Find a Slant Load Horse Trailer: Bumper Pull, Gooseneck Options
A slant load horse trailer safely transports horses for short, mid-range, and even long distances. Known for its angled stall configuration, it maximizes space while ensuring stability and comfort for horses. Whether choosing a bumper pull or gooseneck option, your decision depends on towing requirements, load size, and preferences. This article covers features, safety considerations, and how to select the best trailer for your needs.
Slant Load Horse Trailers: Double D Trailers Features
Standard Features
- Dressing room
- Extra rear safety divider
- Combination forward or reverse facing orientation
- Treated pine or Rumber flooring
- 80” width and 7’4” height
- Insulated horse area
- 16 Gauge Galvalite skin interior
- Custom hand made 2” padding
- Standard up to 15.3H/1100 lbs.
- *Optional side ramp and door
Exclusive Safety Features
- Frame constructed with Z-Frame Technology
- Z-Frame dividers with Safe Slam Technology
- Fiber-composite 1-piece no-leak SafeBump roof
- SafeTack rear-tack compartment
- SafeTack Reverse walk-on walk-off layout
- SafeKick walls
- Options to fit 17+H warmbloods
- Fully customizable
Slant Load Horse Trailer Features: What Should You Look For?
Slant load horse trailers feature angled stalls that improve weight distribution and optimize interior space. This design balances weight across axles, reducing trailer sway and increasing towing stability. Slant load trailers are ideal for transporting multiple horses without compromising safety or comfort.
The slant load configuration is highly popular due to its compact design, allowing for more efficient use of trailer length, while still accommodating multiple horses. This design is particularly effective for short-to-mid-range travel, ensuring horses are stable during transit.
Key advantages include improved safety, as horses are less likely to shift or lose balance, and enhanced loading ease due to features such as a rear ramp and side ramp access. Additional highlights include ventilation systems, which maintain air circulation for horse comfort, and anti-slip flooring, critical for minimizing injuries during transit.
Customization options, such as adding a tack room, saddle rack, or insulated roof, further enhance utility for horse owners, allowing tailored solutions for specific needs.
| Feature | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Angled Stalls | Stalls positioned diagonally to optimize space. | Increases capacity while reducing length. |
| Rear Ramp | Sloped ramp at the trailer's back. | Allows smooth horse entry and exit. |
| Side Ramp Access | Additional loading ramp on the side. | Provides flexible loading options. |
| Ventilation Systems | Airflow mechanisms to regulate temperature. | Maintains horse comfort during travel. |
| Anti-Slip Flooring | Textured or rubberized floors. | Prevents injuries during loading/unloading. |
| Insulated Roof | Roof lined with insulating material. | Controls interior temperature extremes. |
Why is the slant load configuration popular for horse trailers?
The slant load configuration is popular due to its efficient use of space and improved safety for horses. By positioning horses at an angle, the trailer reduces overall length while increasing interior capacity, making it easier to tow. This design also ensures better weight distribution, reducing strain on the towing vehicle. Additionally, horses often experience less stress in slant load setups, as the angled positioning allows for better support during movement.
What are the benefits of a slant load horse trailer?
The benefits of slant load trailers include better weight balance, compact design, and ease of loading/unloading. For owners, these trailers often come with dual axles, improving towing stability, and ventilation systems to ensure proper airflow for horse comfort. For horses, features like adjustable dividers and anti-slip flooring provide security during travel. Slant load trailers generally have a shorter wheelbase due to the efficient use of space. Imagine pulling into a parking lot with angled spaces, it works so much better than trying to park in a lot where all the spaces are straight.
How does the slant load design ensure better weight distribution during towing?
The angled stall arrangement in slant load trailers spreads the weight of the horses evenly across the trailer axles. This minimizes the risk of trailer sway, particularly during high-speed travel or turns, and improves overall towing stability.
Bumper Pull vs. Gooseneck: Which Hitch Type is Best for You?
The choice between bumper pull and gooseneck horse trailers depends on your specific towing needs. The key differences lie in hitch placement and towing capacity.
Bumper pull trailers attach to the rear of the towing vehicle and are ideal for smaller, lighter weight loads. They are simpler to attach and generally less expensive. There is a common misconception that bumper pull trailers are more prone to sway. A bumper pull, when being towed behind an adequately equipped tow vehicle, is just as safe as a gooseneck. What makes a bumper pull sway is towing with underrated tow vehicles and a lack of weight distribution.
| Aspect | Bumper Pull | Gooseneck |
|---|---|---|
| Weight Capacity | Handles smaller loads. | Suited for heavy, large trailers. |
| Attachment | Rear of vehicle. | Inside the truck bed. |
| Stability | Prone to sway if not being towed by an adequately rated tow vehicle or with proper weight distribution. | Excellent stability, even in wind. |
| Cost | More affordable. | Higher initial investment. |
| Towing Requirements | Requires standard hitch. | Requires gooseneck-compatible truck bed. |
Essential Safety Features in Slant Load Horse Trailers
Safety features such as ventilation systems, anti-slip flooring, and breakaway systems maintain comfort and security.
| Feature | Function | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Ventilation Systems | Provides consistent airflow. | Prevents overheating and stress in horses. |
| Anti-Slip Flooring | Textured surfaces for secure footing. | Reduces the risk of injury during transit, as well as loading/unloading. |
| Breakaway Systems | Activates brakes in case of detachment. | Ensures trailer stability in emergencies. |
Customizing Your Slant Load Trailer
Customization allows horse owners to modify their trailers according to specific needs. The most useful (and popular) customization options are listed below.
- Adjustable Stall Dividers: Flexibly accommodates horses of various sizes.
- Padding and Lining: Increases comfort and reduces injury risks.
- Enhanced Ventilation: Ensures adequate airflow for a healthy environment.
- Quality Flooring: Provides safety and noise reduction.
- Tack Storage Solutions: Organizes and secures equipment.
- Water and Feed Systems: Facilitates convenient feeding and hydration.
- Upgraded Lighting: Improves visibility and safety in low-light conditions.
- Safety Features: Enhances overall security and monitoring.
- Living Quarters: Offers comfort for multi-day events.
- Exterior Customizations: Personalizes and adds functional exterior features.
How do tack rooms and saddle racks improve trailer utility?
Tack rooms and saddle racks organize and secure equipment, ensuring it remains easily accessible and protected during transit. Both tack rooms and saddle racks offer many benefits, such as:
- Organized Storage Space/Efficient Use of Space
- Prevent Gear Theft and Damage
- Secure Tack and Gear During Transport
- Easier Loading/Unloading with Designated Tack Area
- Adaptability for Various Needs
- Customizable Layouts
- May Enhance Resale Value
Why is an insulated roof a valuable feature in horse trailers?
An insulated roof helps regulate interior temperature, protecting horses from extreme heat or cold during transport. In addition, an insulated horse trailer roof can prevent moisture-build up, reduce noise, and extend the lifespan of the roof.
Should you tie a horse in a slant load trailer?
Tying a horse can prevent unnecessary or unwanted movement, which reduces the risk of injuries during travel. However, the decision should be made based on several factors, including the temperament of the horse, the design of the trailer, and the duration of travel.
1. Safety Considerations
- Tying a horse helps to limit its movement within the stall which can prevent the horse from turning around, or falling during sudden stops or sharp turns.
- By restricting excessive movement you reduce the likelihood of your horse injuring itself against the sides of the trailer or other horses in the trailer.
2. Horse Comfort and Behavior
- Some horses are more comfortable and less anxious when they have limited movement which can be achieved by tying them. This can especially benefit horses that are prone to panic or aggressive behaviors toward other horses. On the other hand, some horses will trailer better, particularly in a slant load, if they have the freedom to adjust their standing position and balance while travelling.
3. Equipment and Tying Techniques
- Use safe, sturdy halters and ties with a quick-release mechanism or breakaway feature for emergencies. This way, if a horse panics or falls, it can free itself or be quickly released.
- The tie should be short enough to prevent the horse from turning completely but long enough to allow its head to be lowered comfortably. Allowing horses to lower their heads help them maintain balance and facilitates natural respiratory functions.
4. Trailer Design
- Many slant load horse trailers are designed with horse safety in mind, providing enough space and secure tying points in the stalls. Make sure that the tying points are positioned to avoid causing discomfort or injury to the horse.
- Proper ventilation and adequate space are extremely important. Even when tied, the horse should have enough room and airflow to feel comfortable and not claustrophobic.
How wide should a slant load horse trailer be?
The width of a slant load horse trailer should accommodate the size of your largest horse, allowing for enough space to stand comfortably without feeling cramped.
1. Standard Dimensions
For horses up to 15.2 hands weighing 1100 lbs., typically considered small breeds, a standard trailer width of 80 inches with a 40-inch stall is sufficient. This allows for adequate room for the horse to stand.
2. Larger Breed Horses
For larger breed horses, increasing trailer width (and sometimes height) is necessary. The maximum legal width for an interior horse trailer box is 102 inches with a 55-inch stall. These dimensions are designed to comfortably fit horses that are 17.2 hands and larger, providing them with ample space to move and balance during transit.
3. Legal and Safety Considerations
It's important to note that while 102 inches is the maximum legal width for a horse trailer interior box, this width dimension optimizes the balance between adequate interior space for larger breeds and safe, legal transport on the roads.
4. Customization Options
If your transportation needs include very large horses, consider opting for a custom horse trailer design. This will allow you to specify your stall sizes to ensure that all of your horses travel in comfort and safety.
5. Why Width Matters
Adequate trailer width is not just about legalities; it's about making sure that each horse feels comfortable, can maintain its balance, and minimize their stress during travel. A cramped trailer can lead to stress, injury, and an overall negative trailer experience for your horses.
How much does a 2 horse slant weigh?
The weight of a 2 horse slant load trailer can vary significantly depending on the materials used in construction and the specific features included. Here's what you need to know to understand how much a 2 horse slant load trailer might weigh:
1. Base Weight
The typical dry weight (empty weight) of a 2 horse slant load trailer typically ranges from 2,600 to 4,700 pounds (depending on the style: bumper pull or gooseneck). This weight includes the basic structure but none of the additional gear, water, or horses.
2. Material Impact
- Aluminum Trailers: Aluminum is a lighter material commonly used in trailer manufacturing. An aluminum 2 horse slant load trailer usually weighs on the lower end of the spectrum, offering easier towing.
- Steel Trailers: Steel is heavier than aluminum and adds considerable weight. Steel trailers are sturdier but increase the gross vehicle weight, potentially requiring a more powerful towing vehicle.
- Z-Frame Technology: Double D Trailers utilizes Z-Frame technology, which is a zinc-coated steel frame that offers the strength of steel with added corrosion resistance, akin to aluminum. This innovative material strikes a balance between durability and weight, potentially affecting the overall weight of the trailer but providing enhanced longevity and safety.
3. Features and Customizations
- Add-ons: Features such as living quarters, tack rooms, extra padding, and reinforced frames can add to the base weight. For example, a trailer with extensive living quarters could weigh considerably more, potentially exceeding 10,000 lbs.
- Water and Gear: Remember to consider the weight of any water you carry and the gear stored in the trailer, as these can add several hundred pounds.
4. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
It’s important to know the trailer’s GVWR, which includes the total weight of the trailer plus its maximum load capacity. This figure is crucial for determining if your towing vehicle can safely haul your trailer when it’s fully loaded.
Alternatives to Slant Load Horse Trailers: Is There a Better Option?
Why might someone prefer a straight load over a slant load trailer?
Many people mistakenly believe that straight load trailers are better for large horses while slant loads are only suitable for smaller ones. This misconception often arises from a lack of accurate information. In reality, a well-designed slant load trailer can comfortably accommodate horses over 17 hands, such as Warmbloods. Additionally, slant loads offer the convenience of walking horses in and turning them around to walk out, eliminating the need for backing out, which is necessary in straight load trailers.
What are the pros and cons of reverse load horse trailers?
Reverse load horse trailers offer a unique configuration where horses load from a rear or side ramp and face the rear of the trailer during transport. This design has specific advantages and disadvantages that are important for horse owners to consider.
Pros of Reverse Load Horse Trailers
- Reduced Stress and Anxiety: By allowing horses to face the rear, reverse load trailers can help reduce the stress associated with travel. Many horses find this orientation more natural, as it prevents the forward motion from affecting their balance.
- Easier Loading and Unloading: These trailers often feature ramps that facilitate easier and safer loading and unloading, eliminating the need for horses to back out of the trailer, which can be stressful and dangerous for both horses and handlers.
- Improved Stability: The design can offer better stability during travel, as the weight distribution tends to be more evenly spread across the trailer's axles, reducing sway and improving overall road handling.
Cons of Reverse Load Horse Trailers
- Suitability/Travel Preferences: Consider your horses’ preferences and any previous experiences they have with different trailer types. Some horses may prefer the reverse configuration immediately, while others might need time to adjust.
- Cost: Due to their specialized design and lower production volumes, reverse load trailers can be more expensive than traditional designs.
- Limited Availability: Reverse load trailers can be less common than traditional forward-facing models, which might limit your options when purchasing a new or used trailer. Look for a horse trailer brand that offers reverse load models.
Choose the Perfect Slant Load Horse Trailer for Your Needs
When picking out the perfect slant load horse trailer, you really want to zero in on the features that matter most. Think about the setup—from the angled stalls that offer extra comfort during travel, to the must-have safety features like robust ventilation, sturdy anti-slip flooring, and dependable breakaway systems. Are you leaning towards a bumper pull or a gooseneck? Make sure it fits your travel needs, the size of your load, and matches well with your vehicle’s towing limits. And don’t forget, adding personal touches like insulated roofs and organized tack rooms can make all the difference in how functional your trailer is. Take the time to weigh these factors carefully, and you’ll land on a trailer that feels custom-made for you and your horses.
Unsure of which slant load horse trailer is right for you? Chat with our team today!
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