As the weather turns crisp and the first frosts appear, every horse owner faces the same question — what blanket weight should my horse wear in the winter? Choosing the right rug isn’t just about comfort; it’s about keeping your horse healthy and happy through fluctuating temperatures. Whether you’re deciding between stable rugs, turnout rugs, or layering with under rugs, understanding rug weights and your horse’s coat type (clipped or unclipped) will help you make the best choice for your climate and your horse’s needs.
Understanding Horse Rug Weights
A rug’s weight refers to its fill — the insulating layer inside the blanket. Each type of rug serves a unique purpose, and the right combination ensures warmth without overheating.
- Lightweight: 0g–150g
- Mediumweight: 150g–250g
- Heavyweight: 300g–400g
Stable Rugs: Comfort in the Barn
Stable rugs are designed to keep your horse warm and comfortable while stabled. Since there’s no wind or rain inside, your main concern is maintaining a steady body temperature.
Stable Rug Temperature Guide (°F):
- Above 50°F: No rug for unclipped horses. Clipped horses may need a lightweight stable sheet (around 100g).
- 40–50°F: Use a lightweight stable rug (100–150g) for clipped horses or those that chill easily.
- 30–40°F: A mediumweight rug (150–250g) keeps most horses comfortable.
- Below 30°F: A heavyweight stable rug (300–400g) is best for clipped or older horses.
For unclipped horses, remember that their natural coat provides excellent insulation — you can usually drop one weight lighter than you’d use for a clipped horse.
Turnout Rugs: Protection Against Wind and Rain
When your horse is outdoors, a turnout rug shields them from wind, rain, and snow while allowing for freedom of movement. Waterproofing and breathability matter just as much as insulation.
Turnout Rug Temperature Guide (°F):
- 50–60°F: A no-fill or lightweight turnout (0g–100g) keeps your horse dry on drizzly days.
- 40–50°F: A mediumweight turnout (150g–200g) suits clipped or thin-coated horses.
- 30–40°F: A medium-heavy turnout (250g–300g) adds needed warmth for most clipped horses.
- Below 30°F: A heavyweight turnout (300g–400g) or layering system is ideal for sub-freezing days.
Horse Rug Weight Guide by Temperature (°F)
| Temperature (°F) | Unclipped Horse | Clipped Horse |
|---|---|---|
| Above 50°F |
Turnout Rug: None or 0g (no-fill) Stable Rug: None or 0g (sheet if needed) |
Turnout Rug: 50–100g (lightweight) Stable Rug: 100g (lightweight stable sheet) |
| 40–50°F |
Turnout Rug: 100–150g (lightweight) Stable Rug: 100g (light or midweight) |
Turnout Rug: 150–200g (mediumweight) Stable Rug: 150–200g (medium weight) |
| 30–40°F |
Turnout Rug: 150–200g (mediumweight) Stable Rug: 150g (medium weight) |
Turnout Rug: 250–300g (medium-heavy) Stable Rug: 200–250g (medium-heavy) |
| 20–30°F |
Turnout Rug: 250–300g (medium-heavy) Stable Rug: 200–250g (medium-heavy) |
Turnout Rug: 300–400g (heavyweight) Stable Rug: 300–400g (heavyweight) |
| Below 20°F |
Turnout Rug: 300–400g (heavyweight) Stable Rug: 250–300g (heavyweight) |
Turnout Rug: 400g+ or layer with under rug (100–200g) Stable Rug: 400g+ or layer with under rug (100–200g) |
When to Add an Under Rug
An under rug (or liner) adds versatility to your blanketing setup. It’s a great way to fine-tune warmth without constantly switching rugs. Use one when:
- The temperature drops unexpectedly overnight.
- You want extra insulation under a medium or heavy rug.
- Your horse is fully clipped and needs consistent warmth.
Under rugs typically range from 100g–200g. Look for materials that prevent rubbing and wick moisture — such as the artificial rabbit skin lining found in Kentucky Horsewear’s stable rugs.
Clipped vs. Unclipped Horses
Clipping changes everything. A clipped horse loses much of its natural insulation, meaning they’ll need heavier rugs — sometimes a stable rug and an under rug combined. An unclipped horse, on the other hand, generates and retains more warmth naturally. Over-blanketing them can cause sweating, which can chill the horse later when temperatures drop again.
Quick tip:
• Clipped horse → one rug weight heavier
• Unclipped horse → one rug weight lighter
Over-Rugging vs. Under-Rugging
Over-rugging can lead to overheating, sweating, and skin irritation. Horses may even lose condition as they use energy to cool down.
Under-rugging forces your horse to burn calories to stay warm, which can lead to weight loss and stiffness.
A quick check: If the base of your horse’s ears feels comfortably warm (not hot or damp), you’re in the right range.
The Perfect Winter Rug Wardrobe
Every horse’s needs are unique, but here’s a simple way to build your winter rug collection:
- Lightweight stable or turnout rug for mild days or clipped horses in moderate weather.
- A medium-weight rug is your everyday go-to for most winter conditions.
- Heavyweight rug or under rug combination for freezing temperatures or fully clipped horses.
- Show rug or fleece cooler for traveling or keeping your horse warm after exercise.
Keep Your Horse Cozy and Stylish All Winter
Blanketing your horse is both an art and a science. By understanding rug weights, layering options, and your horse’s individual needs, you can ensure they stay comfortable, dry, and happy through the coldest months.