Tink-Cantinus 3 is owned by Elizabeth Johnson.
DECODING EQUINE HEIGHT: HOW HORSES ARE MEASURED IN HANDS
Do you know how to measure a horse’s height? When it comes to describing a horse’s height, an unusual yet fascinating measurement system is used: hands. While most measurements are expressed in feet and inches, horses have their own unique way of determining height. In this blog post, we will delve into the intriguing world of equine measurement and explore how horses are measured in hands.
In the equestrian world, a “hand” is a unit of measurement equivalent to four inches (10.16 centimeters). The term “hand” dates back to ancient times when horses were measured using the width of a man’s hand. Today, the hand remains a common and widely accepted unit for describing the height of horses.
To measure a horse’s height in hands, a measuring stick or a specialized measuring device known as a “height tape” is used. The horse is typically measured from the ground to the highest point of the withers, which is the ridge between the shoulder blades where the neck and back meet. The measurement is then expressed in hands, with each hand representing four inches.
To convert a horse’s height measured in feet and inches to hands, a simple calculation is used. Each foot is equivalent to four hands, and each inch is equivalent to one hand. For example, a horse measuring 15 hands is equivalent to 15 hands or 60 inches (15 x 4). A horse measuring 16.2 hands is equivalent to 16 hands plus 2 inches, which is 66 inches (16 x 4 + 2).
A horse’s height in hands provides a standardized and universally recognized measurement within the equestrian community. It allows for clear communication and accurate comparisons when discussing horses’ sizes, particularly in the context of competitions, breed standards, and buying or selling horses. Height can also impact the suitability of a horse for certain disciplines or riders, as different breeds and disciplines have specific height preferences or requirements.
Horses come in various sizes, and their heights can vary significantly. The height of a horse can range from a petite 14 hands (56 inches) to a towering 18 hands (72 inches) or even more. Different terms are often used to describe horses within specific height ranges, such as “pony” for horses under 14.2 hands, “horse” for those between 14.2 and 17 hands, and “warmblood” or “draft” for horses over 17 hands.
Measuring horses in hands is a longstanding tradition in the equestrian world, allowing for a standardized and practical way of describing their height. Understanding the concept of hands and how they relate to inches and feet provides a valuable tool for horse enthusiasts, trainers, riders, and breeders to communicate effectively and accurately when discussing equine heights. So, the next time you encounter a horse, take a moment to appreciate the fascinating measurement system that contributes to the rich tapestry of equestrian knowledge.
**This content was created for the blog and may or may not be factual or related to the animal in these photos. If this is your animal and you would like to provide content that is relevant to your animal please send us an email.**
Karinda K. is a Houston, TX based equine photographer that travels around the United States photographing equestrians and their horses. Karinda specializes in Outdoor Horse & Rider Portrait sessions that bring to life the magical relationship equestrians share with their horses, Senior Portraits, and Fine Art Black & White Background Portraits for those that want a piece of art featuring their very own animals.
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