WeatherBeeta ComFiTec:
Blanket Selection & Size Guide

ComFiTec is a horse turnout blanket technology designed and utilized by WeatherBeeta across their full range of equine blankets. ComFiTec technology is capable of protecting horses from exposure to cold, rain, wind, and snow during turnout. There are four lines of ComFiTec, with varying features suitable for a wide range of equine personalities and behaviors—whether you are looking to outfit the grateful pasture pal who eagerly awaits his rug, or the most intolerant blanket destroyer!

Not sure which one to choose? In this article, we will break down the main differences between the ComFiTec lines, which horses are best suited for each line, and the technology that makes "ComFiTec" such a great choice. We will also discuss how to measure and fit a Weatherbeeta blanket. To round it off, we will address how to properly care for a blanket so you and your horse can enjoy ComFiTec for years to come!

ComFiTec Blanket Comparison

WeatherBeeta has four ComFiTec lines: ComFiTec, Plus (or ComFiTec+), Premier, and Ultra. Each of the turnout blanket lines varies in denier count, outer layer material, and other comfort features. Use the guide below to decide which ComFiTec line is the most appropriate for you and your horse!

ComFiTec offers quality materials at a lower price point for budget-friendly value. The ComFiTec line includes four blanket models: Essential Plus, Essential, Prelim, and Classic. All the models have similar features, differing mainly in denier count. The Classic has a 600 denier count and is more appropriate for horses who are kind to their blankets. Meanwhile, the Essential Plus, Essential, and Prelim feature a 1200 denier count and are better for horses who like to play rough and need a strong blanket. All are excellent options and really depend upon your horse's personality, or the personalities of the horses that surround your horse!

ComFiTec Plus, also known as ComFiTec+, is a step up from the Essential and Classic; featuring a stronger outer layer and comfortable styling amenities. The Dynamic is designed with a variety of neck styles, allowing horse owners to pick the amount of coverage their horse needs. This line is a great choice for horses who are relatively kind to their clothes and whose owners are looking to provide more comfort for their equines during the rainy months.

The ComFiTec Premier line is the perfect choice for horses who spend a lot of time in turnout, as it allows horses to buck, run, and play with ease! The full-embrace wrap front with concealed Ezi-Buckle closure prevents them from catching on external matter in the field, while deterring those horses who like to bite and play with the front of their blanket. Have a horse who likes to escape from its blanket? The Premier line is a good option for the Houdini horse!

The ComFiTec Ultra was designed for the ultimate blanket wrecker. Super tough ballistic nylon is Weatherbeeta's strongest outer layer material, while the addition of Teflon coating ensures water and horse teeth cannot break through. This line is compatible with WeatherBeeta's liner system, so you can add more weight when the temperature drops.

A ComFiTec for Every Type of Horse

The Blanket-Friendly Horse

Are you lucky enough to have a horse that prefers to remain warm, dry, and protected? A horse that does not tear holes or try to escape from their blanket allows you to focus on the features that will make them comfortable. We recommend all of the ComFiTec ranges, which all offer unbeatable comfort and fit at a great price.

The Blanket-Wrecker

Do you always seem to find yourself repairing or replacing your horse's blanket? All of the WeatherBeeta ComFiTec lines were developed for horses that love to play rough; however, for the ultimate wrecker, the ComFiTec Ultra line is the best choice with its super-strong denier outer and Teflon coating.

The Blanket-Houdini

Do you have a horse that takes blanketing as a challenge? Do you regularly find your blanket caked in mud in the far corner of the pasture? WeatherBeeta designed the ComFiTec Premier and ComFiTec Ultra ranges specifically for these crafty horses. With features like the full-embrace wraps with concealed Ezi-Buckle closures, these blankets can keep your horse snug and protected.

WeatherBeeta Blanketing Guide

This helpful blanket guide considers your horse's tolerance level when wearing rugs, matching it to features and materials in the ComFiTec line that may be most suitable for the horse's behavior habits.

WeatherBeeta Hugology

WeatherBeeta uses the term "hugology" to refer to the combination of blanket layers seen throughout the entire range of ComFiTec blankets. Depending on the ComFiTec line, these layers may differ.

Teflon/Repel Shell

The outer fabric of all turnout blankets either has a repel shell or Teflon coating. This layer allows water to bead and runoff, which prevents saturation. Teflon also ensures that dirt and debris can easily be brushed off.

Outer Denier Fabric

All ComFiTec turnouts are made from durable fabrics with weaves to help prevent and limit tears. Each line is made with a different denier weave and strength:

• Ultra: 1680 denier ballistic nylon
• Premier & Plus: 1200 denier triple weave (zig-zag weave)
• ComFiTec: 1200 or 600 deniers ripstop weave (cross-hatch weave)

Waterproof & Breathable Coating

WeatherBeeta turnout blankets are 100% waterproof. The outer fabric is bonded with a breathable waterproof membrane that provides a barrier to keep the elements out. The membrane stops water from entering the blanket, but allows the horse's natural sweat and excess moisture to escape and evaporate, keeping the horse cool, dry, and comfortable.

Insulating

WeatherBeeta blankets come in a variety of weight options to suit the climate and horse's needs. All ComFiTec lines use an insulating polyfill for warmth, with the exception of the Ultra line, which features a luxurious lofty polyfill for ultimate warmth.

Lining

Polyester lining is used in all ComFiTec turnout blankets and is considered a very strong and durable material. The 210T Oxford polyester lining provides a smooth feel against the horse's skin and helps maintain a polished, shiny coat all winter long.

WeatherBeeta Rug Size Guide

Take your ComFiTec blanket or sheet selection a step further to ensure you choose just the right size to fit your horse comfortably.

1. Measure body length from the center of the chest to the end of the rump.
2. Measure the back seam from the wither to the top of the tail.
3. Use those two measurements and refer to the WeatherBeeta Blanket Size Chart below to determine your horse's correct size.

WeatherBeeta turnouts lean toward a generous fit for ample freedom of movement, so if your horse is between sizes or is expected to trim down in weight, you might opt for the smaller of the two size considerations.

How to Fit a WeatherBeeta Blanket

A well-fitting blanket is essential in keeping your horse comfortable and protected. To achieve the perfect fit, be certain to check each of the following areas:

• Chest Straps: The blanket should fit well on the withers and shoulders to allow the horse to move freely. Once the buckles are adjusted, you should be able to slide a hand down the neck of the blanket and not feel tension.
• Blanket Length: Ensuring the blanket is the correct length is essential, as a blanket that is too short will not offer enough coverage. One that is too long might interfere with the horse's movement. If the seam between the tail flap and the blanket sits well above the tail head, the blanket is too small. If it sits below the top of the tail, the blanket is too big.
• Belly Cross Surcingles: The straps of the belly surcingles should cross in the center of the horse's belly and be well forward of the horse's stifle. There should also be a hand width between the straps and the horse's body.
• Leg Straps: Leg straps should be linked to prevent rubbing and act with each other to pull the blanket into place. To apply the leg straps correctly, take the left leg strap, pass it between the hind legs, and fasten it to the left-hand side. Then, take the right leg strap, pass it through the loop made by the left strap, and fasten to the right-hand side. Both leg straps should be adjusted evenly and allow the width of one hand between the strap and the horse's thigh.

How to Care for a WeatherBeeta Blanket

Thoroughly cleaning a WeatherBeeta blanket gets it ready for next season and extends the life of the blanket. Follow the steps below to clean your blanket from home:

1. Remove any excess dirt, debris, or horsehair from the blanket.
2. You can either wash the blanket by hand or use a washing machine. However, if you wash by hand, use cool water and do not use a power washer, as it may damage the blanket's waterproof coating.
3. If using a washing machine, place the blanket in a mesh laundry wash bag to protect the inside of your washer from the blanket's straps. Machine wash on a cool, gentle cycle with a reputable blanket wash, ensuring that you follow the manufacturer's instructions. Do not use any detergents or fabric conditioners, as they may damage the blanket's waterproof coating.
4. For best results, re-proof your blanket for next season with a proven blanket-proof solution. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions.
5. Let the blanket naturally air dry.

Closing Thoughts

Started over forty years ago, WeatherBeeta strived to create products of high quality, comfort, and innovation. A true pioneer in the equine industry, they were the first to introduce synthetic material into blankets for horses and dogs.

Each WeatherBeeta blanket is made with the horse in mind so it can stand up to their demanding lifestyle. Whether you have a blanket-friendly horse, a blanket-Houdini, or a blanket-wrecker, there is a WeatherBeeta option out there for every equine!