Blanket warmth is set by fill weight: sheets have no fill, lightweights about 100 grams, mediumweights about 200 to 250 grams and heavyweights about 300 grams or more. Clipped horses and those without shelter need more warmth than horses with a full winter coat. Measure from the center of the chest, around the shoulder and side, to the tail, and choose turnout blankets with a denier suited to how hard your horse is on them.
Blankets help some horses and overheat others. Choose by fill weight, coat and conditions, not the calendar.
Fill weights
| Type | Fill | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Sheet | 0 g | Wind and rain protection |
| Lightweight | About 100 g | Cool weather, clipped horses |
| Mediumweight | About 200 to 250 g | Cold weather |
| Heavyweight | About 300 to 400 g | Very cold weather, clipped horses |
| Neck cover | Varies | Added warmth and coverage |
Temperature charts from blanket makers are a starting point. Clipping, shelter, age, body condition and wind change what a horse needs.
Turnout or stable
Turnout blankets have waterproof, breathable shells and tougher fabric for outdoor use. Stable blankets are not waterproof and are for indoor use.
Sizing
| Step | How |
|---|---|
| Measure | Center of chest, along the side, to the point of the buttock |
| Size | Many brands size in 2 to 3 inch steps; follow each brand’s chart |
| Check fit | Room at the shoulder, wither clearance, tail flap covers the tail, leg straps crossed |
Care
Check under blankets daily for rubs and moisture, keep them clean and repair tears quickly. Remove blankets on warm days.
Grooming is easier with the right tools; see our clipper guide. Browse horse clothing and care.
Common questions
How do I measure a horse for a blanket?
Measure in inches from the center of the chest, along the side, to the point of the buttock near the tail. That length is the blanket size in many brands.
Does my horse need a blanket?
Many healthy horses with a full coat, shelter and forage do fine without one. Clipped, older, thin or very young horses and those without shelter often need one.
What does denier mean on a turnout blanket?
The thickness of the outer fabric's fibers. Higher denier, such as 1200 or 1680, resists tearing better.
How do I tell if my horse is too warm?
Feel under the blanket at the shoulder and chest. Damp or hot skin means the blanket is too heavy.