What are the best stable blankets for horses? The top rated horse blankets.
Your head might already be hurting from searching through all the choices. I don’t blame you!
I’ve, hopefully, come to the rescue with this handy guide to my all-time favorites.
Let's start with a quick look at our top picks, then keep reading for all the glorious details.
READ MORE: Professional Choice Horse Blankets
Top Horse Stable Blankets at a Glance
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Don't have time? Here is a quick comparison of our favorites!
7 Best Horse Stable Blankets (Reviews)
After over 20 years of using horse blankets, I’ve seen it all. While using a blanket is pretty straightforward, they are many little things you pick up over the years.
After getting so many questions from new horse owners, I decided that an easy-to-follow guide would be really helpful.
So, let’s take a look at my top picks.
#1 Weatherbeeta Comfitec Medium Stall Blanket (WINNER)
Weatherbeeta is no slouch when it comes to producing horse blankets. Of course, you’d expect that with their four decades of experience.
I have always been a fan of Weatherbeeta. Their blankets are good quality and last well.
The Comfitec medium is a great addition to your horse’s wardrobe. The medium weight means you can use it in a variety of temperatures. It is a good weight for horses that tend to get too hot in a heavyweight blanket.
It is also light enough to add a lightweight or even heavyweight liner too when it gets very cold for additional warmth.
The Comfitec has a polyester lining. This is the best type of lining. You probably like me, are attracted to blanket linings that are cotton, flannel, or fleecy. I don’t blame you, they look so cozy!
However, they really are a pain in you know what! They are dirt and hair magnets and it is next to impossible to get it clean after that. I also find that they stick to horses that are clipped.
The polyester lining is smooth and comes out of the wash clean. It won’t stick to the coat and it also helps keep the coat shiny and your horse clean.
So, like me, fight the urge to go for that cozy looking lining, it’s actually not the best option.
Physical Attributes
- 210 denier outer
- 210T Polyester lining
- Fillet string
- Belly surcingle straps
- 110g polyfill
Quantitative Measurements
- Comes in navy/silver, purple/blue, and blue navy
Benefits & Drawbacks of Weatherbeeta Comfitec Medium
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Benefits |
Drawbacks |
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Lightweight so good for layering |
Only one chest buckle |
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Reasonably priced |
Hard to find size variety |
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Machine washable |
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Soft and comfortable |
How it Compare to Others and Why
This Weatherbeeta is a lightweight blanket. When comparing it to some others it has more versatility. Because it is light you can use it in the fall when it starts to get chilly or for freezing cold winter days as a blanket layer.
Expert Tips
Weatherbeeta has been making horse blankets for 40-years. It is safe to say they are experts in this type of equestrian gear.
To clean your blanket, Weatherbeeta recommends that you do the following: remove excess dirt and hair, place in the washing machine in a mesh bag, and wash it one a gentle cycle with mild detergent.
Don't forget to read our guide on what is a horse quarter sheet!
#2 B Vertigo Theo Stable Blanket
This is one of my overall favorite horse stable blankets. I have one myself and love how they fit and the cozy fleece neck just makes you feel like you are keeping your horse warm.
The waffle pattern adds to the blanket’s elegance.
The B Vertigo is a lightweight stable blanket, which means it has less than 200g of insulating filling. After many years of using blankets on my own horses, I’ve found that having one in of this weight is essential.
They are perfect for when there is a chill but it is still too warm for a heavy stable blanket. You can also use them as a bottom layer under a heavier blanket when it gets really cold.
Physical Attributes
- Waffle pattern
- Fleece neck
- 150g filling
- 2 front buckle closures
- B Vertigo logo embroidery
- Cross surcingles
Quantitative Measurements
- Comes in dark navy with cream and white trim
- Sizes range from 66-inch to 84-inch
Benefits & Drawbacks of B Vertigo Theo Stable Blanket
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Benefits |
Drawbacks |
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Elegant look |
Lack of color choice |
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Fleece neck |
A little expensive |
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Perfect for layers |
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Waffle pattern evenly distributes insulation |
How it Compare to Others and Why
Price wise this stable blanket is a little expensive but it is still cheaper than some others. It is one of the most elegant looking blankets you’ll find.
Expert Tips
SmartPak expert tells you some great tips on blanket layering here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ZQNEtl8pVE
#3 Country Pride Squall 1200D Midweight Bellyband Stable Blanket
I’ve yet to try this blanket personally, but it is one that I have at the top of my list to use. It has some amazing features and the price is pretty good.
Physical Attributes
- Belly wrap
- 1200 Denier
- Nylon lining
- Channel quilted
- Elastic leg straps
- 550g polyfill
Quantitative Measurements
- Comes in blue
Benefits & Drawbacks of Country Pride Squall 1200D Midweight Bellyband Stable Blanket
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Benefits |
Drawbacks |
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Very warm |
Goes on over the head, which some horses might not like |
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Belly flap helps keep the horse cleaner and warmer |
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Strong outer fabric |
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Tail flap |
How it Compare to Others and Why
This blanket is a heavy weight stable rug. It is very warm, one of the warmest available. It is only suitable for very cold weather.
Expert Tips
The experts from TheHorse recommend that once temperatures drop below 30F, then it is time to use a heavyweight blanket, especially for clipped horses.
#4 TuffRider Kozy Komfort Stable Horse Blanket
You might have come across TuffRider before. It is one of my favorite brands that provides budget-friendly equestrian gear for horse riders and owners.
I always recommend them to those just starting out as the products are good quality but not expensive.
One equestrian has this to say about it: “I bought this stable blanket two months ago and it has done great even with daily use! It keeps my young horse toasty and works perfectly as an extra layer under her turnout sheet.”
Physical Attributes
- 220g fill
- Double front buckles
- low-cross belly straps
- Standard neck
- Adjustable blanket hind leg straps
- 400 denier
Quantitative Measurements
- Comes in black with purple trim and navy with light green trim
- Blanket sizes from 72-inch to 87-inch
Benefits & Drawbacks of TuffRider Kozy Komfort Stable Horse Blanket
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Benefits |
Drawbacks |
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Economical price |
No shoulder gussets |
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Medium weight that you can layer |
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Soft and cozy |
How it Compare to Others and Why
This is a medium weight blanket, which is suitable for a variety of temperatures. It is also a great layer for over a lightweight.
Expert Tips
PennState Extension says that you need to blanket a horse when it is very young or old and if it has not acclimatized to a cold climate.
Check Price on State Line Tack
#5 Horseware Rambo Optimo Stable 400g
I just love Horseware Ireland blankets, they really put a lot of effort into evolving their lines for the comfort of the horse.
Their premium line is the Rambo. If you don’t have to worry about your budget then this is the best horse stable blanket.
I have the Rambo Optimo stable sheet, the light version of this. In all my years of blanketing horses, the Optimo offers the most freedom of movement.
It also has a foam insert over the withers, one area where I’ve always noticed that too much pressure occurs. My friend has this model and it is a fantastic blanket, just like the sheet that I have but warmer.
Physical Attributes
- 400g Thermobonded fibrefill
- 1000D ripstop polyester outer
- Antibacterial polyester lining
- Surefit neck design
- Wipe clean tail cord
- Three straight surcingles
Quantitative Measurements
- Blanket sizes from 60-inch to 87-inch
- Comes in navy or black
Benefits & Drawbacks of Horseware Rambo Optimo Stable
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Benefits |
Drawbacks |
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Rambo® Split technology provides extreme freedom of movement |
Expensive |
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Padded wither |
|
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Neck hood attachments available separately |
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Breathable and adjustable chest |
How it Compare to Others and Why
If you want to most modern design for your horse’s comfort and movement then the Optimo is it! However, it is one of the most expensive blankets you’ll find.
Expert Tips
It is essential that stable blankets for horses fit well to avoid rubs and pressure points. The British Horse Society has this great video that shows you how to fit a blanket.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SInsAifLAUs
#6 AMIGO Heavy Insulator Stable Blanket
The Amigo is a line of horse blankets from Horsewear but is cheaper than the premium Rambo. I have an Amigo liner and I really like it. It fits my horse well and has lasted several winters.
Physical Attributes
- 210D ripstop polyester outer
- Polyester lining
- Liner loops
- Fillet string
- Cross surcingles
Quantitative Measurements
- Comes in navy
Benefits & Drawbacks of AMIGO Heavy Insulator Stable Blanket
|
Benefits |
Drawbacks |
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You can attach a liner under this blanket |
No shoulder gussets |
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Durable and breathable |
How it Compare to Others and Why
The Amigo is a high-quality stable blanket in a mid-price range. Unlike some others, it has an option to attach a blanket liner, which makes it great for layering during the cold winter weather.
Expert Tips
Besides fit, you also need to know how to measure your horse for a blanket. Check out this helpful tutorial from these equestrian gear experts.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_AqcBjYvpUY
#7 Derby Originals 1200D Breathable Stable Blanket
For the price, these stable blankets for horses are packed with cool features. You can adjust the neck and the belly flap provides extra warmth.
And if you’re like me and have a grey horse anything that helps keep them cleaner is a plus. I know your grey horse struggle!
Physical Attributes
- Belly flap
- 1200 denier
- Fleece wither protection
- 300g polyfill
Quantitative Measurements
- Comes in navy
- Available in size 72-inch to 84-inch
Benefits & Drawbacks of Derby Originals 1200D Breathable Stable Blanket
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Benefits |
Drawbacks |
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Warm winter blanket |
Limited color choice |
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Adjustable neck |
|
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Belly flap |
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Good price |
How it Compare to Others and Why
This is one of the few stable blankets that have both a belly flap and straps to adjust the shoulder. However, of the blankets that do have these features, it is one of the cheapest.
Expert Tips
If you were wondering how to put on a winter blanket, check out this video from a long time equestrian.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viHHZ5RYbP4
Why Do Horses Need Stable Blankets?
Horses need stable blankets for a few different reasons. The first one is if your horse is clipped. Clipping a horse removes their natural winter fluff and is important for horses doing exercise during the winter.
But because you remove their winter coat, they have no way to stay warm in cold or even cooler weather. A stable blanket will keep them warm but it is still more breathable than a turnout blanket.
If you want to see some of the best turnout blankets for horses, check our guide!
You also need to put stable blankets on older horses. These horses often have trouble keeping weight on in the winter. A blanket will help them comfortable, so they don’t use as many calories trying to stay warm.
Also, just like people these horses can suffer from arthritis and general aches. The blanket warmth helps soothe these aches.
A sick horse might also need a stable blanket. When their body is run down from sickness they will feel the cold more.
Keep in mind all horses are individuals so the type of blanket you need will vary. I’ve come across in my many years of experience that some horses just hate the cold, even with their full winter coat.
I found putting a stable blanket on these horses keeps them much happier. I have a horse that just doesn’t do well in the cold. She doesn’t get clipped and grows a good winter coat.
But if you leave her with nothing on in the winter it is very hard to keep weight on her. If I put a stable blanket on her, she keeps her weight perfectly without the need to give her lots of grain.
Also Check: Stable Blankets Vs Stable Sheet: What's The Difference?
Things to Consider Before Buying Stable Blankets for Horses?
Before buying stable blankets for horses, you need to consider a few simple things. Let’s take a look. I promise it’s easy to figure out.
Horse Blanket Weight
You need to decide what weight stable blanket to get. Blankets are rated in grams, so the higher the grams, the warmer it is. In my experience, the best thing to do is to get a light or medium weight stable blanket.
And then get one or two blanket liners of different weights.
Blanket liners tend to cost less than a full stable blanket, so it works out more economical. It also allows you to easily change how much warmth you put on your horse depending on the temperature.
Alternatively, you can get one stable blanket in light, medium, and heavy.
Horse Blanket Fit
You need a horse blanket that fits correctly so your horse is comfortable and doesn’t get blanket rubs. I always recommend a blanket that has a shoulder gusset if you can get one within your budget.
After using all types of horse blankets, I notice that sometimes those with no gussets tend to restrict the horse’s movement. I also have found that they are more likely to rub.
Also Check: The Best Rain Sheets For Horses
FAQs
Still have questions? That’s OK! It’s taken me years to really master blanketing but it doesn’t take too long to get a good understanding of it.
To help you out, I’ve answered some questions, I’ve been asked a lot here. Let’s find out.
Can you turn a horse out in a stable blanket?
No, you cannot turn a horse into a stable blanket. They are not waterproof and your horse will get wet, potentially making them colder or even sick.
They are also not made with the same fabric that can withstand rolling and being outside and will quickly get destroyed.
Can you use a cooler as a stable blanket?
No, you can’t really use a cooler as a stable blanket. It isn’t a hard and fast rule, however. Fleece coolers quickly get wrecked as shavings and hay stick to them.
And it’s impossible to get off! Trust me on that! But, when it’s very cold, I do find they make a good layer under a heavy stable blanket for some extra warmth.
Conclusion
Every horse owner that keeps their horse in a stable, needs to have a stable blanket. You might not use it all the time, especially if you live in a warm climate but sudden temperature changes can be detrimental to your horse.
At those times you will want a blanket. Luckily, there’s plenty of blanket choice and some great budget options.
Final Recommendation
You will need to make the final choice on what blanket you get, as you know your horse best.
However, my winner, the Weatherbeeta Comfitec is one I tell fellow equestrians to consider the most. It is medium weight, so it is suitable for lots of temperatures and also gives you room to add a light blanket liner for more warmth.
Of course, my favorite blanket is Rambo for its innovative fit but it’s not my winner due to the price.
References
- 1. How to Care for your Horse Blanket . www.weatherbeeta.com. . Available from: https://www.weatherbeeta.com/how-to-care-for-your-horse-blanket
- 2. Horse Blanketing FAQs . The Horse. 2021 . Available from: https://thehorse.com/18897/horse-blanketing-faqs/
- 3. When to Blanket a Horse . Penn State Extension. . Available from: https://extension.psu.edu/when-to-blanket-a-horse
- 4. Why Blanket Your Horse . www.weatherbeeta.com. . Available from: https://www.weatherbeeta.com/why-blanket-your-horse
What are your favorite horse stable blankets? Please share below!