Rain blanket or unlined blanket

A rain blanket is an unlined, waterproof outdoor blanket. These blankets usually have a smooth lining, but fleece is also an option. Keep in mind that fleece can be rougher on the coat and can be compared to 50-100 grams of filling.

Rain blankets are thin blankets that are most commonly used and can be used in many situations. At the beginning and end of the winter season when temperatures are still high, these blankets are often used. These blankets ensure that horses stay dry and protected from any harsh winds. Unlined rain blankets provide minimal extra warmth to the horse and are ideal for horses that are not clipped. Uncut horses often need only an unlined rain blanket in the Dutch winters.

Winter blankets or lined blankets

All waterproof blankets with padding are called winter blankets or lined blankets. The thickness of the filling can range from 50 grams to 550 grams. These blankets usually have a smooth lining, but fleece is also an option. The fleece lining adds an extra 50-100 grams of warmth.

Once a horse is clipped, the shaved coat should be replaced with a lined winter blanket. The thickness of the blanket depends on the horse and the weather conditions.

For most horses in the Netherlands, it is not necessary to use more than 300 grams, even for clipped horses. Dutch winters are not so cold that more than 300 grams is necessary.

Liners and underblankets

Larger blanket brands make use of a liner system. These are liners (underblankets) that can be attached to the outer blanket via a Velcro system. The outer blanket usually has a thickness of 0 grams (unlined) or 100 grams. Underblankets are available in different thicknesses, allowing you to easily turn an unlined rain blanket into a warmer, lined winter blanket.

But when do you use which thickness?

That is a question we often get, but cannot provide a definitive answer. Blanket manufacturers often provide guidelines, but it depends heavily on the horse. One horse may be perfectly fine with an unlined rain blanket throughout the winter, while another horse may be most comfortable with 300 grams. The thickness of the blanket you choose (or whether you choose to go blanketless) depends entirely on the horse: is it sensitive to cold? Is it healthy? Is it older? Is the horse clipped?

It is important to choose a well-fitting blanket, just like you wouldn't wear a piece of clothing that doesn't fit properly. And to observe the horse carefully to determine the appropriate thickness. In terms of health, it is better to have the horse slightly underdressed than overheated. If the horse can move and has enough roughage, it will not get cold quickly. But with a too thick blanket, the horse may not be able to release its heat and may overheat.