As winter sets in, proper horse blanketing becomes essential for equestrians looking to keep their horses comfortable and healthy. Knowing how to choose the right blanket weight, understanding warmth qualities, which denier is best for your horse, and how temperature shifts affect which blanket you choose, are all important factors for consideration. Understanding the blanketing why’s are important in making the best decision to ensure your horse is protected from the elements, stays warm, and helps prevent health issues.

Key Factors for Horse Blanketing: Denier and Gram Fill Explained

Horse blankets are crafted with specific denier and gram fill measurements, two crucial elements for warmth and durability. Here’s a breakdown of these metrics:

1. Denier (D) for Horse Blanket Durability

• Definition: Denier measures the strength and thickness of blanket fibers. A higher denier rating means thicker, more durable fabric, ideal for horses that rub or play in turnout.

Common Denier Ratings:

• 600D: Lightweight and less durable, best for stable blankets and horses kept indoors.
• 1200D: Medium durability, suitable for moderate turnout, balancing comfort and protection.
• 1680D: Heavy-duty, designed for horses in turnout prone to rough play or facing harsh winter weather.

2. Gram Fill for Blanket Warmth

• Definition: Gram fill measures the insulation level in the blanket. Higher gram ratings mean greater warmth, similar to the insulation used in jackets for people.

Typical Gram Fill Levels:

• 0g – No insulation (Sheet): Ideal for rainy or windy days to protect your horse from mild elements in temps that don’t require built in warmth.
• 50-100g (Lightweight): Minimal insulation, best for fall days or horses with thick winter coats.
• 150-250g (Medium Weight): Moderate warmth, ideal for winter temperatures that range from mild to cold.
• 300-400g (Heavyweight): High insulation, perfect for extremely cold weather or clipped horses needing extra warmth.

Additional Winter Horse Care Blanketing Tips

When deciding on horse blanket types and weights, consider these important factors:

Living Arrangements: Horses spending most of their time outdoors may require heavier blankets, while those kept indoors will likely need lighter options.

Is Your Horse Clipped? Clipped horses lack the natural insulation provided by their winter coats and generally need additional warmth.

Daily Temperature Monitoring: Checking both morning lows and daily highs ensures you blanket appropriately. It’s safer to keep your horse slightly cooler than too warm, as sweating can cause chills and increase the risk of colic.

Blanket Wizard: Our Dover Saddlery Blanket Wizard will recommend the optimal sheet or blanket for your horse based on key criteria and your local weather forecast. Find your local recommendations here: Dover Saddlery Blanket Wizard

Combining the right blanket weight, gram fill, denier, and paying close attention to daily temperatures can help you blanket your horse effectively all winter long. Use our temperature-based blanketing chart for quick guidance on choosing the best blanket to keep your horse warm and comfortable.

What does your horse’s wardrobe look like? Do you have a favorite blanket with a fun print? Share your photos with us on Instagram and Facebook by tagging @doversaddlery!

Peacock fillis irons have been the longtime standby in safety stirrups for English riding disciplines. These stainless steel stirrups feature a branch composed of an elastic band and a leather tab which together are intended to release a rider’s foot during a fall. Design innovations have given riders alternatives to the rubber-band-and-leather-tab breakaway feature. For riders desiring safety stirrups with a streamlined and discreet release feature or those that are much lighter in weight, the next generation of safety stirrups has arrived. And here are our current top sellers!

LeMieux^® Vector Control Stirrups

Weighing only about a quarter of a pound, this technical stirrup is machined from aviation grade aluminum to achieve an impressive strength-to-weight ratio. An integrated, spring-loaded safety arm boasts a two-stage release system that prevents unintentional opening. This safety arm locks into the base of the main frame. Under maximum pressure as when landing a fence, the rider’s weight is spread evenly across the stirrup and the safety arm remains closed. When pressure is put onto the safety arm, as during a fall, it is designed to release.

This stirrup also has an ergonomic and exceptionally grippy foot surface. The apex of the frame is recessed and offset to encourage a 45° outward orientation. This design promotes an optimal foot angle and makes regaining a lost stirrup easy.

Flex-On^® Safe-On Inclined Ultra Grip Stirrups
This stirrup is made of environmentally friendly composite material over a spring steel frame. A flexible outer branch is designed to release the rider’s foot in the event of a fall at 40kg (approximately 88 pounds) of force. If the outer branch release triggers, it is easily snapped back into place with no replacement parts necessary.

In addition to the quick-release feature, this ergonomic design has shock-absorbing elastomers that help alleviate joint fatigue in the rider. The inclined tread grips the bottom of the rider’s boot while promoting proper foot positioning and optimal riding posture. The pair weighs only about two pounds.

Herm Sprenger^® Aero Stirrups
Developed and precision-manufactured in Germany, this stirrup is designed to release a rider’s foot in the event of a fall by opening under foot pressure. The lateral movable element allows the foot to be released sideways, upward, forward or backward—all in a design that sets new standards.

This stirrup offers riders great support with an extra-wide, fiberglass-reinforced tread to which stainless steel spikes can be added. The tread is inclined 5° to help support the stability of the rider’s thigh and to increase comfort. Because the stirrup follows the natural curve of the rider’s leg, it aids leg positioning. A replaceable plastic stirrup pad has a shock-absorbing effect to help protect the rider’s joints and ligaments.

The angled and twisted stirrup-leather eyelet makes the Aero optimally balanced and easier to pick up. It also brings the rider’s leg closer to the horse. Aluminum of the type used in the aerospace industry ensures a long lifespan and a breaking load of over 1,600 kilograms.

With thoughts of safety, check out these quick-release stirrups and more here!

Are you riding in safety stirrups that you love? Share your photos with us on Instagram and Facebook by tagging @doversaddlery!

Whether you’re already a fan of Samshield helmets or you’d like to try something new, the Samshield 2.0 Helmet offers notable advances you’ll want to consider. The revolutionary, original Samshield helmet gave riders unprecedented comfort and elegance. The unique design eliminated pressure on the rider’s forehead, provided amazing—yet discreet—airflow and offered a sophisticated look appropriate for any ring.

Now, based on two decades of experience and four years in research and development, the enhanced design of the Samshield 2.0 Helmet delivers even more: ultimate safety, optimum airflow and unrivaled comfort.

Ultimate Safety

The 2.0 Helmet is designed in collaboration with professional riders and made from premium materials to deliver new standards in protection.

• Polycarbonate used in the shell is the same material used for elite motorcycle helmets.
• Inner shell is made of variable-density polystyrene to provide optimal dissipation of impact energy.
• Liner (removable and washable) has a much stronger clip system than hook-and-loop varieties.
• Memory foam in the liner maintains a perfect fit, ensuring constant thickness over years of use.
• Semi-rigid chin strap eliminates any risk of the helmet tipping over in the event of violent movement.
• Meets current safety standards: CE EN1384-17 and ASTM/SEI 2023 certifications.

Optimum Airflow

An innovative six-point ventilation system draws fresh air discreetly into the front of the helmet, through the shell, and pushes warm air out the back. The design keeps air moving over the rider’s head, yet the subtle vents maintain a polished look on the exterior of the helmet.

Unrivaled Comfort
In addition to the exceptional airflow for cooling, the 2.0 Helmet feels comfortable in any ride.

• Thermoregulatory materials in the liner help manage heat and moisture.
• Memory foam in the liner provides cushioning.
• A new, integrated chin strap works well with all hair styles and allows a perfect fit even in the presence of a hair bun.
• The liner is washable and replaceable, giving you the opportunity to maintain a hygienic helmet.

Extended Sizes

The 2.0 range brings great news for riders who struggle to find larger sized helmets. An extra-large size shell is available and covers sizes 61XL (7⁵/₈), 62 (7¾), 63 (7⁷/₈) and 64 (8).

Browse the new Samshield 2.0 Helmets, offered in Shadowmatt and Miss Shield styles.

Already a Samshield fan? Share your photos with us on Instagram and Facebook by tagging @doversaddlery!

Back on Track’s next-generation therapeutic sheet will thrill performance horse owners everywhere with its great fit and strategic features. Based on the popular original Therapeutic Mesh Sheet, the Royal Mesh Deluxe Sheet delivers all the benefits you and your horse appreciate. And it also provides an improved fit, a better closure system and easy-to-use neck cover attachments.

New to Back on Track technology? It leverages ceramic-infused textiles in innovative designs for horses, dogs and humans. The fibers reflect a horse’s body energy in infrared waves, creating a soothing thermal effect. It helps increase blood circulation, which in turn eases stiff and tight muscles, prepares muscles and tissues for exercise and aids recovery from exertion. The technology can be used to help loosen sore backs, ease arthritic discomfort and help muscles become less inflamed. These comforting effects also tend to help animals relax. 

The Royal Redesign

To ensure your horse’s comfort and mobility and to maximize your investment, the Royal Mesh Deluxe Sheet offers these key features:

• The cut ensures a good fit around your horse’s neck and sufficient room at the points of the shoulders.
• T-buckles at the chest make on and off easier and faster.
• A woven, anti-chafe shoulder lining and the absence of closed gussets ensure optimal freedom of motion and fit.
• Reinforced panels around the belly surcingle attachments enhance durability.
• Improved, sewn-in attachments along the neckline make adding the optional neck cover easier.
• Webbing placed only along the spine rather than on the sides of the barrel gives the sheet a lighter and softer feel.

The redesigned Royal Mesh Deluxe Neck Cover, sold separately from the sheet, extends the therapeutic effects of the sheet to your horse’s neck and poll. Made without metal snap hooks to keep it lightweight and comfortable, it features:

• Hook-and-loop strap at the poll for optional attachment to a halter crown.
• Hook-and-loop fasteners along the neck to allow easy on and off.
• Woven, anti-chafe lining along the mane to protect hair.
• Hook-and-loop attachments to secure the cover to the sheet.  

The Royal Mesh Deluxe Sheet is a helpful option for horses facing various issues such as sore backs, tight muscles or stiffness. Its therapeutic effects can be enjoyed before exercise to help prepare muscles and after exercise to aid recovery and prepare the body for the next day’s efforts.

Shop our Back on Track Royal collection here.

Is your horse already enjoying the benefits of Back on Track therapeutic products? Share your photos with us on Instagram and Facebook by tagging @doversaddlery!

Your budding young horse lover is about to have a dream come true: submersion in horses and ponies at an upcoming camp! Great experiences for young and beginning riders, most horse camps include riding lessons plus unmounted instruction on horse handling, grooming, feeding, tack cleaning and barn chores.

Camp days are packed with activities, education—and opportunities to make new friends of the two- and four-legged varieties. At Dover Saddlery, we’ve outfitted thousands of riders for horse camps. Here’s how to prepare your youngster for a good camp experience. We’ve included a brief explanation about the importance or benefits of each item on our list.

Must-Have Horse Camp Equipment

Riding Helmet: Your camp may offer the use of an equestrian helmet, or you may wish to purchase your child’s own. Either one should meet the current safety standard and should be labeled ASTM F1163-15/SEI Certified. The helmet should fit snugly, fasten securely, allow a clear line of vision and stay in place as your child moves. Helmets made for bike riding do not offer enough protection for horseback riding and should not be substituted for a well-fitting equestrian helmet.

Example: TuffRider® Starter Helmet

Boots/Closed-Toe Shoes: Your child’s footwear should feature a one-inch heel. The heel is a safety measure that helps prevent a foot from sliding through a stirrup. The boot or riding shoe should preferably be made of leather or synthetic leather (as opposed rubber) for overall foot protection. Zip- or lace-front paddock boots are a perfect choice for camp because they can carry your rider through all the activities of the day.

Example: Riding Sport™ Kids’ Provenance Zip Paddock Boots

Breeches, Jodhpurs or Tights: Riding pants give kids a comfort and performance advantage over jeans for riding. Breeches, jodhpurs and tights are made of smooth, stretchy and snug-fitting fabrics that resist bunching and let riders move freely. Seams are generally minimal or strategically placed to avoid chafing skin. Reinforced or grippy areas at the knees, called knee patches, offer added stability and support in the saddle.

Example: Riding Sport™ Kids’ Poppy Knee-Patch Tight

Optional Horse Camp Equipment

Riding Gloves: Thin and stretchy, riding gloves protect hands from friction caused by reins. Areas in contact with reins are reinforced to add durability and coverage. Children, especially beginning riders, can be fussy at first about the feel of riding gloves but they are worth considering for safety.

Example: Kids’ Perfect Fit Gloves

Riding Tops and Tees: Any comfortable shirt that lets a rider move freely will work well. Riding shirts, however, are made of performance fabrics loaded with benefits. The lightweight fabrics wick sweat, provide breathability and stretch freely. Some shirts are made of cooling fabrics or have cooling mesh inserts. Many riding shirts offer amazing UV protection, shielding skin from sunburn.    

Example: CoolBlast® 100 Kids’ Colleen Long Sleeve Shirt

Half Chaps: If your child will wear paddock boots, they can be topped with half chaps. This lower legwear creates the look and feel of a tall riding boot. Half chaps go on and off easily and provide comfortable, extra protection and support to the rider’s lower legs.

Example: Riding Sport™ Kids’ Synthetic Suede Half Chaps

You can also shop our entire selection of Kids’ apparel and equipment here.

If you have any questions on fitting your child with riding apparel, we’re here to help. We’re particularly careful about helmet fit. We also take pride in offering starter items at budget-friendly prices, perfect for growing riders or those just getting introduced to equestrian sports. Stop by any of our Dover Saddlery retail locations or give us a call! On our website, our Equestrian Library is also a great free resource.

Is your summer riding camp checklist complete? Share your photos with us on Instagram and Facebook by tagging @doversaddlery!

Soft, smooth, lightweight and full of advanced technologies, riding shirt fabrics get better every year. Performance properties built into or applied to the fibers of technical fabrics give riders competition shirts that deliver multiple benefits. While all technical fabrics are not created equal, you’ll find these assets in most show shirts across most brands:

• Moisture wicking: Fabric actively pulls perspiration away from your skin toward the exterior surface where it can evaporate efficiently.

• Breathability: Fabric is constructed to allow body vapors to pass through to the exterior, keeping you feeling drier and more comfortable.

• Quick drying: Fabric washes easily and feels dry to the touch rapidly. Quick-dry properties are exceptionally helpful for multi-day shows, as you can rinse a show shirt at night have a dry shirt by morning.

• Active stretch: Fabrics are made with elastic in the fibers and/or constructed to provide two- or four-way stretch. Some elasticity is more extreme than others, but all performance fabrics are designed to promote your freedom of movement.

• Ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) rating: UPF is the rating system applied to apparel. It tells you how much a fabric can protect you from UVA and UVB radiation from the sun. The higher the rating, the higher level of overall protection it provides. A UPF rating of 15–20 is adequate, 25–35 very good and 40+ is excellent at preventing UV transmission through the fabric to your skin.

With the relaxation of some competition apparel rules, riding shirts this year come in colors and microprints that truly reflect your personality when you slip out of your show coat. Strategic comfort features, such as mesh or lace inserts for extra airflow, are also increasingly stylish. Here are some notable new favorites we’re sure you’ll appreciate.

Beacon Hill: New Stain- and Odor-Resistant Fabric
Beacon Hill by Essex Classics recreated their best-selling classic wrap-collar show shirt in new UPF 50+ rated fabric that stretches, wicks—and provides odor and stain resistance! Now show-day stress and spills won’t ruin your shirt. Cooling mesh under-sleeve panels and pretty trims make it a must-have whether you opt for the long sleeve or short sleeve style.

Fair Play^®: Chic Shirt Made with Recycled Fibers
Concerned for the environment, Fair Play introduced technical fabrics made with recycled fibers into their feminine yet athletic designs. The Alexis Long Sleeve Show Shirt is one example; its elastic, eco-friendly fabric wicks, breathes and protects against UV rays. Stylish elastic-lace inserts increase airflow, while embroidery and crystals make standout finishing touches.

R.J. Classics: Microprint Fabric & Perforated Panels
The Liv Long Sleeve Show Shirt by R.J. Classics carries extra style into the show ring with a sophisticated snaffle bit-themed microprint. Luxurious technical fabric rated UPF 50+ offers all the performance benefits you crave, and it pairs beautifully with perforated panels that boost breathability.

Shop our entire selection of show shirts here and be prepared for show season!

What show shirt will you be tucking into your show breech this year? We’d love to see your choice! Share your photos with us on Instagram and Facebook by tagging @doversaddlery!

We horse owners spend a hefty sum on fly repellents and insecticides to help our horses cope with flies. Whether you prefer synthetic or all-natural formulas, you can optimize their effectiveness—and your horse’s comfort—with these tips.

Read Product Directions

While this advice seems obvious, a recent product advisor training session revealed that many people over-apply fly sprays. Check the application rate recommended by your fly spray’s manufacturer; some formulas are designed to protect for multiple days and can be applied less frequently.

Check for Skin Sensitivity

We recommend testing any new fly spray on a small area of your horse prior to a full application. Doing so allows you to check for an allergic reaction. If skin reacts, that small test patch is easier to treat.

Brush Away Grime

Brush or clean your horse before applying a fly spray. Not only will sweat, urine and manure attract flies to your horse, it will prevent your formula from creating a proper coating and providing best results.

Rotate Fly Repellents

If your favorite fly spray seems to stop working, give it a break and introduce another type for a while. Flies can become accustomed to the scent of a spray, making it less effective. We recommend bathing your horse between applications of different fly sprays to prevent reaction between active ingredients.

Take a Multipronged Approach
While these tips will enhance the performance of your chosen fly formulas, your horse can also benefit from barriers created by a fly mask, fly sheet and fly boots. Fly traps hung outside your horse’s living environment will help reduce the adult fly population. Similarly, removing piles of rotting leaves or decaying manure will reduce fly breeding grounds. Add some birdhouses and bat houses to lure in these natural insect predators, and you will create a multipronged approach to fly control!

Do you and your horse have a favorite fly spray? Share your photos with us on Instagram and Facebook by tagging @doversaddlery!

February, with Valentine’s Day in the middle, always makes us think of ways we riders love our horses and our equestrian lifestyle. This month is especially fun as we at Dover Saddlery continue to welcome more brands to our product lineup! We love them—and think you will, too!

Win the Style Game in Fair Play^®

Fair Play is a rapidly growing equestrian brand that has been winning the hearts of riders worldwide since 2007. Fresh, unique and modern clothing designs for professional and amateur riders are created from high-quality performance fabrics with an emphasis on exquisite finishing details. Fair Play competition attire is proudly made in Poland and always delivers head-turning style.

Tip: Looking for riding apparel with ultra-feminine flair? Fair Play shirts, breeches and show coats are sure to please. Beautifully appointed performance styles boast features such as fine lace or mesh insets, petite crystal design accents and flattering, contoured shaping.

Tap into the Beat of Fashion in Dancing Equestrian

Launched in 2021, Dancing Equestrian is a fashion-forward riders’ brand with innovation and style as its mission. The clothing collection is tailored to the modern equestrian lifestyle with functional athleisure pieces that make riders look and feel amazing wherever they go.

Tip: Looking for a twist on the classic quarter-zip top? A riding shirt by Dancing Equestrian comes in ultrasoft, stretchy performance fabric in lively prints and trendy color palettes.

Feel Ultimate Athletic Freedom in TKEQ

Dedicated to athletic riders, TKEQ is a seamless story. Soft, high-stretch fabrics in smooth, chafe-free designs promote total comfort and mobility. Seam-free designs are kind to your skin, layer wonderfully and keep you moving freely.

Tip: Looking for comfortable, versatile essentials for riding and cross training? Tops from TKEQ hug your contours in a body-conscious fit that won’t get in the way of your movements. And the array of beautiful solid colors makes choosing just one shirt difficult!

We invite you to check out these new brands and more coming this season! We know you’ll enjoy them as much as we do.

Do you already have a favorite style from one of our new brands? Share your photos with us on Instagram and Facebook by tagging @doversaddlery!

This winter, you may be looking for easy, affordable options for keeping your horse cozy and muscles warm. As riders know, dressing in layers makes regulating comfort a snap as temperatures fluctuate during the day—or during a ride. Layering is a great approach for horses, too!

Layering is practical, budget-friendly and space-saving; it requires only a few well-chosen pieces of hardworking horse clothing to keep your horse comfortable. While ready-made blanket bundles and blanket liner systems are available, you can build your own system using pieces that fulfill multiple functions and meet your horse’s specific needs best.

Horse Clothing Base Layers

Start with a breathable base layer your horse can wear when stabled. Its degree of warmth should be suited to the interior temperature of your barn. Here are some of our favorite base layers for horses:

• Chill Chaser: A versatile, tightly woven waffle-like layer, the Chill Chaser serves as an anti-sweat sheet, cooler, show sheet and blanket liner all in one attractive design.
• Fitted fleece sheet/cooler: As long as the piece secures at the front and has belly surcingles and a tail strap, this cozy, moisture-wicking layer is perfect as a base when it’s not being used to dry your horse.
• Back on Track^® Mesh Sheet: This therapeutic sheet creates a soothing infrared thermal effect to keep a horse’s muscles loose, aid recovery and become less inflamed. And it offers a secure fit.
• Horseware^® Ireland Amigo^® Insulator: This barrier against cold has a ripstop outer, a layer of fill and a shine-enhancing lining.
• Any lightweight or medium-weight quilted stable blanket: This type of blanket tends to fit snugly to a horse’s contours, secures appropriately and has a smooth outer that layers well under a turnout blanket or sheet.

Outer Layers

Time for turnout? Any turnout, from a waterproof sheet to a heavyweight blanket, can go right over your horse’s base layer as protection from the elements. The weight of the turnout is a perfect way to adjust the warmth level to match current weather conditions. Here are some of our favorite turnout layers for horses:

• Turnout sheet: This uninsulated, weatherproof layer deflects wetness and mud without adding much warmth. Depending on your climate, you may use it most of the year, even when a base layer isn’t needed.
• Medium-weight turnout blanket: This weatherproof blanket will have 200 to 250 grams of insulation to boost warmth provided by the base layer.
• Neck cover: Suitable for attachment to your specific brand and type of turnout, a neck cover extends weatherproof coverage and holds in body heat around your horse’s neck. Even an uninsulated neck cover will hold in some body heat.

We’d love to hear about your solutions for layering your horse’s clothing any time of year and in any geographic location. Please share your ideas with us on Instagram and Facebook by tagging @doversaddlery!

It’s December, time for extra merriment and fun! Our thoughts have turned to ways we can spruce up our riding areas to keep our horses’ environments attractive, engaging and stimulating. As this gift-giving season, too, who knows? Some of these ideas might make perfect presents for your favorite rider.

By incorporating thoughtful decorations, practical obstacles and appealing elements, you can transform any riding arena or area into a captivating space that promotes learning, mind and body conditioning, concentration and enjoyment.

1. Add dressage cones. No matter your riding discipline, dressage letters are a simple way to expand on or create training exercises. While you guide your horse through patterns, figures and transitions based on letter locations, you can hone your aids and improve your horse’s suppleness. Dressage letter towers can hold flowers or plants—a great opportunity to add seasonal color year-round. Choose non-toxic plants or plastic varieties for horse safety and weather resistance.
   
2. Install attractive and functional obstacles. Whether you add ground poles, Rail Razors, cavaletti, Jump Blocks or fences, introducing obstacles to your riding arena enhances visual appeal and offers mental and physical stimulation for your horse.
   
   
3. Turn on some music. Install speakers around the arena to play calming music or natural sounds, which can help relax and focus both you and your horse. Prefer a lively experience? Upbeat music—as long as it isn’t too loud—just may inspire your horse’s cadence.
   
   
4. Enhance the surroundings naturally. Consider planting (non-toxic) flowers or ornamental grasses around the perimeter of your outdoor ring. These natural elements can add vibrancy and tranquility to your arena space.
   
   
5. Incorporate wall décor. Consider hanging equestrian-themed photographs, banners or flags. The entrance to your arena is a perfect spot for a customized sign with a welcome message or a stable name. Such decorative touches create a sense of pride and attachment to the space.

While you create an equine oasis for you and your horse to enjoy, remember to keep an eye on safety aspects. Allow plenty of space to move around obstacles and be sure to introduce your horse to new things with care.

Shop our wide selection of jumps and arena equipment here.

Is your arena #goals worthy? Share your photos with us on Instagram and Facebook by tagging @doversaddlery!