Why Horse Blankets Are So Important
In most regions of Switzerland, winters are very cold and snowy.
When it gets cold and unpleasant outside, it’s especially important to keep our horses warm and dry. A good horse blanket is essential for this.
– Also suitable for cold nights!
They protect the horse from the cold, wet, and wind and ensure that it stays warm and dry during the cold season. But which horse blanket is the right one for winter? What material should I look for? Horse blankets come in many different sizes, shapes, and designs. You can choose from a variety of materials, ranging from wool to fleece. And there are even blankets specifically designed for horses with allergies or sensitive skin. So if you’re looking for the perfect horse blanket for winter, we have a few tips for you here. Choose a blanket made of high-quality material: Wool is an excellent material for horse blankets because it’s very soft and warm. It’s breathable and regulates body heat to maintain an optimal climate under the blanket. Other natural materials, such as cotton, are also well-suited. Pay attention to the size of the blanket: Most horse blankets are available in various sizes. Make sure the blanket fits well and isn’t too tight. If the blanket is too tight or too large, your horse will feel uncomfortable, and the blanket could cause chafing. Choosing a waterproof blanket: If you live in an area where it often rains or snows, it’s best to choose a waterproof blanket. These blankets keep your horse dry and warm, even when it’s stormy or snowing outside. Waterproof outdoor blankets are more expensive than stable blankets because they feature a special breathable, high-performance membrane similar to that found in a ski jacket. If the blanket will only be used in a weather-protected stable, a stable blanket that isn’t waterproof is sufficient. This type is highly breathable and more affordable. For occasional winter pasture time, a thin rain blanket can also be placed over the stable blanket. For horses with outdoor access or regular winter pasture time, we strongly recommend a high-quality waterproof outdoor blanket!
The Best Horse Blankets for Winter
We at Horseandmore.ch have taken a closer look at the various models and are presenting the best horse blankets for winter here.
1. The AMIGO Hero by Horseware
The AMIGO Hero by Horseware offers the best value for money. It’s made from a waterproof and breathable material that protects the horse from wet conditions and wind. The blanket is available with all standard fillings and will keep your horse perfectly comfortable all winter long.
2. The Rambo by Horseware
The Rambo blanket is Horseware’s high-end model and is available in all variations. It is unmatched in terms of tear resistance, water column rating, and breathability. That’s why this line is also very well suited for horses that tend to be rough on their blankets.
All Rambo models feature an antibacterial, antistatic, and shine-enhancing polyester lining for healthy skin and a glossy coat. They’re also equipped with the latest Aquatrans technology, which makes the blankets waterproof and breathable. We offer a 3-year warranty on these features.
3. The Amigo Bravo Series from Horseware
The Amigo Bravo Series is Horseware’s mid-range model. In terms of quality, it is on par with the Rambo line but is more attractively priced. This line stands out with an unbeatable modular system. The blankets are compatible with various liners and neck pieces. Particularly noteworthy is the Airmax Cooler with its optimal sweat-wicking function, which means even horses that are still steaming can be covered in the evening without hesitation—they’ll stay warm and dry.
What are the different types of horse blankets?
For winter, there are various types of horse blankets, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Horse blankets come in a wide variety of styles, sizes, and materials. Choosing the right blanket therefore depends primarily on your horse’s needs.
You should consider the following factors when making your selection:
- Your horse’s age and breed
- Housing conditions (e.g., paddock, pasture, or stall)
- Your
horse’s coat texture - Your horse’s body type (e.g., stocky or slender build)
- Whether your horse has a medical condition (e.g., Cushing’s or eczema)
There are various types of horse blankets, each suited for different purposes.
The following types of blankets are particularly popular in winter:
Stable or pasture blankets:
These blankets are placed over the horse to protect it from wind and weather. Pasture blankets—also known as outdoor blankets—are generally waterproof and breathable.
Transport blankets:
Transport blankets are designed to protect the horse from cold and moisture during transport and should be highly breathable. They are usually somewhat lighter than stable or pasture blankets and therefore weigh less.
Cooling blankets:
Cooling blankets are placed over the horse after riding to help it dry off and stay warm. They are usually made of lightweight material and have a highly effective cooling function by wicking excess moisture away from the coat.
If you’re unsure which blanket is best suited for your horse, feel free to contact horseandmore.ch at any time. The team at Horseandmore.ch has years of experience with horses and, of course, horse blankets.
What else should you keep in mind during the winter?
A horse’s skin is particularly stressed in winter and therefore requires more intensive care. After work, horses should be covered with a cooling blanket until they are dry. Then gently brush the horse’s coat and thoroughly remove any traces of sweat to prevent chafing. This is especially important in the saddle area and between the front legs. Very dry areas of skin must be thoroughly moisturized to prevent dehydration. Afterward, the horse can be covered with a stable blanket.
Conclusion
Which blanket is the right one? Before you buy a blanket, you should consider what purpose it is intended to serve. Is it meant to protect the horse during transport? Or is it intended for use in the stall or in the pasture? Depending on the intended use, certain types of blankets are more or less suitable. In addition, blanket cuts vary by manufacturer. Some manufacturers tend to make their blankets wider, while others make them narrower. In summary, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of which horse blanket is the best. Which blanket is most suitable depends on the horse’s individual needs and the intended use.
The team at Horseandmore.ch is here to answer any questions you may have about horse blankets.
