Stable Fronts - How To Choose The Right Style for Your Horses

By: Loddon Stables

The Loddon 'Ascot' range has the anti weave yoke

The Loddon 'Nelson' range features a low swooping front

The new Loddon 'Lexington' range features a stable front that has a larger clearance than most

When purchasing new stables, the stable front is one of the most important aspects to consider. While the front sets the design of an equine construction, there are a number of considerations that need to be taken into account in order to maximise the benefit for both yourself and your horse. 

The height of the stable front has a great impact on the overall look of the design, but the age and personalities of each horse needs to be considered before choosing a style. A low swooping front is usually the favourite as it creates an open and airy feel to the overall barn. However, this style is risky for more juvenile horses and stallions who may see this as an escape route out of the stable.

For more lively horses, a taller front with a yoke top is normally advised. A yoke top has a U shaped gap at the front of the stable where the horse can still comfortably stick its head out of the stable (providing more room) but minimises the risk of the horse trying to jump over the front. It also prevents weaving if the horses have been kept in the stable for long periods of time. With a Yoke top, there is also an option to have an infill that closes the yoke for times where you may want the passageway to be clear of curious horses, an option not available on many low fronted styles.

If you are looking for a stable front that has a larger clearance than most, the new Loddon Lexington range is now available in Australia. Unlike most stables, the Lexington has no vertical support beam, removing any danger the horse may have of hitting its head on the frame. The structural integrity of the stable remains the same due to the strength of the posts and fixtures.

For larger barns that contain many horses and stables, the daily ritual of filling food bowls can often be a time consuming task. A solution to this would be the inclusion of a swivel manger on the stable front. This food bowl, on a rotating panel can easily be filled without having to actually enter the stable.  This is often a good choice when working with trickier horses that aren’t the easiest to manoeuvre around.

A final consideration is also the type of door used, be it sliding or hinged. For stable areas that are tight for space, sliding doors are advisable as they don’t encroach on the clear space in the stable barn. Hinged doors are best used in stables that have a good amount of room at the front so the swing of the door doesn’t affect any surrounding equipment or supports.

At Loddon we pride ourselves on the safety of our product for both the horse and handler. By providing stables suited to the individual needs of each owner and horse, we are able to create the most comfortable environment possible for your equestrian sanctuary.

Quick Links

• Read more about Loddon Stables and Killahy Constructions who will install them for you in Australia
• Check out the new 'Lexington' range