Horse Floats

What Makes a Good Horse Float?

A good horse float should be durable, safe, and comfortable for both the horse and the driver. Key features to look for include:

• Robust Construction: It should be built with high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of travel and provide stability. Aluminium and steel are common choices for their strength and durability.
• Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial to ensure the comfort and health of the horses during transport. Adequate air flow helps to keep the interior cool and reduces stress on the animals.
• Suspension System: A good suspension system minimizes the bumps and vibrations during travel, providing a smoother ride for the horses. Look for floats with adjustable suspensions for optimal comfort.
• Safety Features: Essential safety features include interior padding, non-slip flooring, secure latching systems, and dividers that prevent horses from injuring themselves.
• Ease of Loading: Features such as wide ramp doors, low entry angles, and ample space inside the float can make loading and unloading your horses much easier and safer.

How Do I Choose a Horse Float?

Choosing the right horse float involves several steps:

• Determine Your Needs: Consider how many horses you need to transport, the type of journeys you will undertake, and any specific features you require, such as tack storage or living quarters.
• Set a Budget: Horse floats can vary significantly in price. Setting a budget helps narrow down your options to what's financially feasible.
• Research Options: Look at different models and brands, comparing their features, prices, and reviews. Attending expos and talking to other horse owners can also provide valuable insights.
• Inspect Floats: If possible, inspect floats in person. Check the construction quality, the ease of use of the doors and ramps, and the overall condition if buying used.
• Consider After-Sales Service: Check the warranty and what after-sales services the manufacturer offers. Good customer support can be crucial if you encounter issues with your float.

Do I Need a 4x4 to Tow a Horse Float?

While a 4x4 is not strictly necessary to tow a horse float, it can provide significant advantages, especially if you plan to drive on rough or slippery roads where additional traction and power are beneficial. A 4x4 vehicle can handle heavier loads and is better suited for uneven terrain, making it a safer and more reliable option for towing horse floats in challenging conditions.

What Size Engine Do I Need to Pull a Horse Float?

The size of the engine required to pull a horse float depends on the weight of the float and the number of horses you are transporting. As a general guideline:

• Light Use: For occasional use with a single horse, a mid-size SUV or pickup with a V6 engine might be sufficient.
• Regular Use: For regular or commercial use, especially with multiple horses, a full-size SUV or a truck with a V8 engine is recommended to ensure adequate towing capacity and to prevent strain on the vehicle.
• Heavy Loads: For very heavy loads or if the float has additional features like living quarters, a more powerful diesel engine in a heavy-duty truck may be necessary to ensure safe and efficient towing.

When considering engine size, it's also important to check the vehicle's maximum towing capacity and ensure it exceeds the total weight of the fully loaded horse float. Always refer to the manufacturer’s towing guidelines to match the vehicle with the appropriate float size.