Getting a cart the right size for your pony is extremely important. If a cart is too big, the pony could be injured. If a cart is too small, it will be an uncomfortable ride for pony and driver. The weight of the cart is just as important as the size. A light cart might not grip the road and could topple over. A heavy cart will hurt the pony's back. If in doubt, seek professional advice before you go out on a public road.
- Getting a cart the right size for your pony is extremely important.
- If a cart is too small, it will be an uncomfortable ride for pony and driver.
Measure your pony on a level ground. Measure from the ground in a straight line up the pony's withers. Convert the measurement to hands. Write down the measurement in centimetres and hands. Ten centimetres equals one hand in horse measurements. Measure the pony from the ground to just below the muscular section of the hindquarters. Write down the measurement in centimetres and hands.
- Measure your pony on a level ground.
- Write down the measurement in centimetres and hands.
Measure the cart from the ground to the shafts. The cart should be in driving position.
Work out if the shafts are the same height as the bottom of the pony's hindquarters.
Weigh or find out the weight of the cart and the pony. A pony can pull twice its own weight, including the driver.
- Measure the cart from the ground to the shafts.
- Weigh or find out the weight of the cart and the pony.
Tell the vendor the exact measurements of the pony and the weight of the driver, if you're buying a cart online or over the phone.
Check the measurements of the pony and the cart according to the chart below. All measurements are in hands.
12-3 to 13-2 pony
65-inch shaft length
23-inch narrowest point
44-inch wheel base
26-inch wheel size
26-inch wood wheels
12 to 12-2 pony
60-inch shaft length
21-inch narrowest point
44-inch wheel base
26-inch wheel size
26-inch wood wheels