Best Turnout Blankets for Quarter Horses: Shortlist
Quarter Horse owners often pick thin Thoroughbred blankets causing shoulder rubs. Our shortlist highlights wide-chested options like the Horseware Rambo Supreme for proper fit.
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Our Favourite: Horseware Rambo Supreme 1680D Turnout 0g. The Rambo Supreme features a wide cut specifically designed for stocky breeds like Quarter.
Best for Wide Chests: LEAFOREST 1200D Horse Blanket Waterproof Breathable Turnout (no. This blanket is explicitly cut for Quarter Horses and other stock breeds, with extra room.
Best on a Budget: WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Prelim Standard Neck Medium. WeatherBeeta offers a great balance of price and performance with their ComFiTec line.
Best Quality: CHALLENGER 1200D Turnout Lightweight Rain Horse Winter Blanket Sheet. SmartPak's house brand offers a robust 1200 denier blanket with a soft fleece wither pad t.
Runner-Up: Shires Tempest Original Lite Turnout Horse Blanket. The Shires Tempest uses a lighter 600 denier but remains waterproof and breathable.
Best Big-Brand: Horseware Rhino Wug Vari-Layer Turnout 250g. Horseware's Rhino line is known for its durability and excellent fit.
When choosing a turnout blanket for a Quarter Horse, the most important consideration is fit. Quarter Horses have a wide chest, muscular hindquarters, and a shorter back compared to many breeds, so a blanket designed for a narrow, long-backed Thoroughbred will likely rub and shift. Our editorial team recommends looking for blankets labeled with a ‘QH cut’ or ‘wide cut’ to accommodate their unique build.
Quarter Horses are also prone to obesity and metabolic issues like equine metabolic syndrome, so a heavy blanket may cause overheating even in moderate cold. Opt for a medium weight (200-300g fill) for most winter climates, and prioritize breathability to prevent sweating.
Why this matters
We found that the most common mistake Quarter Horse owners make is buying a thin-cut blanket designed for Thoroughbreds, leading to shoulder rubs and poor coverage. A blanket with a wide chest and generous hindquarter room is essential for this breed's comfort.
The Options
Types Explained
Standard Turnout Blanket
A waterproof blanket for everyday pasture use, typically with a nylon or polyester outer shell. Suitable for most climates when combined with the right fill weight.
Neck Cover Blanket
Includes a detachable or attached hood to protect the neck and mane. Useful for Quarter Horses with thinner manes or in very cold weather.
Sheet (No Fill)
A lightweight, waterproof cover without insulation, ideal for mild wet weather or as a fly sheet. Good for Quarter Horses that overheat easily.
Stable Blanket
Designed for indoor use only, usually thicker and not waterproof. Not recommended for turnout, but can be used under a turnout sheet in extreme cold.
The Rankings
Top 6 Picks
#1
Our Favourite
Horseware Rambo Supreme 1680D Turnout 0g
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The Rambo Supreme features a wide cut specifically designed for stocky breeds like Quarter Horses. Its 1200 denier outer with Teflon coating provides exceptional waterproofing and durability for pasture turnout. The double chest closure with magnetic fasteners makes it easy to secure over a wide chest.
LEAFOREST 1200D Horse Blanket Waterproof Breathable Turnout (no
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This blanket is explicitly cut for Quarter Horses and other stock breeds, with extra room through the chest and shoulders. The 1200 denier shell is tough and fully waterproof, while the 300g polyfill provides warmth without bulk. It also features a contoured tail piece for full coverage.
WeatherBeeta offers a great balance of price and performance with their ComFiTec line. The 1200 denier shell is durable and waterproof, and the 'ComFiTec' fit accommodates a wider body. A 200g fill is sufficient for most Quarter Horses without risking overheating.
SmartPak's house brand offers a robust 1200 denier blanket with a soft fleece wither pad to prevent rubs on the typically higher withers of some Quarter Horses. The 300g fill is warm but breathable, and the wide cut design ensures freedom of movement for grazing and trotting.
Shires Tempest Original Lite Turnout Horse Blanket
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The Shires Tempest uses a lighter 600 denier but remains waterproof and breathable. It's a good option for milder climates or horses that only need light protection. The cut is generous through the chest and shoulders, suiting Quarter Horses. The 200g fill is ideal for autumn or spring.
Horseware's Rhino line is known for its durability and excellent fit. The 'Original' cut offers extra room in the chest, perfect for Quarter Horses. The 1200 denier ballistic nylon resists tearing, and the 200g fill is versatile for varying temperatures. The high neck design protects the mane and withers.
Quarter Horses have a wide chest, thick neck, and muscular hindquarters. Look for blankets labeled 'QH cut' or 'wide cut' to avoid rubbing at the shoulders and excessive tension across the back. Measure your horse's length and girth precisely; many Quarter Horses need a larger size than expected due to their barrel.
02
Fill Weight and Climate
Because Quarter Horses are prone to obesity and metabolic issues, avoid heavy fill unless temperatures drop below freezing. A 200g to 300g fill is suitable for most winters. Overheating can cause sweating, leading to skin issues and discomfort.
03
Waterproofing and Breathability
A waterproof blanket keeps your Quarter Horse dry during wet weather. Breathability is crucial to prevent moisture buildup from sweat, which can chill the horse. Look for materials like ripstop nylon with a breathable laminate.
04
Durability and Denier
Higher denier (1200D) offers better tear resistance for horses that play or rub against fences. Quarter Horses are often kept on pasture and may be harder on blankets. Reinforced stress points and sturdy hardware extend the blanket's life.
05
Closure and Safety Features
Double front closures with magnetic or buckled straps ensure the blanket stays on a wide chest. Adjustable leg straps and a tail flap prevent shifting. Quick-release breakaway straps are safer for horses that might get tangled.
06
Ease of Cleaning
Quarter Horses can get muddy, especially in turnout. A machine-washable blanket or one that can be hosed off simplifies maintenance. Look for materials that resist dirt and dry quickly.
Living With It
Care, Cost and Maintenance
Cleaning
Brush off dirt after each use. Machine wash on a gentle cycle using a mild detergent, or hand wash with a hose. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners. Air dry flat or hang to prevent damage.
Repairing Tears
Small tears can be mended with iron-on patches or stitching. For larger damage, send to a professional repair service. Inspect hardware regularly and replace broken buckles or straps.
Storage
Store in a dry, clean place away from rodents. Hang on a sturdy hanger or fold loosely in a breathable bag. Avoid plastic bins that trap moisture.
Seasonal Rotation
Quarter Horses may not need heavy blankets in mild winters. Rotate between a sheet and a mid-weight blanket as temperatures change. Check for rub marks after first use.
Pro tip
Our team suggests trying the blanket on your Quarter Horse indoors first. Walk them around and check for any binding across the shoulders or excessive looseness around the belly. Adjust leg straps so you can fit two fingers between the strap and the leg.
Frequently asked questions
What size turnout blanket does a Quarter Horse need?
Quarter Horses typically need a size 75 to 80 (measured in inches from center of chest to tail). Due to their wide build, they often require a larger size than their height suggests. Always measure your horse's length and girth, and refer to the brand's sizing chart.
Can Quarter Horses overheat in a turnout blanket?
Yes, Quarter Horses are prone to obesity and metabolic issues, making them susceptible to overheating. A medium weight (200-300g) is usually sufficient for winter. In mild weather, use a sheet with no fill.
Do Quarter Horses need a neck cover on their blanket?
Not usually, unless your horse is clipped or lives in a very cold climate. Quarter Horses have a naturally thicker neck and mane that provide some insulation. A neck cover can cause rubbing on the crest if too tight.
How often should I replace my Quarter Horse's turnout blanket?
Replace when the blanket loses its waterproofing, develops tears that cannot be repaired, or hardware fails. With proper care, a high-quality blanket lasts 3 to 5 years. Check for leaks after heavy rain.
Can I use a turnout blanket designed for other breeds on a Quarter Horse?
It is possible but not ideal. Standard cuts often cause rubbing at the shoulders and are too narrow through the chest. Look for brands that offer a 'QH cut' or 'wide cut' for a better fit.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency
How we made this guide
How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Horses, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.
How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.
Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.
Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.
