What Are Cotton Saddle Blankets Made of?

Saddle blankets absorb moisture and help prevent the saddle from rubbing your horse. Selecting the right blanket depends on factors such as type of saddle, weather and riding conditions. Blanket variables include materials, size, thickness and shape.

  1. History

    • According to the Native Museum of the American Indian, in the United States, until after 1840, saddle blanket materials included buffalo, wolf, cougar and other animal hides. Saddle blankets from other materials, such as cotton, and as a form of decoration developed later.

    Material

    • Common material for saddle blankets today include sheepskin, foam pads, synthetic materials, cotton, cotton blended with other fibers and wool. Joanna Robson, D.V.M., of Inspiritus Equine, in Napa, California, recommends natural material such as cotton or sheepskin.

    Cotton

    • According to the Federal Trade Commission, federal regulations do not require manufacturers to label saddle blankets; however, regulations require accurate labeling. When fiber content appears on a label, it must state all fibers included. Purchase saddle blankets with labels to determine if the material contains only cotton or cotton with other materials such as wool or synthetic fibers. Blankets advertised as pure cotton, even if the blanket does not have a label, must contain the material stated in the advertisement.