Horse blankets 101: What features are most important in a horse blanket?

September 2, 10:17 AMEquestrian ExaminerLinda Ann Nickerson

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What features count most in horse blankets?

Tack store displays, equine supply catalogs and online horse product shops feature seemingly unlimited choices of horse blankets.

Horse lovers may seem stumped at the many options. (CTRL-click here to read Horse Blankets 101: How can you choose a blanket for your horse?)

What are the most important product features to consider, in selecting and purchasing a horse blanket?

Durability

Horse blankets must be extremely hardy and durable to withstand energetic outdoor play, as equines exercise in turnout pastures. Although materials may vary, the best horse blankets are sewn in sturdy fabrics with reinforced stitching. Channel quilting or another rugged pattern of construction helps to keep linings and inner fills intact and in place. Sewn-in straps must be firmly affixed.

Fabric

Outdoor turnout blankets for horses must be both waterproof and breathable. Modern textile technologies offer quick-drying fabrics for horse blankets (and other athletic apparel) that boast the best of both. After all, on a cold and damp day, a wet horse blanket may be worse than no blanket at all.

Fit

A proper fitting horse blanket may protect an equine from the elements, while also providing comfort and preventing entanglements and other hazards. (CTRL-click here to read Horse Blankets 101: How do you measure your horse for a horse blanket?)

Well-constructed horse blankets may feature chest buckles, hook-and-loop front closures or both. Smart horse blanket shoppers also look for tailored shoulder gussets, adjustable belly straps, tail strings and detachable leg straps.

Price

Horse blanket prices may vary considerably. Heavy winter horse blankets for turnout may range from approximately $50 to more than $400. Often, a bit of creative shopping may turn up bargains on turnout blankets, particularly in online closeout sales.

Appearance

Horse lovers tend to enjoy grooming and trimming their horses. As a result, they may select certain colors and styles of horse blankets to maximize their horses’ physical appearances. For example, a chestnut horse may shine in a blue blanket, while a dark bay may look smashing in red plaid. However, appearance ranks well below other product features, when it comes to selecting horse blankets.
 

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