Whenever somebody new calls me wanting to book riding lessons I always ask what their weight is
While most people are happy giving me their height a lot of them seem perplexed by being asked their weight, not realizing that there’s an upper limit to how much a horse can carry
The strongest horse in the world can comfortably carry a 360 lb rider (along with all of the tack) but will struggle with a rider weighing excess of that
No two horses or riders are the same which is why there are no official rules on what is an acceptable weight for a rider
Ask a handful of people what they think the limit should be and chances are most will give you a different number with some saying no more than 10% of the horse’s weight while others will say 20%
If you say that the rider should only be 10% then that means the average woman (weighing 1706 pounds) would be too heavy for a Quarter Horse
Whereas if you take 20% as acceptable then that means the same woman would be able to ride some pony breeds such as the Quarter Pony and that a 486 pound rider would still be able to ride
Some people even insist that a horse can happily carry a rider weighing 25% of their weight, but none of these percentages give a realistic answer to the question
Is there a weight limit for riding a horse?
To some extent the question shouldn’t be how much a horse can carry but instead how much can they carry safely, the addition of the word ‘safely’ can make a big difference to the answer
Of course, a horse CAN carry the weight but research has shown that anything over 20% will cause the horse soreness as well as physical stress
This means that a horse shouldn’t carry more than 20% of their ideal body weight but that includes the saddle and any accessories too which is why many people insist the limit should be lower
With this in mind a safe limit for any rider should be no more than 15% of the horse’s ideal body weight, this means that the horse can comfortably carry the rider, along with the tack, without suffering any undue stress
According to the NIDDK (National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases), the term overweight means a bodyweight that is greater than a normal healthy weight for your particular height
If you take this into account, along with the fact that an average American woman (5 feet 4 inches in height) weighs 1706 pounds and a typical American man (5 feet 9 inches in height) weighs 1979 pounds then a person weighing a little over either of those weights could ride most horses without hurting them
The conclusion we can draw from this is that if somebody is a little bit overweight then they’ll have no trouble riding most horses
The problem arises when they’re around double the weight of the average woman
At this weight (approximately 3412 pounds) they’re bordering on what’s is acceptable
Can you ride a horse if you weight 300 pounds?
While you might think that 300 pounds is too heavy for any horse to carry, especially when you consider this doesn’t include the weight of the tack but there are a few breeds that can carry such a rider
If you take the 15% rule into account then breeds with an ideal weight of 2000 pounds or more would be able to carry this sort of rider
Breeds such as the Percheron, Clydesdale, and Shire Horse would all be ideal for a 300 pound rider
Not only do they have the weight (and the strength) but they have very round backs and long strides so are extremely comfortable to ride
People often think that a horse is capable of carrying any amount of weight but, while horses are amongst the strongest of animals (in terms of the weight they can carry in relation to their size) there is a limit to the weight a single horse is able to safely (and comfortably) carry
While there will always be an individual horse that is the exception to any rule, the breed with the heaviest ideal weight is the Shire Horse
Weighing in at a staggering 2430 pounds the Shire Horse can easily carry a 364 pound rider as well as a saddle and bridle
What horses can carry a heavy rider?
The best breeds for carrying heavy riders are draft horses, they generally have stronger bones and a very muscular frame
That said though not all draft breeds would be capable of carrying a larger rider after all the diminutive Haflinger (which typically stands at 142hh) is classed as a draft horse
Heavy draft breeds (sometimes referred to as heavy horses) such as the Shire Horse, Percheron, Clydesdale, and even the Belgian Draught are perfectly suited to carrying a larger rider
We’ve talked a lot about how heavy is too heavy for a horse to be able to carry but that doesn’t help to answer the question of how much a rider should weigh and if your maths is anything like mine working out the percentage isn’t that easy either
This is why I decided to include the table below, to give you an idea of how much any particular horse can carry
The record for the strongest horse goes to a Shire Horse who, in 1924, was able to pull a breathtaking 58,000 pounds (29 tonnes)
While we don’t know the horse’s name we do know that the Liverpool-bred stallion wore special shoes designed to help horses pull more weight
I’ve included links to the products (which are in no particular order) that I really think are great
I’ve found that if I run a little bit of detangler through my horse’s tails every few days it stops them from getting matted up and makes combing them easy, even if they’re coated in mud
TAKEKIT Pro clippers – Over the years I’ve tried a lot of different clippers and while some were obviously better than others I found these to be by far the best
They are heavier than a lot of other clippers but for me, that’s a good thing, it makes them feel more sturdy and hardwearing
On top of that they have a range of speeds so are just as good for clipping your horse’s back as they are his face
I also like the fact that they come in a handy carry case but that’s not for everybody
The company that makes them is super good and incredibly helpful too, a real bonus these days
The only thing I wasn’t keen on was the fact that it doesn’t come with any oil, but that’s not a major problem as it’s not difficult to buy lubricant
Horse safe mirror – This is a strange one that many people are surprised about but I like to put horse safe mirrors in the trailers as well as in the quarantine stalls
Being herd animals horses can get extremely stressed when they feel that they’re on their own but with these stick-on mirrors, they believe that at least one other horse is with them
Rectal thermometer – I know this isn’t glamourous at all but it’s vital for your horse’s well-being to be able to check their temperature and a rectal thermometer is the easiest way of doing this which is why I’ve added it to the list
I’ve also put together a few shopping lists of essential items that I’ve found helpful over the years
Research and studies have confirmed that an average-sized adult horse can carry about 20% of its current body weight
That means if your horse is 1,000 pounds, it can carry 200 pounds
Knowing the carrying capacity of horses is a question that has been asked for centuries
People have always wondered how much weight a horse could transport and, more importantly, how much a horse could safely carry
In this article, we will explore the different aspects of horse carrying capacity to better understand just how much weight a horse can safely transport
Common Activities Where Horses Carry Weight
Common Activities Where Horses Carry Weight
There are many activities where horses are commonly asked to carry weight
Packing is a common activity in many different settings, such as wilderness camping, hunting, and even long-distance riding
Horse-drawn carriages: For leisurely rides and tours, as well as for transportation purposes, horse-drawn carriages are a popular way to get around in many tourist destinations
The weight of the carriage, plus the weight of the passengers, must be factored in when determining how much weight a horse can safely carry
This is a very strenuous task for horses and should only be done with horses in good physical condition
The jockeys that ride the horses are very lightweight, but the horses still carry the weight of the saddle and equipment
There are many other activities where horses may be asked to carry weight, but these are some of the more common ones
All of these activities require a horse to carry weight on its back, which can put a lot of strain on its body
Therefore, it is important to understand the factors that affect how much weight a horse can carry before asking them to do so
It depends on various factors, such as the horse’s size, age, breed, and health
According to a study by Craven College, the average-sized horse can carry up to 20% of its current body weight
This means that a horse can carry almost any average-sized person without struggle
Consider the individual horse when determining the amount of weight it can carry
If you’re overweight or obese, you’ll need a big, strong, and healthy horse that’s fit enough to carry your weight
You also need to incorporate some equipment to lighten the load on the horse’s back
This includes using a saddle that’s fitted well to add support
You also need good balance despite your weight, which helps the horse carry you more easily
You can determine the answer to this question by taking into account the different factors that have been mentioned
This means that if you have a 1,000-pound horse, it can carry 200 pounds on its back without any problems
At the same time, a 500-pound horse can carry 100 pounds, and so on
Many factors affect how much weight a horse can carry, so it’s always best to consult a veterinarian before asking your horse to carry any weight
The average weight limit that a horse can safely carry is 20% of its current body weight
However, the same study by Craven College also stated that the ideal weight limit of horses is determined based on the following factors:
Health and weight of the horse: A horse’s carrying capacity is significantly reduced if they’re unhealthy or overweight
Age of the horse: Older horses generally have a lower weight limit than younger ones
Breed of the horse: Some breeds of horses are stronger than others and can, therefore, carry more weight
Type of saddle used: The type of saddle also affects how much weight a horse can carry
The height of the rider: The height of the rider in relation to the size of the horse or pony they’re going to ride also makes a difference
A taller rider on a smaller horse will require the horse to carry more weight than a shorter rider on a bigger horse
The workload of the horse: If a horse is carrying a light workload, it can carry more weight than if they’re carrying a heavy workload
Rider ability: An experienced rider can control their horse better than a novice rider, meaning the horse won’t have to work as hard to carry them
Considering all these factors, the ideal weight limit for a horse can be determined
However, it is important to note that this is only an ideal weight limit
There may be times when a horse is asked to carry more weight than what is considered ideal, but this should only be done in special circumstances and with the approval of a veterinarian
The same 20% body weight rule applies to all types of horses—even miniature horses
Since the average weight of a mini horse is 200 pounds, this indicates that the average weight this type of horse can carry is 40 pounds
This also means that mini horses are not ideal to be ridden by adults, as the average adult weighs more than 200 pounds
So if you’re an adult and want to ride a horse, it’s best to choose a horse that’s big enough to accommodate your weight
The Kentucky Derby is a horse race that’s open to three-year-old Thoroughbred horses
While there aren’t any weight specifications for Kentucky Derby horses, they do have to carry a minimum weight of 126 pounds
This weight limit is in place because the Kentucky Derby is a very long race—it’s 125 miles long, to be exact
If the horses didn’t have to carry a minimum weight, they would likely be too tired to finish the race
Quarter horses are a type of horse that’s known for their short sprinting ability
They’re often used in rodeos and racing events that require a lot of speed
While there isn’t an official weight limit for quarter horses, it’s generally agreed upon that the standard-sized quarter horse is suited for riders weighing between 100 to 180 pounds
This weight range is due to the fact that quarter horses are compact and muscular, which makes them better suited for carrying smaller riders
While ponies can carry more weight than mini horses, they still have a weight limit that shouldn’t be exceeded
Ponies follow the same 20% weight rule as other types of horses
This weight range allows ponies to carry one or two small children simultaneously without overloading
It’s important to note that ponies can become easily agitated if carrying too much weight, so it’s always best to err on the side of caution when deciding how many riders to put on a pony
Now that you know how much weight horses can carry, you can better decide which type of horse is right for you
Of course, you’ll need to choose a strong horse to carry your weight if you’re a heavier rider
If you’re unsure about how much your horse can carry, simply follow the 20% body weight rule to be on the safe side
They’ll be able to help you determine the ideal weight limit for your horse based on its size, breed, and overall health
While at a rodeo, a man dressed for riding passed by us, and my grandson remarked, “He’s too big to ride” This led to a lively discussion about the maximum weight that horses can safely carry
Some believed that the limit was 250 pounds, while others claimed that horses could handle up to 500 pounds without issue
The general rule of thumb is that horses can safely carry up to 20% of their body weight
The general rule of thumb is that horses can safely carry up to 20% of their body weight
Therefore, a horse weighing 2,000 pounds, such as a large draft horse, could theoretically carry a person weighing up to 400 pounds
This is often cited as the maximum weight a horse can carry based on the 20% rule
Every horse has its strengths and limitations, and as a horse owner, it is your job to consider both
However, 20% of body weight is a safe, research-based estimate
Horses are strong animals that are capable of carrying a significant amount of weight, but there is still a limit to how much they can safely carry
Factors such as the horse’s size, age, and fitness level will all play a role in determining how much weight it can carry
Generally, a horse can safely carry about 20% of its body weight
So, for example, a 1000-pound horse could carry up to 200 pounds safely
Of course, this is just a general guideline, and horses can often carry more or less weight depending on their individual circumstances
For example, the two-year-old Thoroughbred pictured above is not developed enough to carry a rider over 135 lbs, even though 20% of its weight may be higher
Horses are strong, spirited animals and are well-suited to support an average rider’s weight
But when you add in the weight of horse-riding gear and a huge person, the overall load may exceed the safe weight a horse can carry
The horses underwent an exercise test 4 times, carrying 15%, 20%, 25%, and 30% of their body weight in each trial
During the trial, they used several parameters to measure the effects of increased weights on a horse’s health
Researchers found that when horses carried 25% of their body weight, their heart rates were significantly higher, and they experienced more significant muscle soreness and tightness
The research concluded that 20% of a horse’s body weight is a safe carrying weight for most
However, the study also found a negative correlation between a horse’s conformation and its weight-bearing capacity
Factors that affect how much weight a horse can safely carry
There is no definitive answer to the question of how much weight a horse can carry
The amount of weight that a horse can safely carry varies depending on a number of factors, including the breed of the horse, its age, and the condition of its hooves
1 Horse Conformation and Weight-Carrying Ability
Furthermore, a horse’s conformation will determine how much weight it can comfortably carry
For instance, in the earlier mentioned study, researchers found that horses with broad loins and thick cannon bone circumference experienced less muscle soreness and tightness when carrying heavier loads
The negative correlation between a horse’s conformation and carrying ability means that sturdy, well-balanced horses with short backs and thick cannon bones can carry more weight than horses with long legs and weak backs
Though 20% is a good starting point for determining any horse’s carrying ability, you have a little more leverage in this regard with stockier and sturdier horses
Another study on Icelandic horses (a short, stock horse breed) found that they can safely carry 227% of their body weight on average
While all horses are capable of carrying weight, some breeds are better suited to the task than others
Draft horse breeds such as the Clydesdale and the Shire are known for their strength and stamina and can easily carry a heavy rider
Other breeds, such as the Arabian and the Mustang, are smaller and more agile, making them better suited for tasks that require quick movements or tight turns
Still, other breeds, such as Thoroughbreds, are typically bred for racing and are not as well suited to carrying heavy riders
When choosing a horse for a particular task, it is important to consider the horse’s breed and weight-carrying ability
By matching the horse to the task at hand, you can ensure that both horse and rider will be safe and comfortable
If possible, find out what type of work was intended for each individual animal when they were bred; this will help determine their strength relative to other horses within their own category (eg, racehorses shouldn’t be expected to haul anything other than a jockey)
A horse’s carrying capacity can differ according to its breed
Just like Icelandic horses can carry 227% of their body weight, the Paso Fino horse can safely carry up to 25% of its body weight; both breeds are gaited
I wonder if their being gaited is a factor in their ability to carry more weight than the average horse
Interestingly, mules are stronger than most horses and can easily carry 25% of their body weight
Not only does this help to keep them healthy, but it also affects their weight-carrying ability
For example, a horse that is out of shape is likely to tire quickly and may have difficulty carrying a rider
In contrast, a horse that is in peak condition will be able to perform at a higher level for longer periods of time
By taking these steps, horse owners can help their animals stay healthy and perform at their best
A rider’s experience and fitness level also affect how much weight a horse can carry
If the rider is experienced, they know how to properly sit on a horse to make it easier to travel
If a horse is tired after exercise, an untrained rider can easily throw it off balance as they struggle to get in the correct saddle position
A trained rider knows how to manage their body weight so the horse can easily keep moving
The terrain on which the horse will be working should also be considered; horses bred for flatland areas may not be suitable for mountainous terrains
Activities like running or racing also require more energy from a horse
When a horse is physically stressed because of rugged terrain or activity, extra weight increases its burden
Hoof care is also important when it comes to how much weight a horse can carry
If a horse’s hooves are not trimmed and balanced properly, they will not distribute weight properly across their feet which can lead to lameness or other health issues down the road
If you want your animal to carry a heavy load, you need to take good care of it
I wrote an article about taking care of your horse’s feet; you can check out here: How to Care for and Clean Horses Hooves: 6 Essential Steps
Not only do you have to account for the weight of your horse’s riding gear, but you also have to ensure that the equipment sits comfortably on your horse
Some saddles can be very heavy, adding extra weight
Other times, riding or pack saddles fit poorly and do not distribute your weight to the horse evenly
Lastly, as a horse owner, you can make the best call regarding what weight your horse can safely carry
As you are intimately aware of your horse’s strengths and limitations, you can make the best call regarding its carrying capacity
You can consider factors like age, fitness level, terrain, temperature, temperament, and rider expertise to make an informed decision
When a horse’s activity level is increased, its metabolism works faster, and its nutritional needs also go up
Similarly, when the weight a horse is carrying increases, its metabolism again starts working faster, and its caloric demands go up
Thus, when you are working at full carrying capacity, you should also take good care of your horses’ nutritional and caloric needs to ensure optimal health
Here is a chart to help you determine what weight your horse can safely carry
Horse BreedHorse Weight (lbs )Carry Capacity (lbs )Arabian800-1000160-200Icelandic Horse730-840165-190Racehorse900-1100180-220Paso Fino700-1000175-250Thoroughbred1000-1300200-260Quarter Horse1000-1300200-260Clydesdale1600-1800320-360Andalusian1000-1300200-260Appaloosa1000-1300200-260Cleveland Bay1200-1500240-300Dutch Warmblood1200-1300240-260Shire1700-2700340-540Standardbred1000-1320200-264Mule800-1000200-250Miniature Horse150-35030-70
Note: Carrying capacity includes rider weight, riding gear weight, and the weight of any additional load your horse may be carrying
Saddle weight can vary from 10-60 lbs
Why Knowing a Horse’s Carry Capacity is Important
Knowing a horse’s carry capacity is important for several reasons
First and foremost, it ensures the horse’s welfare and health
Overloading a horse beyond its carrying capacity can cause strain, injury, or long-term damage to its bones, muscles, and back
Moreover, knowing a horse’s carrying capacity helps riders and trainers to select appropriate riding gear and tack and to plan their training and exercise regimes to match the horse’s physical capabilities
This helps ensure that the horse remains comfortable and safe while performing the intended tasks
Finally, understanding a horse’s carrying capacity is important for equine sports and events that require specific weight limits, such as racing
Overall, understanding a horse’s carry capacity is a critical aspect of horse care and training that can help promote the horse’s welfare and performance
A horse’s carry capacity is the amount of weight that it can safely carry
In addition, it’s important thing to know for people thinking about buying a horse
If you are using your horse to carry heavy people, you must ensure that the load’s weight is within its carrying capacity
There are a few factors that go into determining a horse’s carry capacity
The most important one is the horse’s weight
A horse can safely carry more weight if it is healthy and in good condition
Another factor that affects a horse’s carrying capacity is its build
Some horses, like draft horses, are built to carry heavy loads, while other horses, like racehorses, are not meant to carry very much weight at all
The age of the horse also plays a role in its carrying capacity
Young horses may not be able to carry as much weight as older horses
In the past, we used horses to transport goods, and it was essential to know how much a horse could carry and for how long without getting too tired or sore
Today, we use trains, trucks, and planes to move products; however, horse riding, racing, and other equestrian activities are as popular today as ever
And with the average person getting heavier by the day, we must ensure our horses are not overburdened
Professional equestrians are usually aware of horses’ weight-carrying capacities, but many horse owners are not and often ride horses too small to carry their weight
There are specific risks to exceeding a horse’s carrying capacity
If your horse is forced to carry heavy weights beyond its capacity, it is at an increased risk for lameness, back pain, and balance problems
When its muscles have to work at an increased rate, they will get sore, indicating discomfort
When horses are pushed continuously beyond capacity, they are more likely to misbehave and become difficult to manage, especially when novices are riding
If horse owners have no regard for their horses’ well-being and body limitations, then over time, their horses will develop permanent health issues, which will affect their performance
Is there a weight limit for horseback riding?
Horse rental facilities may set weight limits for horseback riding, but in general, there is no hard and fast weight limit number; it depends on the horse’s size, fitness level, and condition
As a guideline, horses should not be asked to carry more than 20% of their body weight
Can a horse carry a 300-pound person?
Theoretically, horses can carry a 300-pound person, but should they?
Horses are strong large animals, but even they have their limits
How much weight can a horse pull?
However, these are healthy and well-trained draft horses; most other horse breeds could never pull loads this heavy because they are bred for racing or other tasks and not pulling loads