Colorado winters are no joke—temperatures swing wildly, winds can be fierce, and snowstorms often roll in without warning. With that kind of weather, it’s no surprise that horse owners often wonder: Does my horse need a blanket? And if so, what kind?

Let’s break down blanketing basics so you can make informed choices that keep your horse comfortable, safe, and healthy all winter long.

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Do Horses Really Need Blankets?

Not always! Horses are incredibly well-designed to handle cold weather. A healthy horse with a full winter coat, adequate shelter, and proper nutrition can stay warm in surprisingly low temperatures.

However, in Colorado, where temperatures can plunge, winds can be intense, and moisture is common, some horses do benefit from a blanket. The key is knowing when—and why—they need one.

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Horses That Typically Need Blanketing

Some horses are better equipped for winter than others. Blanketing is often recommended for:

Clipped Horses

A horse without its natural insulating winter coat will need blanketing to stay warm.

Senior Horses

Older horses may struggle to maintain body condition or regulate temperature.

Hard Keepers or Underweight Horses

These horses spend more calories staying warm and benefit from extra protection.

Horses with Certain Health Conditions

Compromised immune systems, metabolic issues, or chronic conditions can affect thermoregulation.

Horses Not Accustomed to Colorado Cold

Recent transplants from warmer states may need additional support their first winter.

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Temperature Guidelines for Blanketing

These ranges serve as a general rule of thumb:

Temperature	Healthy Horse with Full Coat	Clipped / Senior / Underweight Horse
50–40°F	No blanket	Sheet or Lightweight
40–30°F	No blanket or light sheet	Lightweight or medium
30–20°F	Light or medium	Medium to heavy
20–10°F	Medium	Heavy
Below 10°F	Heavy	Heavy + hood (if needed)

Wind, wetness, and individual horse needs can shift these ranges.
Wet + cold = blanket, even for hardy horses.

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Why Wind and Moisture Matter

Colorado’s winter weather doesn’t just bring low temperatures—it brings wind and snow. A horse can withstand cold temperatures, but when their coat becomes wet or the wind penetrates their hair fibers, their ability to regulate body heat drops quickly.

If it’s wet, windy, or both, blanketing becomes much more important if the horse doesn’t have access to proper shelter.

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Types of Winter Blankets

Turnout Sheets (0g)

Waterproof, no insulation—perfect for wet weather when temps are mild.

Lightweight Blankets (100g–150g)

Good for clipped horses or chilly but not freezing conditions.

Medium Weight (200g–250g)

A versatile Colorado winter staple.

Heavy Weight (300g+)

For bitter cold, thin horses, or extreme winter snaps.

Neck Covers / Hoods

Useful for clipped horses or during extreme cold and wind.

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Shelter Still Matters

Even the warmest blanket can’t replace shelter.

Horses in Colorado should have access to:

• A three-sided shelter
• Windbreaks
• Dry areas to stand
• Bedding or deep footing to reduce heat loss through the ground
• Access to ample forage

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Blanket Fit: More Important Than Weight

A poorly fitting blanket can cause rubs, restrict movement, and even cause injuries.

Check for:
• Wither pressure
• Shoulder mobility
• Belly strap snugness
• No slipping or shifting
• Correct length (should cover barrel, not tail)

A good rule: If you’re adjusting it constantly, it’s not the right fit.

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Do Not “Set It and Forget It”

Colorado weather changes fast.
Your blanket routine should too.

Daily checks should include:

• Removing blankets to inspect skin and weight
• Adjusting insulation based on weather
• Ensuring blankets stay waterproof
• Checking for rubs or shifting

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The Bottom Line

Blanketing isn’t one-size-fits-all. The best approach is based on your horse’s health, coat condition, environment, and how extreme the weather becomes. With the right blanket choices—and regular check-ins—you’ll help your horse stay warm, dry, and comfortable all Colorado winter long.