It is common in some areas of the world to see a horse with a blanket on. Blankets do serve a purpose, but every horse may not need one. Some horses need blankets for protection from wind, rain, and snow.
Why does a horse need a blanket?
In some circumstances, your horse could benefit from having a blanket. A few factors play a role in deciding if your horse needs a blanket. Age, body condition, and shelter are all deciding factors. For example, if your horse is older and does not have shelter from the elements, it is recommended to use a blanket. Some older horses that are thin and not able to keep weight can benefit from a blanket also.
Blankets are recommended to be used in wet, cold weather. If it’s cold outside, but no precipitation, then your horse can keep itself warm without a blanket. Horses have a natural blanket which is their fur. They puff up their fur to create an insulation barrier that keeps them warm. However, if the fur was to get wet then that changes. When the fur is wet, it gets flattened down and is not able to puff up. This prevents them from creating that natural barrier.
If you have shelter for your horse then it is not always necessary to blanket your horse. If your horse is like mine, then it may be smart to have a blanket on hand! My horse has a shelter but still chooses to go out in the nasty weather. I only use a blanket when I know it’s going to snow or rain in the winter.
Clipped horses need more insulation as they do not have their natural insulation. You may need to blanket a clipped horse more often, even if it isn’t snowing or raining.
What blanket options are there?
When purchasing a blanket, it is important to do your research and get the best bang for your buck. Blankets are an expensive investment so it is important to get one that you are satisfied with.
Blankets come in a variety of options- in different weights and features. There are heavyweight, medium weight, and lightweight blankets. What determines the weight of the blanket is the gram fill. For example, a lightweight blanket can only have around 80 grams of insulation whereas a heavyweight would have over 380 grams of fill.
Some horses may not even need insulation, instead, you could get a sheet. Sheets are like blankets but do not have any insulation. My horse, for example, only has a sheet. A sheet keeps her warm and dry in wet weather. I also have a stable sheet I can use as an underlayer if it drops to negative temperatures.
Blankets have many feature options. You can get one with a hood, tail flap, or even an attachable full neck feature. There are different styles of how the blanket stays on, belly band or cross-belly surcingles.
Some horses can easily tear up a blanket. It’s important to make sure that the blanket is fitted properly so your horse does not get hung or caught on anything. If something was to happen to the blanket, then it could easily be replaced if it has a warranty! Since a blanket is a big purchase, some companies offer warranties that will allow you to get a replacement if something was to happen. I purchased a blanket from SmartPak and my horse only used it for a short period of time before it got damaged. My horse had gotten the blanket hung on her hay net and tore the front blanket straps. I immediately contacted SmartPak and they sent me a replacement! I was so relieved that I had bought a blanket with a warranty. Blanketing tips:
Measure your horse to find the right size blanket
Make sure your horse does not sweat under the blanket
Provide more insulation for clipped horses
Braid your horse’s tail before blanketing, this will help keep it clean in the winter
Take the blanket off regularly and check for rubs
Face all clips on the blanket towards your horse so it can't get caught on something
Conclusion Ultimately, you as the horse owner can decide if your horse needs a blanket or not. My horse has greatly benefited from having one, and I think it is a great purchase to make. Is your horse going to stay warm and cozy this winter?
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