If you've ever been curious about the majestic world of horses or even considered owning one, you may have come across the term "hands" when measuring their height. Understanding how to measure a horse in hands is essential, as it allows you to choose the right size of horse for your specific needs. In this comprehensive guide, we will break down the methods of measuring a horse in hands, helping you become a more informed and confident horse owner.
How To Measure Horse In Hands Table of Contents
What is a Hand?
A hand is a traditional unit of measurement used for determining the height of horses. First used in ancient Egypt and later adopted by the Greeks and Romans, it has been a valued measurement system for centuries.
One hand is equal to four inches or approximately 10.16 centimeters. In the horse world, height is calculated from the ground up to the highest point of a horse's withers. The withers are the horse's bony ridge located between its shoulder blades, making it a stable reference point for measuring height.
Why Measure Horses in Hands?
Measuring horses in hands is an industry standard that helps both seasoned horse owners and beginners alike to:
- Determine and compare the height of various horse breeds
- Select the right size of horse for riding or other activities
- Understand horse-related jargon and communicate effectively with other horse enthusiasts
By using hands as a common measurement, horse aficionados can easily navigate the equestrian world.
Types of Horses and Size Categories
Before getting into the specifics of how to measure a horse, it's essential to understand the various size categories. Horses are typically divided into three categories based on their height:
1. Ponies: Measuring less than 14.2 hands, ponies are smaller and generally more adaptable for children or beginners.
2. Horses: Any equine over 14.2 hands falls within the horse category. They are more suitable for experienced riders and are often used in competitions and various sports.
3. Draft horses: These large, muscular horses are classified as any horse taller than 17 hands. They are commonly used for heavy work, such as pulling carts or plowing fields.
How to Measure a Horse in Hands
To measure a horse in hands, follow these simple steps:
1. Position the horse on a level surface: Ensuring that the horse stands on even ground is vital for obtaining an accurate measurement.
2. Stand square: Make sure that the horse has all four hooves flat on the ground with its legs directly under its body, forming a square stance.
3. Locate the withers: Identify the bony ridge between the horse's shoulder blades.
4. Mark the height: Using a measuring tape, mark the horse's height from the ground to its withers. Alternatively, use a leveling stick, a specialized tool designed for measuring horse heights.
5. Convert to hands: Now that you have the height in inches, divide the number by four to convert it into hands.
If you happen to encounter a measurement with a decimal, it is crucial to convert the decimal into inches. For example, if your horse measures 15.2 hands, the correct calculation should be 15 hands and 2 inches.
How To Measure Horse In Hands Example:
Let's say you have a horse named Bella, and you want to measure her height in hands. First, find a flat surface and have Bella stand square. Next, locate her withers and use a measuring tape to determine her height from the ground to her withers.
For this example, we'll say Bella measures 62 inches. To convert this measurement into hands, divide 62 by 4, which gives you 15.5 hands. Now, take the decimal (.5) and multiply it by 4 to convert it into inches, resulting in 2 inches. Thus, Bella's height is 15 hands and 2 inches (15.2hh).
Congratulations! You now have a thorough understanding of how to measure a horse in hands and are well-equipped to make informed decisions about horse ownership. As you continue to explore the exciting world of horses, we invite you to dive deeper into our other informative articles and guides on How to Own a Horse. If you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with your fellow equestrians or horse enthusiasts to spread the knowledge.
