Winter is definitely here and for those who are still searching for that perfect winter blanket, here are a few tips to help.

To properly measure for a blanket, measure your horse from the center of the chest to the center of the tail. If your number is in between sizes, choose the larger size.

You’ve measured for your blanket, ordered it, and it has finally arrived…now what? Different manufacturers, cuts and designs can make a ‘same size’ blanket fit quite differently. Use these helpful hints to make sure the blanket fits your horse properly.

1. You should be able to slide your hand comfortably in the shoulder and withers area. Pressure in the area can cause discomfort or rub off hair. The blanket that fits well, should lie between 2-4 inches above the withers.

2. Check the chest buckles. When your horse put his head down to graze watch for pressure against the buckles.

3. Adjust the belly straps so they don’t hang too low. This could be dangerous if the horse were to get a hoof stuck while rolling or playing. The cross-straps should hang no more than 4 inches below the belly.

4. The tail flap should be easily lifted by your horse’s tail. A tail flap/cover which is too heavy or big will get in the way of manure resulting in a mess for you to clean.

**Don’t forget to pay attention to the Denier and grams of Polyfill in the blanket. The Denier will determine the durability (higher the better) and Polyfill determines whether the blanket is light, medium or heavy weight (higher is warmer).

**Just ask! Most local tack shops will allow you to try a blanket on to make sure it fits. Be sure your horse is clean or use a sheet under it to keep the blanket clean, should you need to return it for a different size.

RVHR is always looking for any unused blankets! Just drop us a note and we can give you mailing information.

If you know of something in the news you think others may be interested in or would like to suggest a specific type of horse care and maintenance tip for us to share with others, please contact us!

We’d love to hear from you!