Horse Blankets & Turnout Sheets

Horse blankets and turnout sheets are purpose-built to protect horses from rain, wind, cold, and temperature fluctuations during turnout and stabling. Whether your horse lives outside year-round or transitions between paddock and stable, the right blanket regulates body temperature, preserves coat condition, and supports overall comfort across every season. This collection covers the full range of horse blankets and turnout sheets suited for different climates, coat types, and activity levels.

Why Horse Blankets & Turnout Sheets Matter

Horses lose body heat rapidly in wet and windy conditions. Without adequate coverage, a horse's energy is redirected toward maintaining core temperature rather than supporting muscle recovery, weight maintenance, and general well-being. A properly fitted horse blanket or turnout sheet acts as a first line of defense against the elements - reducing the risk of chilling, protecting a clipped coat, and keeping horses dry and comfortable through unpredictable weather.

For clipped horses, blanketing is not optional - it is essential. For unclipped horses in mild climates, a lightweight turnout sheet may be all that is needed. Matching the blanket to the horse's environment, coat condition, and activity level is the foundation of effective weather protection.

Benefits of Horse Blankets & Turnout Sheets

• Weather Protection - Waterproof and windproof outer shells keep horses dry and shielded from harsh outdoor conditions during turnout.
• Temperature Regulation - Insulation levels from lightweight to heavyweight allow precise matching to ambient temperature and the horse's individual needs.
• Coat Preservation - Blankets protect natural coat growth and maintain a clipped coat's condition through cold and wet seasons.
• Breathability - Modern fabrics wick moisture away from the skin, preventing overheating and reducing the risk of skin irritation under the blanket.
• Secure Fit and Coverage - Adjustable straps, cross surcingles, leg straps, and tail cords keep blankets in place during movement and turnout without restricting natural motion.
• Durability - Reinforced stitching, ripstop outer shells, and heavy-denier fabrics withstand daily wear, rolling, and outdoor exposure across multiple seasons.

How to Choose the Right Horse Blanket or Turnout Sheet

Selecting the correct horse blanket depends on four key factors: climate, coat condition, the horse's activity level, and the intended use environment.

• Climate and Temperature Range - Match insulation weight to your average low temperatures. Lightweight options (0g-100g fill) suit mild or transitional weather. Medium weight (150g-250g fill) covers cold but not extreme conditions. Heavyweight (300g+ fill) is designed for harsh winters and prolonged cold exposure.
• Coat Condition - Clipped horses require more insulation than unclipped horses at the same temperature. A horse with a full winter coat may only need a waterproof sheet in wet conditions.
• Turnout vs. Stable Use - Turnout blankets and sheets are built with waterproof, ripstop outer shells for outdoor use. Stable blankets prioritize softness and breathability for indoor environments without requiring waterproofing.
• Fit and Sizing - Measure from the center of the chest to the point of the buttock for accurate sizing. A well-fitted blanket should allow full shoulder movement, sit level across the back, and not pull at the withers or slip back during turnout.
• Fastening Systems - Look for adjustable chest closures, cross surcingles, and leg straps that keep the blanket secure without causing rubs or pressure points.

Types of Horse Blankets & Turnout Sheets

Turnout Blankets

Turnout blankets combine a waterproof, windproof outer shell with insulating fill, making them the primary choice for horses kept outside in cold and wet conditions. Available in lightweight, medium, and heavyweight fill weights, turnout blankets are designed to stay in place during active turnout while keeping the horse dry and warm. Ripstop fabrics and reinforced shoulder gussets allow full freedom of movement without compromising weather protection.

Turnout Sheets

Turnout sheets provide waterproof and windproof protection without insulating fill. They are ideal for horses with a full winter coat that need rain and wind coverage without added warmth, or for use during mild transitional weather in spring and autumn. Lightweight and breathable, turnout sheets for horses are a versatile layering option that can be used alone or over a stable blanket for added weather resistance.

Stable Blankets

Stable blankets are designed for indoor use and prioritize softness, breathability, and insulation without the waterproofing required for outdoor conditions. They keep stabled horses warm overnight or during cold spells, protect clipped coats, and reduce the need for additional feed energy to maintain body temperature. Stable blankets are not intended for turnout use and should be reserved for dry, sheltered environments.

Fly Sheets

Fly sheets provide a lightweight, breathable mesh barrier that protects horses from flies, gnats, and UV exposure during warmer months. They do not provide insulation or waterproofing but are essential for horses sensitive to insects or prone to sun bleaching. Fly sheets are typically used during turnout in spring and summer and are designed to allow airflow while maintaining full body coverage.

Coolers

Coolers are used after exercise or bathing to wick moisture away from the coat and allow the horse to dry evenly without chilling. Made from moisture-wicking fleece or wool-blend fabrics, coolers regulate the cooling process and prevent muscle stiffness after work. They are not designed for turnout or prolonged outdoor use but are an essential part of post-exercise care in cold or transitional weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

What fill weight do I need for my horse blanket?

Fill weight depends on temperature and coat condition. As a general guide: 0g-100g for temperatures above 40°F with a full coat or above 50°F for a clipped horse; 150g-250g for temperatures between 20°F and 40°F; 300g+ for temperatures below 20°F or for horses that feel the cold more acutely. Always factor in wind chill and whether your horse is clipped.

Can I use a turnout blanket in the stable?

Turnout blankets can be used in the stable for short periods, but they are not optimized for indoor use. The waterproof outer shell reduces breathability compared to a dedicated stable blanket, which can cause sweating in a warm barn environment. For overnight stabling, a stable blanket is the better choice.

How do I measure my horse for a blanket?

Measure from the center of the chest, along the side of the body, to the point of the buttock. This measurement in inches corresponds to the blanket size. If your horse falls between sizes, size up to ensure adequate shoulder room and coverage.

How often should I replace my horse's blanket?

Inspect blankets at the start of each season for tears, worn waterproofing, broken hardware, and stretched straps. Waterproofing can be restored with a re-proofing spray. Blankets with structural damage, significant delamination, or compromised fastenings should be replaced to maintain effective protection.

Are fly sheets necessary if my horse is turned out during the day?

For horses sensitive to insects, prone to sweet itch, or at risk of UV-related coat bleaching, fly sheets provide meaningful protection during daytime turnout. They are particularly useful in regions with high fly pressure during summer months.

Shop Horse Blankets & Turnout Sheets

Browse our full selection of horse blankets and turnout sheets - from waterproof heavyweight turnout blankets for winter to breathable fly sheets for summer turnout. Each option is selected for durability, fit, and weather performance to keep your horse protected and comfortable year-round.