Choosing the Right Blanket
Editorial by Horse Tack Co.
Choosing the right blanket can be overwhelming. But, ACTHA's official horse and rider outfitter, Horse Tack Co demystifies the process. Rain, snow, sleet, or sunburn can be as harmful to horses as humans. A properly fitted blanket also protects from flies or mosquitoes that spread diseases like equine encephalitis. Additionally, blankets are used to prevent chills after exercise.
1. What type of blanket? Whether to purchase a stable blanket or a turnout sheet depends if you need a waterproof blanket. Stable blankets are not waterproof, and are used when your horse is in the barn. They have a center seam and rump darts for a contoured design. Full hoods are also available. Turnout blankets and sheets are waterproof and can be found in standard and combo. Standard blankets provide coverage from withers to tail. Combo or detach-a-neck blankets provide coverage from behind the ears to the tail. The designs of a turnout blanket or sheet are “drape” like and roomier, allowing for better protection against weather.
2. Will the blanket keep my horse warm? It depends on how much fill is in the blanket. The fill can be either Polyfill or Fiberfill and is measured in grams. The higher the number, the warmer the blanket. Determining the weight depends on your horse’s environment and the condition of your horse’s coat. Besides climate, keep in mind if your horse has a light or heavy coat, is body clipped, turned out with or without shelter, or is in a barn.
3. Will my horse's blanket rip? Your horse’s blanket might get caught on a board, or one of his pasture friends might think of his blanket as a chew toy. But, consider the turnout blanket’s outer shell. Also known as “denier,” this strength is determined by thread thickness. The higher the denier number, the stronger the material strength.
ACTHA Monthly | November 2014 | 32