Monday Morning Feed From SmartPak: Rockin’ SP Classic Blanket Review

SmartPak created the Rockin’ SP line of blankets specifically for Quarter horse and stock breed body types. HN’s resident Quarter horse tries one on for size.

Initially, I admit that I didn’t really think Red the Cow Pony required a sheet cut specifically for his breed. I mean, sure, I can understand the need for a stock-breed-specific cut of sheets and blankets: after all, jackets and sweatshirts that fit a tall and slender individual are not going to fit a broad-shouldered guy who lifts weights on the reg.

And then I took a good hard look at the hand-me-down sheet that Red was actually wearing, a direct conflict between frugality and horsemanship:

“Thanks for the dress, Mom.”

Okay, it wasn’t the worst fit in the world, but it did kind of fit him like a dress. Even with the straps tightened appropriately, I felt like a good breeze would send a draft right up the back or bottom of this thing. While Red has a great winter coat on his own and really only requires a waterproof layer to keep out the rain and snow, I didn’t feel like it was fair any longer to sacrifice a good-fitting sheet for making the most of some freebie sheets that didn’t really fit well.

Fortunately, SmartPak had the perfect solution: the Rockin’ SP line of blankets and sheets are cut specifically for Quarter horses with a shorter drop, but generously-sized shoulders for the stock horse’s sturdy frame. (And my frugality still scored a point by catching one on sale: the Classic waterproof sheet.)

Red is ready for his debut as a SmartPak model.

At last! A sheet that didn’t hang down nearly to Red’s knees, and also fit his stocky Quarter horse frame well without looking like a giant bag. The Rockin’ SP Classic has a bunch of other features that demonstrate SmartPak’s attention to detail from an equestrian’s perspective:

Tail flap to keep drafts from going up the bum

Fleece at the withers to prevent rubs, and a cutback design (probably more effective for higher-withered horses, but not a problem for Red)

Front buckles and a generous shoulder gusset for maximum mobility

The sheet has a 600-denier outer shell, which isn’t the toughest of what SmartPak offers but is still sturdy enough to stand up to daily wear as well as Red’s three rambunctious pasture-mates — over a month later, the blanket is a bit dirty but otherwise in excellent shape with no holes or tears. This sheet breathes well; I don’t ever find Red damp on the inside from condensation as I might in less breathable blankets.

Before ordering a sheet, I read all of the reviews on SmartPak’s website: Red measures in at 72″, but a majority of comments stated the sheet seemed to run small, so I ordered a 74″. I actually believe that I could have gone with the 72″, as this sheet could be just a tad shorter over the back and a little higher up on Red’s shoulders. Even with a slightly-imperfect fit, however, I’m impressed with this sheet’s durability, overall look and of course its primary purpose: to keep my horse cozy and dry all winter long.

Check out the Rockin’ SP line of blankets and sheets for the perfect fit for your stock horse!

Go SmartPak, and Go Riding!