Feathers are the long hairs that grow on the back of a horse’s lower legs, just above the pastern and the hoof. These hairs are also known as “feathering” or “leg hair.” They mainly occur in certain breeds, such as draft horses and Friesians. In some cold-blooded breeds, the feathers start halfway down the lower legs and can become very dense. Often, the feathers are darker in color than the rest of the coat.

Why do horses have feathers?

Feathers have a natural function: they protect the lower legs from dirt, moisture, and insects. In winter, they help keep the legs warm, and in muddy conditions they prevent excessive dirt and mud from sticking directly to the skin. In some breeds, feathers are also a breed characteristic and contribute to the horse’s typical appearance. Over the years, longer and thicker feathers have been selectively bred in certain breeds because people consider them attractive and breed-typical. In the Friesian horse, for example, feathering is an official breed characteristic for which horses receive points during studbook inspections.

Advantages and disadvantages of feathers in horses

The main advantage of feathers is the natural protection they provide. However, feathers can also have disadvantages: if they become too long or thick and are not properly maintained, they can trap dirt and become matted. The skin underneath can then become damp, allowing fungi and bacteria to thrive. Parasites such as mites also like to hide in thick, warm feathers. This can lead to itching, skin irritation, dandruff, mud fever, and even CPL, a chronic disorder of the lymphatic system. It is therefore important to brush the feathers regularly and keep them clean (and dry).

Leave the feathers?

Some horse owners trim the feathers shorter in summer so the legs stay cooler and collect less dirt. If there are skin problems underneath the feathers, it may be necessary to clip them in order to keep the skin clean and dry and to treat it properly.