Ready to hit the trail with your buddy? Every horse owner needs safe and comfortable transportation for their horse. With the different types of horse trailers available in the market, it becomes difficult for the owners to choose the best one. However, buying the right one is essential to ensure the comfort and safety of the horse.
Here’s a guide to help you know various types of horse trailers available. Have a look and pick the best one for your horse.
Stock Horse Trailers
Stock Horse Trailers are the least expensive of all trailers available in the market. Designed specifically for the safety and comfort of the animals, these trailers are generally used to transport farm stock. They have some adjustable vents and window panes, as well as adjustments made to offer a steady short-distance ride. Many horse owners choose stock horse trailers as they reduce the stress on the horses and give a little more freedom and movement. The only disadvantage these trailers offer is that they come with an open top, therefore sometimes cause discomfort to the horse during changing weather conditions.
TIP: They are best for short rides and can be used for hauling other horses too.
Gooseneck Trailers
Gooseneck trailers are most commonly used by a trailering veteran. Due to their increased stability and safety, they are used for hauling three or more horses. They also provide more room for living quarters. One of the biggest advantages of gooseneck trailers is their tighter run radius that lets you maneuver the trailer in tighter spaces. Though, you need to take a few tries to get the hang of it.
Gooseneck trailers have some limitations too. One is its size – they can’t be hauled with anything less than a pickup truck. Another issue with this type of trailer is its storage. Since they are generally larger than other types of trailers, storing them is a little complicated.
TIP: If you plan on camping in your trailer, gooseneck trailer is the one for you.
Bumper Pull Trailers
This is the most common type of hitch which is also known as a drag or tagalong trailer. Available in a variety of configurations, dimensions, lengths, gate style and building materials, this type of trailer usually costs less than a gooseneck trailer. If you are buying a trailer for the first time, bumper pull trailer is the best pick for you. That is because it has a normal turn radius, so the trailer will follow the towing vehicle as it makes a turn.
A bumper pull trailer has some disadvantages too. Due to their small size, they limit the number of horses you can transport and also make less space for the living quarters.
TIP: For longer, serious rides, equine enthusiasts must consider bumper pull trailers.
Slant-Load Horse Trailers
In a slant-load horse trailer, horses face the center of the road, standing side by side at an angle. They permit the horses within to travel at a position, making them comfortable and safe during accelerations and sharp stops. Removable dividers in slant-load trailers make it easier to customise to your needs.
Due to its structure, the trailer has limited useable space. Another disadvantage of this type of trailer is that if you want to unload the front horse, you will have to unload all the other horses to get to it.
TIP: This type of trailer is preferred for the transportation of large horses.
Wrap Up
Whether you are looking to upgrade your existing horse trailer or buying it for the first time, it is always best when you understand the key parts and operation of the trailers for better utilisation. Knowing horse travels and loads is an equally important factor in trailer selection.
Before emptying your wallets, just make sure you choose the right trailer that comforts your horse the best.
