Halter Sizing From Quillin Leather
Horse Halter Size Chart
· @Ralph Quillin
Horse Halter Size Chart: Finding the Right Fit
A halter that fits is safer and more comfortable, and it lasts longer. We've been fitting halters to thoroughbreds here in Paris, Kentucky since 1982, and we size every halter the same way: by the horse in front of you, not by its age alone.
Every Quillin halter carries its size stamped into the crown. If you already own one that fits, check the stamp and order that size again.
Our halter sizes
Stamp | Size | Typically fits |
|---|---|---|
N | Newborn | First days and weeks |
F | Foal | Young foals |
X | Large foal | Bigger or older foals |
W | Weanling | Weanlings |
L | Large weanling | Bigger weanlings |
#1 | Small yearling | Smaller yearlings |
#2 | Yearling | Most yearlings |
#3 | Large yearling / Quarter Horse | Large yearlings and many Quarter Horses |
#4 | Mare | Average mares and geldings |
#5 | Large mare | Larger mares and horses |
Track halters come in S (small), R (regular), and L (large).
Foals grow fast. A foal can move through two or three sizes in its first year, so plan to check the fit every few weeks.
How to measure your horse
You need a soft tape measure or a piece of string and a ruler. Have someone hold the horse.
- Noseband. Wrap the tape around the nose about two fingers' width below the cheekbone. Leave room for two fingers under the tape.
- Crown and cheeks. Run the tape from the corner of the mouth, up the side of the face, behind the ears, and down to the same point on the other side.
- Throat. Measure from behind the jaw, under the throat, to the same point on the other side.
- Compare. Match your numbers to our chart. If you're between sizes, call us before you order.
How to check the fit
- Two fingers. You should slide two fingers flat under the noseband and under the crown.
- Noseband height. It should sit about two fingers below the cheekbone. Too low, and it can press on the soft part of the nose. Too high, and it rubs the cheekbone.
- Throatlatch. It should be snug enough that the halter can't slip forward over the ears, with room for a fist.
- Buckle holes. A good fit falls near the middle holes, so you have room to adjust.
Between sizes or not sure?
Call us at 859-987-0215. We'll ask a few questions about your horse and tell you which size to order. Every halter we make is custom, and halters with engraved nameplates can't be returned, so it pays to get the size right the first time.
Frequently asked questions
What size halter does a yearling need? Most yearlings wear our #2. Smaller yearlings take a #1, and big yearlings a #3. Measure to be sure.
What size halter for a newborn foal? Start with our Newborn (N). Many foals move to Foal (F) within a few weeks. Some folks like our Figure 8 calf halter for its snug fit and light yet robust construction.
Do you make custom sizes? No - because we offer more size choices than any other shop - you should be able to find the right size from our stock offerings.
How do I know what size my current halter is? If it's a Quillin, look for the size stamp on the crown tip. If not, measure it flat and call us with the numbers.
How long does a Quillin halter take? Allow about three weeks from order to shipping. We generally can fulfill your order a little quicker, but seasonal demands and our Engraving Queue should be considered whrn ordering.
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