Finding the right horse trailer can feel like a daunting task. There are so many brands, each boasting about being the best in safety, comfort, and style. 

Some trailers are built like tanks; others feel more like a cozy second home for your horse. It’s not just about a trailer that looks good or has fancy features. 

It’s about choosing a brand that suits your needs and keeps your horse happy on the road. Let’s explore the top horse trailer brands and see what makes each one unique.

Top Horse Trailer Brands: Key Takeaway

• Lakota Trailers
• Shadow Trailers
• SMC Trailers
• Sundowner Trailers
• Cimarron Trailers
• Exiss​ Horse Trailers
• Bloomer Horse Trailers
• Featherlite Trailers
• 4 Star Trailers
• Merhow​ Horse Trailers
• Logan Coach Trailers
• Adam Trailers
• Kingston Trailers

Types of Horse Trailers

Choosing the right type of horse trailer is important. Two popular types are bumper pull trailers and gooseneck trailers. 

Each has its benefits and is suited for different needs. Let’s break down what makes them unique.

Bumper pull trailers

Bumper pull trailers are the most common type. They attach to a hitch on the back of a vehicle. 

These trailers are smaller and lighter. They are easier to drive, park, and turn. Most trucks and SUVs can tow them. 

They work well for hauling one to three horses. However, they can sway more on the road. 

This happens because the hitch is further from the vehicle’s rear axle. They may feel less stable, especially at higher speeds or in strong winds.

Gooseneck trailers

Gooseneck trailers connect to a ball hitch in a truck bed, above the rear axle. This makes them more stable when towing. 

They handle turns better and reduce sway. Gooseneck trailers are often larger. 

They have extra space for tack rooms or living quarters. This is great for long trips or carrying more horses. 

However, you need a truck with a special hitch to tow them. This setup can be more expensive. 

Horse Trailer Safety Features

Below is a breakdown of essential safety features in horse trailers:

1. Solid construction. Reinforced frames and walls protect horses from impact and provide a sturdy environment.

2. Braking Systems. Electric or hydraulic brakes ensure smooth stops, reducing sudden jolts that could scare or injure horses.

3. Ventilation. Windows, vents, and fans maintain airflow, preventing overheating and improving air quality.

4. Anti-Slip Flooring. Rubber mats or textured floors prevent slipping, keeping horses stable during travel.

5. Dividers and Partitions. Secure dividers keep horses separated and balanced, reducing the risk of injury from sudden movements.

6. Escape Doors. Easy-access doors provide quick exits for horses in emergencies, enhancing safety.

7. Secure Latches. Strong latches on doors and ramps prevent accidental openings, keeping horses safely contained.

8. Proper Lighting. Interior and exterior lights improve visibility for loading and during travel, ensuring safety.

9. Suspension Systems. Good suspension reduces road vibrations, providing a smoother, less stressful ride for horses.

13 Best Horse Trailer Brands

Looking for the best horse trailer brands? Here are 13 top choices, each offering unique features and reliable quality.

1. Lakota Trailers

Lakota Trailers are the best living quarter horse trailers. 

They offer both bumper pull and gooseneck hitch types. Most trailers come with dual or triple axles, depending on the size. 

The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) can range from 7,000 to 16,000 pounds. Lakota uses aluminum for lighter weight without compromising strength. 

They have models ranging from two to four horses. Key features include spacious interiors, slide-outs, and premium flooring. 

These trailers are made in Bristol, Indiana, USA and were founded by Kevin Wilcox and Paul Ross. They focus on providing comfort and durability for both horses and owners during long hauls.

Pros

• They have spacious living quarters
• Built using durable aluminum build
• Easy to customize
• Has a good towing stability

Cons

• Higher price range
• Heavier models require larger tow vehicles

2. Shadow Trailers

Shadow Trailers offers a wide range of horse trailers, from bumper pull to gooseneck styles. They feature lightweight aluminum construction, providing strength without the extra weight. 

These trailers come with single, dual, or triple axles, and their GVWR can vary widely based on the model, from 6,000 to 14,000 pounds. 

Shadow Trailers are designed for easy towing, with smooth flooring and safe latches. They are made in Williston, Florida, USA. 

Tom and Kathy Stinnett established the company. Shadow Trailers are affordable, durable and safe. 

Pros

• They are lightweight
• Quite affordable
• Rust-resistant
• Easy towing and good ventilation

Cons

• Basic interior options,
• Not as customizable as other brands

3. SMC Trailers

SMC Trailers specialize in luxury living quarter horse trailers. Built from aluminum, they balance weight and strength. 

They usually come with dual or triple axles, with a GVWR ranging from 12,000 to 16,000 pounds. They use a gooseneck hitch for better stability on the road. 

Key features include custom interiors, slide-outs, high-end appliances, and climate control. These trailers are made in Bristol, Indiana, USA. The founders, Ron Yoder and Ron Raber, focus on combining luxury with functionality. 

Pros

• Has luxurious interiors
• Built with a durable aluminum construction
• Has excellent climate control.

Con

• Expensive, and requires a larger truck for towing.

4. Sundowner Trailers

Sundowner Trailers are versatile, offering bumper pull and gooseneck options. Made from all-aluminum, they are lightweight yet durable. 

They come with single, dual, or triple axles, and their GVWR ranges from 7,000 to 16,000 pounds. Sundowner has a patented double-wall construction, adding extra protection. 

Key features include all-weather flooring, adjustable dividers, and optional living quarters. 

These trailers are built in Coleman, Oklahoma, USA. Sundowner was founded by Jerry and Jo Chupp. 

They focus on quality and safety, providing well-ventilated spaces and secure latching systems. Sundowner Trailers are built to handle rugged terrains and long-distance travel comfortably.

Pros 

• Double-wall construction with an all-aluminum build
• Coms with versatile designs
• Has a strong resale value

Cons

• Pricey
• Some models may lack advanced interior features

5. Cimarron Trailers

Cimarron Trailers are crafted for strength and longevity. They use a unique blend of aluminum and steel, making them strong but not too heavy. 

Most trailers come with dual or triple axles and a gooseneck hitch for better towing stability. The GVWR ranges from 10,000 to 16,000 pounds. 

Cimarron offers sizes for two to six horses, with customizable interiors. Key features include insulated roofs, rubber torsion axles, smooth flooring and a focus on quality craftsmanship.

Pros

• Strong aluminum-steel build
• Has insulated roofs
• Highy customizable

Cons

• Higher cost and heavier than all-aluminum trailers.

6. Exiss Horse Trailers

Exiss Horse Trailers provides a variety of models, including bumper pull and gooseneck types. Constructed from aluminum, they are lightweight and resistant to rust. 

Trailers come with single, dual, or triple axles, depending on the size. GVWR ranges from 7,000 to 15,000 pounds. Exiss is known for its sleek design and affordability. 

Key features include quick-release latches, interior lights, and secure dividers. Exiss trailers combine safety, practicality, and style, making them suitable for both new and experienced horse owners.

Pros

• Lightweight aluminum
• It’s affordable and has good safety features
• Comes with a sleek design.

Cons

• Less insulation
• Basic living quarter options

7. Bloomer Horse Trailers

Luxury meets rugged in Bloomer Horse Trailers. Entirely aluminum, they are built to withstand the long haul with elegance. 

From Salado, Texas, these trailers scream high-end. Custom interiors, plush living quarters, and advanced suspension systems are just a few of their standout traits. 

Randy Bloomer put his name on these trailers, and it shows in their superior build quality. 

With dual or triple axles and a GVWR that can handle heavier loads, they cater to those who want their horses to travel in style without compromising on safety or comfort.

Pros

• Durable all-aluminum construction
• Advanced safety features
• Customizable

Cons

• Very expensive
• Heavier models require powerful tow vehicles

8. Featherlite Trailers

Featherlite Trailers live up to their name with an all-aluminum construction that’s as light as it is tough. These trailers have been on the market since 1973, thanks to Merle E. Miller. 

Known for aerodynamic designs and smooth towing, they offer both bumper pull and gooseneck models. Inside, you’ll find LED lights and customizable spaces that make hauling easier. 

No rust, less maintenance, and a reputation for reliability make Featherlite a go-to for those who want a hassle-free ride for their horses.

Pros

• It is lightweight
• Rust-resistant with an aerodynamic design
• It’s low maintenance and long-lasting

Cons

• Limited interior customization

9. 4 Star Trailers

4 Star Trailers come from Oklahoma City and are built with customization in mind. Aluminum all the way, these trailers are tough but flexible, literally and figuratively. 

Randy Lewis put his stamp on these, and they’ve been a favorite among professionals ever since. They feature their unique “Easy Care” flooring and sturdy safety latches that keep everything in place. 

With various axles and a GVWR that fits many needs, 4 Star Trailers are all about making things work for you and your horses.

Pros

• It’s strong and durable
• Has user-friendly features

Cons

• Comes at a higher cost

10. Merhow Horse Trailers

Merhow Horse Trailers have a long history, dating back to 1955. Known for their strong, all-aluminum construction, they provide a mix of durability and lightness. 

With both bumper pull and gooseneck options, they cater to various towing needs. The GVWR often sits between 7,000 to 16,000 pounds. 

Manufactured in Bristol, Indiana, these trailers offer modern interiors with optional living quarters and stylish finishes. They’re all about comfort, with plenty of ventilation and padded dividers. 

Pros

• Long-standing reputation
• Durable aluminum with comfortable interiors

Cons

• Heavier than some brands.

11. Logan Coach Trailers

Logan Coach Trailers blend tradition with modern tech. These trailers are unique because they use a galvanized steel frame and aluminum exterior.

They come in bumper pull and gooseneck types, fitting various needs, and often feature dual or triple axles. Logan Coach is based in Logan, Utah, and their models stand out with their “Whiz Proof” floors for easy cleaning. 

They’re known for trailers that handle tough conditions well, providing a safe and comfortable ride for horses. Perfect for those who don’t want to compromise on rugged durability or comfort.

Pros

• Strong galvanized steel frame
• Rust-resistant

Cons

• Has limited luxury options

12. Adam Trailers

Adam Trailers offers a practical approach with its horse trailers. Built from aluminum and steel, they deliver strength where it’s needed and lightness where it counts. 

With models ranging from small bumper pulls to large goosenecks, they cover various hauling requirements. The GVWR varies but generally falls between 6,000 and 14,000 pounds. 

Based in Rural Retreat, Virginia, Adam Trailers focuses on safety features like anti-slip flooring and sturdy latches. They aren’t flashy, but they’re built to last and get the job done. 

Pros

• Affordable
• Has a sturdy build and offers easy maintenance

Cons

• Fewer luxury features

13. Kingston Trailers

Kingston Trailers are made in Massachusetts, where quality and craftsmanship come first. These trailers use durable, lightweight aluminum, and are designed to be easy to tow. 

They are bumper pull types, though some models offer gooseneck hitches. With a GVWR that ranges from 7,000 to 12,000 pounds, they fit a wide array of needs. 

Kingston is known for its smooth ride, padded dividers, and well-ventilated interiors. The brand focuses on safety with features like easy-to-use latches and escape doors. 

Pros

• Durable
• Has good ventilation

Cons

• Fewer luxury options

What to Look for When Buying a Horse Trailer

When buying a horse trailer, think about safety first. You want a trailer that’s strong and built well. 

Look for solid construction, like steel or aluminum, that can handle bumps on the road. Make sure it has good brakes and sturdy latches. A trailer that sways too much can be dangerous, so check the axles and hitch type.

Comfort for your horse matters too. Look for non-slip flooring and enough space for them to stand naturally. 

Ventilation is key—windows and vents keep fresh air flowing. This helps your horse stay calm and cool.

Consider the size of the trailer. It should fit your needs, whether you’re hauling one horse or a few. 

Think about how easy it is to tow and park. You don’t want a trailer that’s too heavy or too big for your truck.

Storage and extras matter too. Some trailers come with tack rooms or even living quarters. These can be handy for long trips. But remember, more features can mean a higher price.

Finally, check the quality of the brand. A good reputation and warranty can save you headaches down the road. Make sure the trailer fits your budget, but don’t skimp on safety or comfort.

Interesting read: What to Look for When Buying a Horse.

FAQs

Conclusion

Choosing the right horse trailer isn’t just about hauling—it’s about peace of mind. Whether you want a basic bumper pull or a luxury ride with all the bells and whistles, there’s a brand out there for you. 

Think about what matters most: safety, comfort, durability, or maybe a bit of all three. The best trailer is the one that makes both you and your horse feel at home, even on the road. 

So, take your time, do your homework, and happy trails ahead.