Horse Blanket Guide: Temperature, Grams, and When to Use Each
When should you blanket your horse? What weight (fill) is needed according to the temperature? This is one of the most frequent questions among owners. The answer is not as simple as it seems: it depends on the horse, its coat, whether it is clipped, and the type of stable.
The Blanket Weight System
The weight (expressed in grams) indicates the weight of the fill per square meter of fabric. The higher the weight, the more warmth the blanket provides:
| Weight | Outside Temperature | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| 0g (no fill) | Above 15°C | Fly sheet or repellant only |
| 100g | 10-15°C | Spring/autumn, horse with coat |
| 200g | 5-10°C | Autumn/mild winter |
| 300g | 0-5°C | Standard winter |
| 400g | -5-0°C | Very cold winters |
| 500g+ | Below -5°C | Extreme mountainous areas |
Important: These temperatures are guidelines for a horse that has been clipped. A horse with a natural coat requires less weight.
Types of Blankets: Stable vs. Turnout
Stable Blanket
Used when the horse is in the stall. Generally not waterproof (there is no rain in the stall). Can be light or heavy depending on the fill.
- Material: fleece, soft interior nylon
- No need to be waterproof
- Soft inner lining to prevent rubbing the coat
- Fastenings: cross-surcingles under the belly
Turnout Blanket
For when the horse is in the paddock or pasture. It must be waterproof and resistant to impact and chafing.
- Outer material: high-resistance nylon (600-1200 denier)
- Waterproofing: essential (at least DWR, ideally PU or TPU)
- Additional fastenings: leg straps and double chest closure
- Resistance: minimum 600D for regular use
How to Tell if Your Horse is Cold
Signs that your horse is cold and needs a blanket:
- Piloerection (goosebumps)
- Muscle shivering
- Standing hunched or with head down
- Ears pinned to the body
- Neck and shoulder muscles tense to the touch
Signs That the Blanket is Too Warm
- Sweating under the blanket (even without exercise)
- Damp coat on the neck and shoulders
- Restless horse, biting at the blanket
- Elevated body temperature (above 38.5°C)
Practical Rules for Choosing the Weight
- Horse with natural coat (unclipped): Subtract 100-150g from the weight recommended by temperature
- Fully clipped horse: Use the standard weight or 50g more
- Old or thin horse: Go up one weight level
- Very active / good condition horse: Go down one weight level
- Open/windy stable: Go up one weight level
Explore our full collection of horse blankets, available in all weights from 100g to 400g. We have stable, turnout, and waterproof options from the best brands.
