhh…

Waterproof turnout blankets may need periodic re-proofing.

Check for signs of wear, tear, or damage, and repair promptly to avoid discomfort or safety risks.

Common Blanket Weights and When to Use Them

Blankets come in varying levels of insulation, measured in grams of fill. Here’s a general guide:

No Fill (0g): For light protection in mild weather (e.g., sheets).
Lightweight (50g-100g): For cool weather or light rains.
Medium-weight (150g-250g): Ideal for temperatures between 30°F and 50°F.
Heavyweight (300g-450g): For very cold conditions, below 30°F.

Keep in mind that every horse is different. Monitor your horse’s comfort level and adjust blankets as needed.

We are pleased to offer farm accounts for your stable and help you with all your branding needs. **We do embroidery, screen printing, and engraving.** Logos, promotional items, staff clothing, halter names, and of course blankets! Text or email Susan for more information.

Tips for Blanket Safety

Blankets and sheets have straps and bindings. These are common places for wear and tear. Regularly check blankets for proper fit, wear, and shifting.

Always secure straps snugly but not too tight—you should be able to slide your hand between the strap and your horse. Remove blankets daily to check for any rub marks or skin issues.

Wash your horse’s coverings at the end of that season. Store blankets in a clean, dry place when not in use to extend their lifespan.

Speaking of safety you may also want to put a blanket on your horse while they are trailering. To protect them from chills and rubbing on the trailer dividers. Check out our article on Trailer Safety - Best Practices for You and Your Horse

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right blanket for your horse doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding your horse’s needs, the weather conditions, and the types of blankets available, you can make a well-informed choice. Whether it’s a sturdy turnout blanket for winter storms or a simple sheet for mild weather, the right blanket can ensure your horse stays comfortable and protected all season long.

Author, Ame Vanorio, is a writer, horse mom, and environmental educator.

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