Mary Allen
Introduction: The Use of “Hands” in Measuring Horses
When it comes to measuring horses, the term “hands” is the standard unit of measurement. This may seem like an odd choice of measurement, but it has been used for centuries and is still widely used today. In this article, we will explore the origin and history of the term “hands” in equine measurement, how to measure a horse in hands, and why this unit of measurement is still used today.
Origin and History of the Term “Hands” in Equine Measurement
The term “hands” comes from an ancient measurement system that was used to measure the height of horses. In medieval Europe, the hand was a common unit of measurement that was used for a variety of purposes. The hand was the length of a man’s hand, from the tip of the thumb to the tip of the little finger, when the hand was spread out as far as possible. This measurement was used to measure everything from the length of cloth to the height of a horse.
The Standardization of the Hand as a Unit of Equine Height
Over time, the hand became a standardized unit of measurement for horses. One hand was equal to four inches, and this measurement was used to determine the height of a horse from the ground to the highest point of the withers. The withers are the highest point of the horse’s shoulder blades, and measuring from this point ensures that all horses are measured consistently.
How to Measure a Horse in Hands: Step-by-Step Guide
To measure a horse in hands, you will need a measuring stick or a tape measure that is marked in hands. Stand the horse on level ground with its head in a natural position. Place the measuring stick or tape measure at the highest point of the withers and extend it down to the ground. The number of hands is determined by the number of four-inch increments from the ground to the highest point of the withers.
Why Not Use Feet or Meters to Measure Horses?
While feet and meters are commonly used units of measurement, they are not as precise as hands when it comes to measuring horses. Horses come in a variety of sizes, and using feet or meters can lead to inconsistencies in measurement. Additionally, the hand has been a standardized unit of measurement for horses for centuries, and it has proven to be a reliable and consistent way to measure equine height.
Understanding the Relationship Between Hands and Inches
One hand is equal to four inches, so if you know the height of a horse in inches, you can easily convert it to hands. Simply divide the height in inches by four to get the height in hands. For example, a horse that is 60 inches tall is 15 hands tall (60 divided by 4 equals 15).
The Importance of Accurate Equine Height Measurement
Accurate equine height measurement is important for a variety of reasons. In horse racing, horses are grouped together based on their height, and accurate measurement ensures that races are fair. In horse breeding, the height of the mare and stallion can influence the size and conformation of their offspring, so accurate measurement is essential for breeding programs.
How to Convert Hands to Other Units of Measurement
If you need to convert hands to other units of measurement, such as feet or meters, you can use a conversion chart. One hand is equal to 0.1 meters or 0.333 feet. To convert hands to feet, multiply the number of hands by 0.8333. To convert hands to meters, multiply the number of hands by 0.1016.
The Role of Hands in Horse Racing and Breeding
The use of hands to measure horses is still a vital part of horse racing and breeding today. In horse racing, horses are grouped together based on their height to ensure fair competition. In breeding, the height of the mare and stallion can influence the size and conformation of their offspring, so accurate measurement is essential for breeding programs.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the Term “Hands” in Equine Measurement
The use of hands to measure horses may seem like an archaic practice, but it has proven to be a reliable and consistent way to measure equine height. The hand has been a standardized unit of measurement for horses for centuries, and it continues to be used in horse racing and breeding today. Understanding the history and importance of this term can help ensure accurate equine height measurement for years to come.