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Wet feathers: how wet do they really get?

Among horse owners, there is always debate about whether or not you should clip a horse’s leg feathers. Especially in winter, many choose to clip them to keep the legs dry or to make treatment easier. Some also believe it helps prevent mud fever during the wet months. But what is the actual purpose of feathers, and how bad is it if they get wet and muddy?

Welfare

9 December '25 • 1 min reading time

Feathers protect the skin from external influences

Breeds like Tinkers, draft horses and Friesians are known for their long leg hair. This wasn’t random; it was bred into them because they originally lived in wetter, rougher environments where the feathers served an important purpose. Feathers have several functions:

  • Weather protection: The long hair protects skin and tendons from cold, rain and mud. It keeps moisture out longer so the skin stays warm and dry.
  • Protection from insects and irritation: Flies, midges and pests struggle to get through the dense hair. It forms a natural barrier.
  • Natural leg protection: The hair works like soft leg guards, protecting against small branches, stones and rough terrain.
  • Improved water drainage: The structure of the feathers helps rainwater run down along the hair instead of gathering around the pastern.

Wet feathers are not a problem!

To us, wet or muddy feathers may look messy, and we often assume the horse is uncomfortable. But have you ever looked inside the wet feathers? If your horse walked through water, the outside will be wet — but the skin underneath is often completely dry. The feathers keep the moisture out. So wet or muddy feathers are absolutely not harmful. They are a natural protective layer.

But always check the legs!

Although feathered legs take longer to get wet, prolonged rain, mud or other conditions can still make the skin damp. Because it’s warm between the hairs, irritation can develop. Check regularly: Skin dry and clean? → no action needed. Spots, irritation or dampness? → step in early; consider clipping part of the feathers to allow proper treatment.

Conclusion: wet feathers are part of the deal

If your horse has feathers, wet feathers are simply part of winter. Of course you can provide dry areas, but always monitor the legs carefully and intervene when needed.

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