Why a Winter Blanket?

When to Blanket (and When Not To)

Here are some general guidelines every horse owner can follow:

Unclipped horse with a full winter coat:

Often comfortable without a blanket when temperatures stay above 40 °F (4–5 °C). Once temperatures dip into the 30s °F (0–5 °C) or below — especially with wind, rain, or wet turnout — consider a medium or heavy blanket for added protection.

Clipped, senior, or thin horses:

These horses lose heat faster and need coverage sooner.

As a rough guide:

Light blanket: 50–40 °F

Medium blanket: 40–30 °F

Heavy blanket: below 30 °F

Stable vs. turnout:

Horses that spend long hours outside need a turnout blanket—waterproof and breathable to handle the elements. Horses kept mainly indoors may do well with a stable blanket, which is lighter and not waterproof.

Don’t blanket just because you’re cold: Base your decision on your horse’s coat, age, condition, and environment. Over-blanketing can lead to rubbing, restricted movement, or overheating.

Always be prepared: Keep at least one well-fitted blanket on hand. Weather can change quickly, and it’s easier to remove a blanket than to wish you had one during a cold snap.

What to Look for When Buying Durable outer material (Denier): Higher denier (like 1200D or 1680D) means tougher fabric, ideal for playful turnout horses.

Waterproof and breathable: Ensures your horse stays dry without trapping moisture underneath.

Fill weight: Blankets are rated by grams of insulation. Match the fill (0 g sheet, 100–250 g medium, 300 g+ heavy) to the temperature, wind, and your horse’s needs.

Fit: Measure from the center of the chest to the tail point. Check shoulder and wither areas for comfort and coverage—poor fit causes rubs or slipping.

Functional features: Look for leg arches, adjustable straps, a tail flap, optional neck covers, reflective trim, and easy-to-use closures. Warranty and durability: A solid warranty adds peace of mind for high-use turnout blankets. Care and storage: Wash with mild detergent, air-dry, and re-waterproof when needed. Store clean and dry to extend the life of your blanket.

What's your favorite blanket?