Stable blankets and sheets
There are two main types of horse blankets: stable blankets and sheets. Stable blankets, like the popular Weatherbeeta ComFiTec, are designed for outdoor use and feature waterproof fabric with a breathable mesh lining. They’re very durable and will keep your horse warm in extreme temperatures (and even help prevent frostbite!).
They can be used on horses who spend time outside all year long but also work well in colder climates where it gets below freezing overnight. A good quality stable blanket is made from either cotton or polyester/cotton fabrics that have been waterproofed by adding rubberized material to the inner layer of fabric. This prevents moisture from getting through while keeping out windy elements like snow or rain. Some brands like Weatherbeeta also offer an option to purchase their blankets with no-grow liners which helps them last longer than other types of fabrics since they don’t get stretched out over time.”
Turnout (turn-out) sheets and blankets
Turnout rugs and blankets are the most common type of horse blanket. Turnouts help your horse stay dry, warm and clean, which is great for the winter months when they need to be out in the cold.
Turnouts can also help keep their coat shiny and healthy through winter by protecting them from rain or snow that could damage their coats.
They’re a great choice for horses with thin hair as well because it keeps them warm and dry throughout the day, helping them grow a thick winter coat together!
Cooler rugs
Cooler rugs are designed to be kept on your horse after a ride, rather than before. They’re also used as part of a layering system with other blankets and sheets, similar to the way that you might layer clothes when you’re going out in winter. The cooler will wick moisture away and help your horse to dry off more quickly after being worked hard or competing in the field.
Rain sheets
A rain sheet is a blanket that provides protection from the elements, and it’s especially useful if your horse is not accustomed to wearing a blanket or if you need to protect him from wind, rain and snow. The best rain sheets are made of breathable fabric that will keep your horse dry even on long rides in wet weather.
Make sure you purchase a size that fits your horse well; oversized blankets can be dangerous as they could slip off during riding or cause injury by rubbing into sensitive areas such as the withers and shoulders. If possible, try on more than one type of blanket so you can get an idea of how they fit before making a decision!
Hoods and neck covers
Hoods and neck covers are another option for keeping your horse warm. Since they cover the neck, they can help protect against wind, keep the horse’s neck clean and dry, and prevent chafing in that area.
A good hood shouldn’t be too tight or restrictive on your horse’s head, but it should fit snugly enough to stay in place throughout the day. If you plan to use it with turnouts or coolers—or if you have a “problem child” who tends to pull off blankets—you’ll want one with a very secure attachment system. Otherwise, consider using a blanket or cooler alone for added warmth instead of relying solely on your turnout sheet/blanket combo.
Hoods are made from different materials than blankets; some are waterproof while others aren’t (which is why you always want waterproof sheeting under your turnout sheet). Most hoods don’t come in waterproof versions because of this issue: They’re designed specifically for use under turnout sheets where any moisture trapped between two layers will eventually evaporate through them both rather than staying trapped inside one layer only (like how sweat builds up inside socks when worn over long periods).
Find out which horse blanket is right for your horse.
The first thing to consider when choosing a horse blanket is the climate where you live. If it’s humid, hot and sunny all year round, you’ll need a different kind of blanket than someone who lives in an area with snow and ice in winter.
In addition to climate, there are several other factors that must be taken into consideration when choosing a horse blanket:
- Does the horse have any allergies?
- How much does he sweat?
- Is he an active horse or one who likes napping in his stall?
If your horse has sensitive skin or allergies, it’s best to choose something breathable like cotton as opposed to wool or synthetic materials that may irritate him further by trapping heat inside.