Our vet suggested the use of a horse cooling sheet for our horse, Tucker, to help wick sweat, keep it dry, and prevent fungal issues post riding.
We exercised him a couple of times each week and it wasn’t a good thing if he cooled off too rapidly - especially in winters.
Horse cooling sheets help regulate the horse’s body temperature and keep it comfortably dry.
In this guide, I have the 10 best horse cooling sheets, best horse cooling blanket, with honest reviews so you can make an informed decision while buying.
READ MORE: Horse Blanket Reviews
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10 Best Horse Cooling Sheets Reviews & Top Picks
From affordable options to luxurious splurges, I've rounded up the best of the best for you below. Let's jump in, starting with my favorite of all!
My horse Tucker loved this Tough-1 fleece liner sheet. He did not attempt to remove it and it fit him snugly as well. I loved the fact that his skin felt dry under the sheet.
Its excellent material regulated my horse’s temperature, wicked away sweat, and also prevented him from getting too chilly.
Features
- Available in several attractive colors and multiple sizes (small to extra large)
- Single chest buckle
- One belly surcingle
- Made with soft, wool-like fleece.
- Can be used all year-round. Great as a warmer and cooler.
Benefits & Drawbacks of Tough 1 Soft Fleece Blanket Liner/Sheet
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Benefits |
Drawbacks |
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Tail string and front buckle helps enhance the fit |
Only one belly surcingle |
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Attractive colors |
The fleece is a bit thin |
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Soft, polar fleece material is easy to wash |
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Versatile - use for layering or cooling horses in winters post sweaty riding. |
How it compares
Most users, myself included, loved the Tough-1 polar fleece cooler sheet. It is easy to clean, available in attractive colors, and is ideal to use when keeping a sweaty horse in the stables.
You can also use it all year round – spring, summer, and in winters for layering. On the downside, the sizing could run a little big for most horses. Price-wise, this is a great buy in the $50 to $100 range.
Expert Tips
During the winter, you need to take certain precautions when cooling out a hot, sweaty horse. Equine veterinarian, Brianne Henderson, has this excellent tip for equestrians:
“You want to make sure you have an adequate warm-up to get the muscles loose and the blood flowing, and then you need to equally bring them back down the other side afterwards”. “It’s that slow progression into and out of the work that I think is huge for horses in the cold temperatures.”
Check Price on State Line Tack
- Best Budget: TuffRider Cooler Sheet
I use this cooling sheet for my stabled horse after bathing. It stays on well and wicks moisture. It is also easy to clean. The anti-pilling material makes it very attractive!
Features
- Anti-pill technical polyester fleece sheet
- Easy to take on/off
- Plastic closures
- Available in 2 colors and several sizes.
Benefits & Drawbacks of TuffRider Cooler Sheet
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Benefits |
Drawbacks |
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Anti-pilling therefore easy to clean - but not exactly machine-washable |
The plastic closures break easily. |
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Lightweight |
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Moisture-wicking |
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Warm |
How it compares
A few users received different colors than the ones seen on the monitor. The buckles tend to break off easily so it isn’t recommended to machine wash the sheet on a normal cycle.
Shavings and other barn debris, like hay, stick to it so you need to brush the sheet. Best suited for stabled horses. Price-wise, this sheet is budget-friendly and affordable.
Expert Tips
If you are familiar with the world’s top showjumping riders then you’ve probably heard of Beezie Madden. Beezie and her team are experts in all things horses from care to training.
They put together this fantastic video on how to cool out an unclipped horse. I really recommend it!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SB-VR-r4G3M
- Best Neck Cover Cooler Sheet- WeatherBeeta Cooler + Neck Cover Combo
Most horses need a neck cover in addition to the cooling sheet. WeatherBeeta’s combo cooler and neck sheet are perfect for traveling and can even be used as a layer on very cold days.
Features
- Nylon lining
- 100% polyester fleece
- Two belly surcingles, chest buckles, and velcro neck loops to secure it in place
- Has a tail cord
- Three colors/patterns and several sizes available.
- Moisture-wicking fabric
Benefits & Drawbacks of WeatherBeeta Cooler + Neck Cover Combo
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Benefits |
Drawbacks |
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Stays on well |
Higher price. |
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Versatile sheet - use for travel, post bathing, or workout |
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Neck cover which most coolers do not have |
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Lightweight |
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High-quality brand |
How it compares
Compared to other cooling blankets for horses, this WeatherBeeta horse cooling sheet comes with a neck wrap. Price-wise, they are on the higher side.
However, the sheet is lightweight, available in attractive colors, and multiple sizes. They are also versatile for use for travel, post-bathing, and after a workout.
Expert Tips
Dr. Heather Hoyns an American horse vet offers some really good tips for dealing with sweaty or wet horses in winter. One of my favorites is one people used many years ago.
For a very wet horse, especially a cold one, she suggests putting hay or straw under the cooler or in between two coolers. This will help the horse dry fast and reduce the risk of it getting too chilled.
- Best Lightweight: Horseware Amigo Mio Fleece Cooler
My friend has been using this fleece cooling sheet for several years. She loves it and thinks it has done its job well. Being lightweight, it is suitable for use any time of the year.
Features
- Nickel-plated hardware
- Velcro closures
- Made with light-weight anti-pill fleece
- Detachable surcingles
- Corded tail strap
Benefits & Drawbacks of Horseware Amigo Mio Fleece Cooler
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Benefits |
Drawbacks |
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Lightweight |
Lack of color and size choices on top retail sites. |
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Eay to clean |
How they compare
This is a mid-range, affordable cooling sheet. It is well-made and lasts long. However, the lack of size and color choices can be limiting.
Expert Tips
To speed up drying your horse in cold weather use a microfiber towel and rub him down to absorb some of the moisture.
Check Price on State Line Tack
- Best Premium: Weaver Leather CoolAid Equine Cooling Blanket
As with everything else – when it comes to equine products, you often get what you pay for. Weaver Leather CoolAid cooling blanket might cost more, but it is totally worth it.
Features
- Chemical-free cooling blanket
- Made with award-winning CoolCore material
- Cooling and drying ability lasts throughout the lifetime of the sheet
- 100% machine washable
Benefits & Drawbacks of Weaver Leather CoolAid Equine Cooling Blanket
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Benefits |
Drawbacks |
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Suitable for post-bath use as well as after sweaty winter rides |
Pricey |
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Removable belly-straps and leg-straps for washing |
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The fabric stays 30% cooler than the horse’s body temperature |
How it compares
This is a premium cooling sheet and you won’t regret spending the money. It is lightweight, washable, and the cooling ability is dependable as well. Your horse will thank you for it!
Check Price on Equestrian Collections
- Best Exercise Cooler Blanket: Challenger Horse Wear Polar Fleece Cooler Exercise Blanket
This affordable post-exercise cooling blanket from Challenger is perfect to use after exercise to regulate your horse’s body temperature, prevent rapid cooling, and also for layering under a thicker blanket in cold weather.
Features
- Has a Zebra pattern with a turquoise trim
- Moisture wicking
Benefits & Drawbacks of Challenger Horse Wear Polar Fleece Cooler Exercise Blanket
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Benefits |
Drawbacks |
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Shoulder gussets are expandable and allow free movement. |
Some horses tore up the lightweight sheet. |
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Cools and protects against bugs and flies. |
A few sizing issues were reported. There isn’t much choice in sizes and colors |
How it compares
Challenger sheet is an affordable cooling or layering sheet for under $50. It is perfect for layering and also for summertime use to keep horses dry.
Expert Tips
Horses take longer to cool down than people do after exercise. To prevent your horse from starting to sweat again when you put a cooler on, make sure to walk for 10 minutes before dismounting.
- Best Affordable Wool Cooler: HORZE Millau Wool Blanket
HORZE is a great brand with quality products are decent prices. In the past, most coolers were made from wool. While more expensive, wool is great for extra cold days and temperature regulation.
Features
- Wool material
- Fleece lining at the withers
- Silver cord hip ornament
- Two belly straps
- Two chest buckles
Benefits & Drawbacks of HORZE Millau Wool Blanket
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Benefits |
Drawbacks |
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Great for very cold days |
More expensive than fleece |
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Excellent wicking ability |
Too warm for some days |
How it compares
Wool is the best material for pulling moisture away from the horse and works much better than fleece. It is one of my favorite materials. However, it keeps the horse warmer, so isn’t suitable for warmer days.
Expert Tips
Pro Equine Grooms, a group of experts in horse care point out that you should never put a stable or turnout blanket on top of a cooler that has been put on a wet horse. This traps the moisture.
It is essentially the equivalent of you putting a jacket on over damp base layers and staying outside. Not fun or comfortable! And it will only make you colder.
Check Price on Equestrian Collections
- Best Heavy Cooler: Rambo Deluxe Fleece Cooler
I love the Rambo line. It is a premium collection from Horsewear, one of the best blanket brands around. If you want a quality, thick fleece cooler, this is one of the best you can get.
Features
- Double bonded, anti-piling fleece
- Double front closures
- Fillet string
- Cross surcingles
Benefits & Drawbacks of Rambo Deluxe Fleece Cooler
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Benefits |
Drawbacks |
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Comes in great colors |
Expensive |
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Breathable |
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High quality |
How it compares
When it comes to fleece coolers this is one of the best ones you can get. It holds its shape well and is more durable than cheaper fleece options. It isn’t the most budget-friendly but will give you many years of use.
Expert Tips
Make sure your horse is completely dry before you put his stable or turnout blankets back. Putting these on a damp horse can actually make him colder.
Check Price on State Line Tack
- Best Technical Fabric Cooler: Bucas Power Cooler
Bucas is an Irish brand and I love to treat myself to their products when I have extra money. I and my friends all have this cooler.
I really like technical fabric coolers. They do a better job of drawing moisture and evaporating it than fleece. While a fleece cooler can get damp underneath, this cooler rarely does.
Features
- Satin outer finish
- Detachable elastic surcingles
- Fillet String
- Anti-bacterial
Benefits & Drawbacks of Bucas Power Cooler
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Benefits |
Drawbacks |
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Great moisture wicking ability |
Not budget friendly |
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Lightweight |
Comes in only two colors |
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Dries quickly |
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High quality |
How it compares
Unlike many coolers, this is made from a technical fabric instead of fleece. It is thinner but does a wonderful job of getting your horse dry.
You can use it at any time of the year, so even though it is expensive, you get good value for money.
Expert Tips
I found this video really interesting. It is a vet talking about how to cool your horse out safely and correctly during the winter. Take a look, it is information every equestrian should know.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y5upE7U98FI
Check Price on State Line Tack
- Best Cozy Cooler: WeatherBeeta Sherpa Fleece Cooler
I just love a cozy looking cooler. My horse might not care either way, but at least I feel like I’m making my horse as comfortable as possible.
Features
- Super soft
- Cozi-Collar
- Adjustable front closure buckle
- Tail cord
- Thermal Sherpa fleece lining
Benefits & Drawbacks of WeatherBeeta Sherpa Fleece Cooler
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Benefits |
Drawbacks |
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Extra thick fleece neck |
Only one color option |
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Extra warm |
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Attractive |
How it compares
Made with an extra-soft fleece, this is one of the coziest coolers I’ve included in my guide. The price isn’t cheap but it is still cheaper than $100. The fleece is higher quality than cheaper options.
Expert Tips
Since this is a WeatherBeeta cooler, I thought I’d share a tip from Meg Kepferle, head groom for international event rider Sinead Halpin who is a brand ambassador.
When a horse comes in from work in winter Meg will first add an Irish knit sweat sheet or mesh cooler followed by a fleece cooler. She feels this helps moisture escape from the horse more quickly and easily.
Check Price on State Line Tack
What to Consider Before Buying Cooler Sheets for Horses?
Here are some factors to consider before using a horse cooling sheet or blanket:
- Does Your Horse Need a Cooling Blanket?
Not all horses need a cooling blanket. A cooling blanket is needed if you exercise your horse in winters and it sweats heavily.
To prevent rapid cooling (which can cause chills and shivers), a cooling blanket can come in handy.
Horse cooler sheets also wick away moisture rapidly to the surface from where the moisture gets evaporated. This keeps your horses dry and cool at the same time.
You can also use a horse cooling sheet if you bathe your horse and want it to dry off quickly.
(While you can always towel dry your horse, a horse cooling sheet does the job more effectively and is definitely worth it if you own several horses).
Learn more on this horse blanketing guide.
- Types of Horse Cooling Blankets
Horse coolers come in different types:
- A) Neck and Cooling Sheet Combination Blanket
This type of blanket comes with a neck protector and that can be handy when you want more coverage.
- B) Fly Sheet
Some coolers also repel bugs, gnats, chiggers, flies, and mosquitoes thanks to their special material, mesh lining, and other features. Look for such fly sheets for horses if you live in an area that has these bugs.
- C) Evaporative Blankets
This type of horse cooler needs you to work hard. You have to keep soaking the blanket and keeping it saturated with water.
The moisture evaporates and cools the horse down in very hot temperatures. Select this kind if you live in a very hot region.
- D) Gel/chemical Treated Coolers
Some horse cooling blankets are treated with special chemicals or gels which provide the cooling effect.
However, the problem with these is that the chemical tends to wear off and the cooling effect tends to reduce if that happens.
- Ease of Use/Features
The most important consideration to make while selecting a horse cooling blanket is the ease of using it and the features it has.
- Tail flap - make sure the cooler has a tail flap to protect your horse’s tail.
- Straps and buckles - The blanket should come with adequate buckles, Velcro straps, or surcingle to secure it around the belly and shoulders. If needed, it should come with nylon or elastic shoulder and leg straps to prevent shifting.
- Gussets - look for a sheet with shoulder gussets that allow your horse to move freely.
- Type of closures - there are different kinds of closures in horse cooling blankets - front, quick-clip closure, etc. Look for the type that you are comfortable using.
- Fit
To ensure proper fit and sizing, measure your horse properly. Use the following steps when measuring:
- Stand your horse straight.
- Seek help from a buddy when measuring. Use fabric tape.
- Start from the center of the horse’s chest and measure across its widest part of the barrel to the widest part of the rump before its tail. If you get an in-between size, select the higher size in the blanket.
For a perfect fit:
- The top of the front closure should line perfectly the horse’s shoulders and neckline should lay smoothly without pulling.
- The cooling sheet should not be too tight- you should be able to slip a hand between the sheet and the withers.
- Lengthwise, the sheet should cover the barrel of the horse entirely.
- Materials
Horse cooling sheets come in a variety of materials and this naturally decides its features.
For example, sheets made of polar fleece will be warmer while those made with nylon or polyester will be cooler, water-resistant, and also more durable.
These days, you also get coolers made of cotton, mesh, acrylic, microfiber, and high-tech materials like DuraTech. They all have different properties like bug-repellent, UV protection, etc. and their cost also varies.
FAQs
What does a cooling sheet do for horses?
Cooling sheets regulate a horse’s body temperature. They also wick away moisture from the horse’s skin and bring it to the surface for faster evaporation. This cools the horse down without chilling it. It is ideal to use on horses after a sweaty workout in cold weather or in summers to prevent sweating.
Can you leave a cooler on a horse overnight?
On hot days, you can leave a cooler on the horse overnight. Also, if you ride later in the day, then you can use a cooling sheet on the horse overnight to prevent sweating and avoid chilling the horse rapidly.
How long should you leave a cooler on the horse?
You can leave the cooler on the horse for a few hours. If you ride later in the evening, then you can also leave it on overnight.
Final Recommendations
Horse cooling sheets or horse cooling blankets are must-have horse accessories if you ride in winters.
They help regulate your horse’s body temperature and prevent it from cooling too rapidly.
In summers, they help wick away sweat and moisture and keep your horse cool and dry.
I recommend the Tough-1 fleece cooling sheet which is versatile, durable, and useful all year round. It cools horses slowly, and can also be used for layering in harsh winters if you’re stuck for other blanket options.
There are multiple sizes and colors available in it as well. Do check out our other recommendations too.
Conclusion
Thanks for checking out my guide to horse coolers. I hope you found the perfect one for your horse and budget.
If you have any questions, I’m happy to tackle them in a future article, so don’t hesitate to ask!
What is your favorite horse cooling sheet? Let us know in the comments below!
References
- 1. Why Do Some Horses Wear Blankets? Even in the Summer? Horse Racing Sense. Published April 30, 2021. Accessed November 29, 2021. https://horseracingsense.com/why-horses-wear-blankets/
- 2. Thermoregulation and Heat Stroke in Horses - Pro Equine Grooms. Pro Equine Grooms. Published October 14, 2021. Accessed November 29, 2021. https://www.proequinegrooms.com/tips/health-and-well-being/thermoregulation-heat-stroke
- 3. Equine Thermoregulation – Horses. Extension.org. Published July 31, 2019. Accessed November 29, 2021. https://horses.extension.org/equine-thermoregulation/
- 4. Hoyns H. Dry Your Damp Horse in Winter . Expert how-to for English Riders. Available from: https://practicalhorsemanmag.com/health-archive/dry-your-damp-horse-in-winter-11779
- 5. Cool Out Your Horse in Winter . Pro Equine Grooms. 2021 . Available from: https://proequinegrooms.com/tips/grooming/cooling-out-in-colder-weather
- 6. Cool Out Your Hot Horse Safely This Winter . Weatherbeeta.com. 2018 . Available from: https://www.weatherbeeta.com/blog/post/cool-out-your-hot%20horse-safely-this-winter