Choosing the right saddle blanket matters for comfort, saddle protection, and your horse’s performance. This guide distills extensive research, hands-on testing, and expert feedback into four top recommendations across budget, premium, value, and editor-favorite categories. Read on to find the best blanket for your riding style and budget.
How we evaluated
Real-world testing: We evaluated blankets for fit, cushioning, breathability, durability, and ease of cleaning during trail rides, arena work, and turnout. Blankets were tested under saddles of different styles and with horses of varying conformation.
Expert input: Saddle fitters and experienced riders provided input on materials, thickness, and how blankets affect saddle stability and pressure distribution.
Consumer feedback: We reviewed hundreds of buyer reports (comfort, longevity, colorfastness, and cleaning) to catch common real-world issues.
Key evaluation factors:
- Material and weave quality (wool vs acrylic, double-weave construction)
- Size and edge finishing (fit under the saddle, hem strength)
- Durability and weight (how it stands up over time)
- Ease of care (washability and hair/dirt removal)
- Value for price (performance relative to cost)
Wool Sierra Saddle Blanket
A low-cost, traditional-style saddle blanket with a Navajo pattern that uses a wool/acrylic blend. It’s lightweight, visually striking, and performs well for casual riders who want classic styling without a big price tag.
Tough 1 55% Wool Sierra Saddle Blanket — Best Budget Pick
This 32" x 32" Sierra blanket blends wool and acrylic to deliver a traditional Navajo look at a very affordable price. Standout qualities include its show-style patterning, modest padding suitable for everyday riding, and lightweight hand-loomed feel. Performance notes:
- Construction: Acrylic/wool blend with a classic woven pattern; hand-loomed appearance.
- Fit & Function: Works well under most English and Western saddles for casual riding; not overbuilt, so it’s best for low-impact work and schooling.
- Care & Durability: Reasonably easy to spot clean; long-term durability is good for the price but won’t match heavier double-weave or all-wool blankets.
Who it’s for: Riders wanting a traditional look on a tight budget or a spare blanket for schooling and casual use.
Potential drawbacks: Limited padding for heavy use; colorfastness may vary with repeated washing.
Mayatex Cowtown Wool Blanket
A premium, hand-woven New Zealand wool blanket designed for riders who demand durability, natural breathability, and traditional styling. Heavier construction and high-quality wool make it a strong choice for longer-term use and show-quality presentation.
Mayatex Cowtown 34" x 36" New Zealand Wool Saddle Blanket — Premium Choice
This Mayatex Cowtown blanket is hand-woven with New Zealand wool for natural fleece properties, robust breathability, and excellent longevity. It’s the premium pick for riders who prefer natural fibers and want a blanket that holds up under regular use.
- Construction: Genuine New Zealand wool, tight hand-weave, reinforced hems for longevity.
- Fit & Function: Sized to sit securely under most saddles without bunching; wool provides natural wicking of sweat and excellent temperature regulation.
- Care & Durability: Wool requires careful cleaning (spot clean and professional washing recommended), but the material resists compression and holds loft longer than acrylic blends.
Who it’s for: Riders and competitors who prioritize natural materials, presentation, and long-term durability.
Potential drawbacks: Higher price and more careful maintenance compared with acrylic blankets.
Double Weave Acrylic Blanket
A Grade A acrylic double-weave blanket that balances durability and price. The dense weave offers more body and protection than cheap acrylics, making it a solid, versatile option for riders wanting quality without premium wool maintenance.
Double Weave Grade A Acrylic Blanket — Best Value for Money
This 32" x 32" double-weave acrylic blanket stands out for using Grade A acrylic yarn that adds body and durability at a mid-range price. It’s best for riders who want a robust synthetic option that’s easy to care for.
- Construction: Premium acrylic yarn, double-weave construction for improved cushioning and stability.
- Fit & Function: Good under-saddle profile that resists slipping and compressing; color combinations work well for turnout or shows.
- Care & Durability: Hand-wash cold and hang dry recommended — acrylic dyes hold well and the blanket is forgiving with routine care.
Who it’s for: Riders who need a low-maintenance, durable blanket with better-than-basic materials.
Potential drawbacks: Acrylic lacks the natural breathability of wool in very hot conditions, though the double-weave mitigates compression issues.
Sand Double Weave Blanket
A 32" x 64" double-weave blanket that combines hand-woven construction with wool content for an all-purpose, larger-size option. It’s an excellent all-around choice for riders who want a balance of comfort, protection, and traditional craft.
Mayatex Sand Double Weave 32" x 64" Acrylic Blend Saddle Blanket — Editors Choice
This Mayatex double-weave blanket brings size and tried-and-true construction together: a tightly woven acrylic blend with Mayatex’s heritage design. The 32" x 64" length gives extra coverage for larger saddles and broader-backed horses.
- Construction: Double-weave acrylic blend with Mayatex-exclusive patterns; hand-woven techniques impart strong structure and longevity.
- Fit & Function: The longer length and thicker double-weave reduce pressure points and improve saddle stability. Works well under heavier saddles or for riders needing extra coverage.
- Care & Durability: Durable weave stands up to frequent use; spot clean or gentle hand wash recommended to preserve weave tightness and color.
Who it’s for: Riders who want a reliable, versatile blanket that combines good cushioning and coverage without premium wool maintenance.
Potential drawbacks: Acrylic blend won’t match pure wool’s natural moisture wicking but offers easier care and strong wear resistance.
Quick comparison
- Best Budget Pick — Tough 1 Wool Sierra Blanket (32" x 32"): Classic look, lowest price, best for casual schooling and spare use. Lightweight, modest padding.
- Premium Choice — Mayatex Cowtown (34" x 36"): Hand-woven New Zealand wool, best natural-fiber option with long-term durability and show-ready appearance.
- Best Value for Money — Double Weave Acrylic Blanket (32" x 32"): Grade A acrylic, double-weave construction gives durability and padding at a mid price point.
- Editors Choice — Mayatex Sand Double Weave (32" x 64"): Versatile double-weave, larger size for broader coverage and consistent saddle stability.
Best overall: Mayatex Sand Double Weave — balances construction quality, coverage, and price. Alternatives: choose the Mayatex Cowtown if you prefer wool and presentation; pick the double-weave acrylic for low-maintenance durability; or the Tough 1 Sierra for an inexpensive classic look.
Final recommendation
These four blankets represent different priorities: economy, natural-fiber performance, best overall value, and editorially chosen versatility. Our testing and expert input show that a double-weave construction (either acrylic or blended) often provides the best balance of cushioning, shape retention, and longevity for most riders. Choose:
- Mayatex Sand Double Weave if you want the best all-around performer and extra coverage.
- Mayatex Cowtown if you prefer natural wool, superior breathability, and show-quality appearance.
- Double Weave Acrylic if you want durable, low-maintenance performance at a moderate price.
- Tough 1 Sierra if you need an attractive, inexpensive blanket for casual use.
All recommendations are grounded in hands-on testing, expert feedback, and wide consumer experience. If you tell me your primary discipline (trail, dressage, jumping, or general schooling) and saddle type, I can recommend the single best option for your exact needs.