Turnout blankets provide waterproof protection and insulation to keep your horse comfortable in various weather conditions. Available in a range of pollyfills from lightweight sheets (0 grams) to heavyweight blankets (300+ grams), turnouts help shield against wind, rain, and cold while allowing breathability and freedom of movement.
Choosing the right weight turnout for your horse is essential for their comfort, protection, and well-being. The proper weight depends on several factors, including climate, your horse's coat, living conditions, and individual needs.
This guide will help you make the best decision for your horse. By considering the following factors, you can ensure your horse stays warm, dry, and comfortable all winter long!
Turnout Blanket Temperature Guide
The primary factor in choosing a turnout blanket for your horse is temperature. While other factors also play a role, this chart serves as a helpful starting point:
Quick answer: Use a turnout sheet above 50°F, a medium-lite blanket from 40–50°F, a medium blanket from 30–40°F, and a heavyweight blanket below 30°F. Most horses should be blanketed when turned out below 40°F. Clipped horses, seniors, and thin horses need one step heavier.
| Outside Temperature | Blanket Weight | Polyfill | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60°F and above | No blanket | — | Horses are most comfortable between 40–80°F |
| 50–60°F | Turnout sheet (lite) | 0g | Rain and wind protection only; horses with thick winter coats |
| 40–50°F | Medium-lite turnout | 50–150g | Cool but not cold; light insulation without overheating |
| 30–40°F | Medium turnout | 180–250g | Clipped horses or any horse needing extra warmth in chilly conditions |
| Below 30°F | Heavy turnout | 300g+ | Maximum warmth; clipped, short-coated, or cold-sensitive horses |
| Below 20°F | Heavy turnout + liner | 300g+ plus layer | Layer a sheet or liner under a heavyweight for adjustable warmth |
This chart is a starting point. Always factor in wind chill, precipitation, and whether your horse lives in a stall or an open pasture.
| Temperature | Unclipped Horse | Clipped Horse |
|---|---|---|
| 50–60°F | No blanket | Turnout sheet (0g) |
| 40–50°F | Turnout sheet (0g) | Medium-lite (50–150g) |
| 30–40°F | Medium-lite (50–150g) | Medium (180–250g) |
| 20–30°F | Medium (180–250g) | Heavy (300g+) |
| Below 20°F | Heavy (300g+) | Heavy + liner |
* Temperature chart is to be used as a guide only
Understanding Blanket Weights
Horse turnout blankets are available in four weight categories, each with an increasing amount of polyfill (measured in grams).
Lite Turnout Sheets (No Fill / 0g polyfill)
- Best for mild weather (50°F and above) or as a wind/rain barrier.
- Provides minimal warmth but offers protection from rain, wind, and dirt.
- Ideal For: Horses with thick winter coats that need only light coverage.
Medium-Lite Turnout Blankets (50-150g polyfill)
- A great in-between option for cool but not cold temperatures (40°F to 55°F).
- Offers light insulation while preventing overheating.
- Ideal For: Horses that need a bit more warmth than a sheet but don't require a full medium-weight blanket.
Medium Turnout Blankets (180-250g polyfill)
- Suitable for moderate temperatures (30°F to 50°F).
- Provides moderate warmth without overheating.
- Ideal For: Clipped horses or those that need extra warmth in chilly conditions.
Heavy Turnout Blankets (300+g polyfill)
- Designed for cold temperatures (below 30°F).
- Provides maximum warmth and insulation.
-
Ideal For: Horses that are clipped, have short coats, or are sensitive to the cold.
Factors When Choosing Blanket Weight
Temperature
- Horses are most comfortable when the temperature is between 40-80° F. You should strongly consider blanketing turned out horses when it drops below 40° F.
- Consider average winter temperatures in your area and reference the Blanket Weight By Temperature chart above.
- Factor in wind chill, precipitation, and barn vs. pastures living.
Your Horse's Coat
- Unclipped horses generate their own insulation and may need lighter blankets.
- Clipped horses lack natural insulation and require heavier blankets.
- Some horse breeds have a thicker coat and can tolerate colder temperatures without a blanket. In contrast, breeds with finer coats may need a blanket to stay warm.
Living Conditions
- Horses in stalls may require less insulation than those living outside.
- Horses in open pastures may need more protection against wind and rain.
Individual Horse Needs (Health, Condition, Activity Level)
- Senior horses and young horses may need extra warmth.
- Horses with a weakened immune system or those recovering from an illness may need a blanket to help regulate their body temperature.
- Horses that are underweight may benefit from a blanket to help conserve energy and maintain their weight.
- Horses that are active and moving around generate more body heat and may not need a blanket as much as horses that are inactive.
- Horses that are prone to overheating may need lighter blankets.
Final Tips
- Regularly check your horse: Ensure they are neither too hot nor too cold. Monitor your horse's behavior and body language to determine if they are comfortable or not.
- Avoid overblanketing your horse: It's crucial not to over-blanket your horse, as this can lead to sweating, discomfort, and even illness.
- Remove blankets when possible: Generally, use a blanket only when necessary an remove it during the day to allow your horse's coat to breathe and grow.
- Fit matters: A well-fitted blanket prevents rubbing, slipping, and discomfort. Learn how to properly size and fit your horse blanket.
- Layering is an option: You can layer a lightweight sheet under a heavier blanket for flexibility. Additionally, many turnouts are compatible with liners that let you adjust the blanket's weight as needed..
By considering these factors, you can ensure your horse stays warm, dry, and comfortable all winter long!
Blanket Experts Here to Help
Still unsure on what weight for your horse? Contact Us for personalized advice!
Horse Blanketing: Common Questions
At what temperature should I blanket my horse?
Horses are most comfortable between 40°F and 80°F. You should strongly consider blanketing a turned-out horse when the temperature drops below 40°F. Factor in wind chill and precipitation as well, since a wet, windy 45°F day is harder on a horse than a dry 35°F one.
What weight blanket does my horse need at 30 degrees?
At 30–40°F, use a medium turnout blanket with 180–250g of polyfill. Below 30°F, move to a heavyweight turnout with 300g or more. A clipped horse should go one step heavier than an unclipped horse at the same temperature.
What do the gram weights on horse blankets mean?
The gram number is the amount of polyfill insulation in the blanket. Turnout sheets have no fill (0g) and provide rain and wind protection only. Medium-lite blankets have 50–150g, medium blankets have 180–250g, and heavyweight blankets have 300g or more.
Do clipped horses need heavier blankets?
Yes. Clipped horses lack their natural coat insulation and need roughly one weight step heavier than an unclipped horse in the same conditions. Senior horses, underweight horses, and horses recovering from illness also benefit from extra warmth.
Can I layer horse blankets?
Yes. Layering a lightweight sheet or liner underneath a heavier turnout lets you adjust warmth as the weather changes without buying another blanket. Many turnouts are designed to work with a matching liner system.
Can you over-blanket a horse?
Yes, and it is a common mistake. Over-blanketing causes sweating, discomfort, and can lead to illness. Check your horse regularly to make sure they are neither too hot nor too cold, and remove blankets during the day when conditions allow so the coat can breathe.