Blanket Education

Before you shop for a blanket, make sure you're familiar with typical blanket features and the various materials used. These definitions will help you decide which blanket is right for your horse.

By Alana Harrison

Denier: Number of threads per square inch of fabric; used to define nylon strength. The higher the number, the heavier and more durable the fabric. A good range for most needs is 600 to 1,200.

Loft: the amount of air space in fiberfill insulation. The greater the loft, the more air space, puffiness and insulating value.

Breathable: Fabric that allows heat and moisture to travel away from your horse's body, rather than trapping it under the blanket.

Ripstop: Smooth, tear-resistant nylon.

Density: The denser a blanket, the lower its insulating value. Try pinching the blanket--the easier it is to compress, the warmer it'll keep your horse.

Waterproof: Waterproof materials will keep your horse dry in wet weather, but may have less breathability. If you're looking for a waterproof blanket, consider one that allows water vapor--but not water--to travel through the fabric.

Water-resistant: Often more breathable than waterproof materials, water-resistant blankets are a good option if your horse isn't likely to be out in wet weather.

Sizing Up Your Horse

To determine your horse's blanket size, measure him from the center of his chest (in between his pectoral muscles), through the widest part of his back leg to the center of his tail. The number of inches corresponds to his blanket size.

Many blanket companies manufacture blankets to fit particular breeds. For example, different blanket contours are designed for a Quarter Horse's muscular build in comparison to those made for a taller, leaner Thoroughbred.

Make sure your horse has plenty of room to move, but not so much room that he'll get caught in the straps and surcingles. If they're too loose and he lies down, he could get a leg caught and tear the blanket as he stands up. If the blanket is tight in the chest and doesn't cover your horse's hips, it's too small. If it hangs loosely in the front or more than a couple of inches below his belly on the sides, and completely covers his tail, it's too big.