Horse Blanket Guide: Temperature, Grams, and When to Use Each
When should you blanket your horse? What weight does it need based on the temperature? This is one of the most common questions among horse 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 filling per square meter of fabric. The higher the weight, the more warmth the blanket provides:
| Weight | Outside Temperature | Use |
|---|---|---|
| 0g (no fill) | Above 15°C | Only for repellents or flies |
| 100g | 10-15°C | Spring/autumn, horse with natural coat |
| 200g | 5-10°C | Mild autumn/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 with a clipped coat. A horse with a natural coat needs less weight.
Types of Blankets: Stable vs. Turnout
Stable Blanket
Used when the horse is in the stall. Generally not waterproof (no rain in the stall). Can be light or heavy depending on the filling.
- Material: fleece, soft inner nylon
- No need to be waterproof
- Soft inner lining to prevent rubbing the coat
- Fasteners: cross surcingles under the belly
Turnout Blanket (Outdoor)
For when the horse is in the paddock or field. Must be waterproof and resistant to bumps 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 fastening
- Resistance: minimum 600D for regular use
How to Tell if Your Horse is Cold?
Signs that your horse is cold and needs a blanket:
- Erect hair (goosebumps)
- Muscle tremors
- Standing hunched or with head down
- Ears pinned back
- Neck and shoulder muscles tense to the touch
Signs that the Blanket is Too Warm
- Sweating under the blanket (even without exercise)
- Wet coat on neck and shoulders
- Restless horse, biting 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 recommended weight for the 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 complete collection of horse blankets, available in all weights from 100g to 400g. We have stable, turnout, and waterproof options from the best brands.
