Blanketing Debates: To or Not? Vote Below!

Should you blanket your horse or let their natural coat do the work? Few topics spark more debate in barns and winter warmup pens. Here is what real riders consider — and how Draw It Out® Gel supports muscle comfort year-round, blanket or no blanket.

Draw It Out® Horse Health Care News

The great winter barn debate

Riders rarely agree on blanketing. Some swear by heavy turnouts the moment temperatures drop. Others let winter coats grow out naturally. The truth is there is no universal answer — just what keeps your horse healthiest, happiest, and most comfortable in your climate and workload.

Reasons some riders choose to blanket

• Clipped horses: If your horse is body clipped, blanketing is essential.
• Older or hard keepers: Some seniors and thinner horses struggle to stay warm.
• Wet, windy climates: A soaked winter coat loses insulating ability.
• Performance horses: Riders may blanket to avoid heavy winter coats and long cooling-out times.

Reasons some riders do not blanket

• Thick natural winter coats: Horses are built with a weatherproofing system of their own.
• Overheating concerns: Horses run warmer than we do and may sweat under blankets.
• Behavioral comfort: Some horses do not enjoy the feel of multiple layers.
• Low maintenance needs: Minimal blanketing reduces daily management.

Muscle care matters either way

Whether your horse stays blanketed all winter or grows a full bear coat, their muscles still work just as hard. Cold weather tightens soft tissue. Warmups get longer. Cooldowns take more time.

That is where Draw It Out® Gel fits in — supporting comfort in muscles and soft tissue year-round, no matter what they are wearing.

• Sensation-free: Calm, clean, show-safe formula for winter-sensitive horses.
• Stay-put: Ideal under wraps, boots, or after blanketing routines.
• Year-round support: Cold mornings, hard workouts, senior horses — it fits any season.

Now we want your vote

We are running a community poll. Tell us:

• I blanket.
• I do not blanket.
• It depends on the horse.

Your insights help other riders make informed winter-care decisions.

The bottom line

Blanketing debates are not about right or wrong. They are about what works for your horse, your weather, and your routine. Trust your instincts. Listen to your horse. And keep their muscles supported through every season.

Blanketing FAQ

Does every horse need a blanket?

No. Many horses grow effective winter coats and stay warm naturally. Others, such as clipped horses, seniors, or thin horses, often benefit from blanketing.

Can a horse overheat under a blanket?

Yes. Horses run warmer than humans, and overdressing them can cause sweating, chills, or skin issues. Daily temperature checks matter.

Does blanketing affect muscle comfort?

Blanketing affects warmth but not muscle workload. Cold weather still tightens soft tissue. Draw It Out® Gel helps support comfort after rides or turnout.

Is blanketing better for performance horses?

Many riders blanket performance horses to manage coat thickness and cooling-out times, but the choice depends on routine, climate, and individual comfort.