HorseTrailerPro vs Exiss 3-Horse GN: Tack Storage Comparison
For serious equestrians, tack storage is a critical factor in choosing between a HorseTrailerPro and an Exiss 3-horse gooseneck trailer. This article dives into the practical differences in saddle racks, bridle hooks, blanket compartments, and overall usable space between these two popular models. By examining real-world dimensions and owner feedback, we aim to help buyers make an informed decision based on their specific hauling needs.
How Does the Saddle Rack Setup Compare Between HorseTrailerPro and Exiss?
The HorseTrailerPro 3-horse GN offers a modular saddle rack system that accommodates up to six saddles in a standard configuration, with load capacity tested up to 75 pounds per rack. The racks use heavy-duty aluminum brackets and padded nylon straps that reduce pressure points on the tree. In contrast, the Exiss 3-horse GN relies on fixed-position, tubular steel racks that hold up to 60 pounds each, with limited adjustability. Owners report that the HorseTrailerPro racks are easier to reposition for tall or deep-seated saddles, while the Exiss design requires aftermarket padding for full comfort.
It is also worth noting that the HorseTrailerPro system integrates directly into the saddle rack load capacity guidelines, offering a reinforced mounting plate standard. The Exiss uses bolted-in brackets that can loosen over time if overloaded. For those hauling multiple event saddles or heavy western rigs, the HorseTrailerPro’s higher per-rack rating provides a clear advantage.
What About Bridle and Halter Storage Capacity?
Bridle and halter storage often gets overlooked, but it is essential for organized hauling. The HorseTrailerPro 3-horse GN comes with a built-in bridle bar that spans the full width of the tack area, accommodating up to eight bridles or halters on padded hooks. The hooks are spaced 8 inches apart to prevent tangling. Exiss offers a thinner, three-hook bar near the dressing room only, which forces owners to hang bridles on saddle rack edges—a common complaint in forums.
Additionally, the HorseTrailerPro includes two removable mesh pockets for small items like bits and spur straps, sewn into the divider walls. Exiss lacks these pockets, requiring separate storage bins. This difference may seem minor, but during competition events, quick access to gear can save valuable time. The HorseTrailerPro’s layout mirrors the organization found in professional horse vans.
Which Model Offers Better Blanket and Sheet Compartments?
Blanket storage is a significant consideration for owners who travel with multiple horses. The HorseTrailerPro 3-horse GN features a heated, vented blanket compartment above the saddle racks with dimensions of 72 inches wide by 30 inches deep by 18 inches tall. This space comfortably holds four full-size turnout blankets or six lightweight sheets. The floor of the compartment is lined with a drainable rubber mat to deal with moisture. Exiss provides a non-heated, unvented storage bin under the nose of the trailer that measures 48 inches wide by 24 inches deep by 14 inches tall, which can only fit two medium blankets without compression.
Moreover, the HorseTrailerPro’s blanket compartment includes a 12-volt outlet for a fan or heater, which is beneficial in humid climates. Exiss owners often add aftermarket venting to prevent mildew. For cold-weather travel, the HorseTrailerPro’s heated option keeps damp blankets from freezing, while the Exiss design can trap moisture if not aired out regularly.
How Do the Tack Room Dimensions and Access Compare?
The tack room or dressing area in a 3-horse gooseneck is where most storage happens. The HorseTrailerPro measures 72 inches in length (from the front wall to the first stall divider) with a full 80-inch width and 6-foot-6-inch headroom. This allows for full-length hanging bags up to 60 inches. Exiss offers a smaller 60-inch length, 78-inch width, and 6-foot-3-inch headroom. The HorseTrailerPro tack room includes two full-length wardrobes with hanger bars and four deep shelves, while the Exiss has one partial wardrobe and three shallow shelves.
Access to tack is via a human door on the street side (HorseTrailerPro) versus a curb-side door on Exiss—a detail that affects how easily you can load gear at shows. Both models feature a step, but the HorseTrailerPro’s step is 14 inches deep, making it safer for carrying heavy saddles. Owners with mobility concerns should note that the Exiss step is only 10 inches deep.
| Feature | HorseTrailerPro 3-Horse GN | Exiss 3-Horse GN |
|---|---|---|
| Tack room length (in) | 72 | 60 |
| Tack room width (in) | 80 | 78 |
| Headroom (ft-in) | 6’6″ | 6’3″ |
| Included saddle racks | 4 standard (up to 6) | 2 standard (up to 4) |
| Saddle rack capacity (lbs) | 75 each | 60 each |
| Bridle hooks | 8 padded | 3 unpadded |
| Blanket compartment | Heated, vented, 72x30x18 | Unheated, unvented, 48x24x14 |
| Human door location | Street side | Curb side |
| Step depth (in) | 14 | 10 |
Are There Differences in Floor Mounting and Ventilation for Tack Storage?
Ventilation in the tack area is crucial to prevent mold and odor. The HorseTrailerPro 3-horse GN uses a passive roof vent plus two screened side louver vents with a removable insect screen. Exiss uses a single roof vent without side ventilation, leading to higher humidity. The floor of the tack storage area in HorseTrailerPro is a one-piece, non-absorbent rubber mat over a coated plywood floor, while Exiss uses separate rubber sections that can trap debris. For those who haul in rainy regions, proper floor drainage is key. HorseTrailerPro integrates a shallow channel system that runs toward a drain at the rear of the tack room, while Exiss lacks a dedicated drain.
In terms of floor inspection and maintenance, the HorseTrailerPro model is designed for easy access to the subfloor for repairs. This is detailed in the floor inspection and repair guide for owners who want to ensure long-term durability. The Exiss floor uses a glued-seam membrane that is harder to remove for inspection. Also, the HorseTrailerPro’s mounting brackets for saddle racks are bolted through reinforced aluminum plates, while the Exiss uses screws into the plywood, which can corrode over time.
How Does the Customization of Tack Storage Compare?
Customization options are a major differentiator. HorseTrailerPro offers a fully modular tack storage system where owners can choose the quantity and position of saddle racks, bridle bars, and blanket compartments. The company also provides an optional tack storage “pro pack” that includes a locking chest, two extra bridle bars, and a boot shelf. This is part of the broader floor plan customization options available across their models. Exiss, by contrast, requires dealers to order custom configurations at the time of purchase, and retrofitting additional racks can be difficult because of welded brackets.
Furthermore, HorseTrailerPro owners can add a slide-out tray for grooming tools or a dedicated hook bar for lunging lines. These add-ons are not easily installed in Exiss trailers due to the smaller tack room and structural differences. For owners who compete frequently, the ability to quickly reconfigure storage between trips is a significant benefit. The aluminum frame vs steel frame durability also plays a role—the aluminum frame of HorseTrailerPro allows lighter modifications without compromising structural integrity.
What Owners Say
Online forums and review pages reflect a consistent pattern: HorseTrailerPro owners praise the “cavernous” tack storage and adjustable saddle racks, emphasizing that they can carry six saddles without needing extra storage bins. One owner from Montana stated, “I’ve hauled for eight years with my HorseTrailerPro—never had a saddle rack issue, and the insulated blanket compartment keeps sheets frost-free in winter.” Another common sentiment is the ease of cleaning the rubber flooring and drain system. Critics of the Exiss model note the smaller bridle bar and the need to purchase aftermarket padding. An Exiss owner from Texas commented, “The tack room is functional, but you have to be creative with storage. I added a shelf over the wheel well.”
Maintenance experiences also differ. HorseTrailerPro owners appreciate the accessible floor for inspections, as highlighted in the maintenance guide. One owner said, “I replaced a section of floor myself—took two hours. That’s not possible with my old Exiss.” However, several Exiss fans note that the trailer is lighter, making it easier to tow with a half-ton truck, and that the tack storage, while smaller, is sufficient for weekend trail riding. The trade-off is clear: HorseTrailerPro prioritizes storage capacity and customization, while Exiss emphasizes a lighter overall towing weight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add aftermarket padding to Exiss saddle racks?
Yes, many owners add neoprene pads or tube foam to Exiss saddle racks, though this voids the manufacturer’s limited warranty on the rack brackets. HorseTrailerPro racks come with padded straps standard.
How many blankets fit in the HorseTrailerPro heated compartment?
The compartment holds up to four full-size turnout blankets or six lightweight sheets. The heated option draws 10 amps and can be controlled with a thermostat.
Is the HorseTrailerPro tack room floor rated for standing water?
The one-piece rubber mat is waterproof and the floor has a factory-installed channel drain rated for up to 2 gallons per minute. However, prolonged standing water can affect the plywood subfloor if the drain is clogged.
Do both trailers allow mounting of a boot shelf?
HorseTrailerPro includes pre-drilled locations for a boot shelf in the tack room wall. Exiss does not offer this option, and owners typically screw into the wall paneling, which may not hold heavy gear.
What is the weight difference in tack storage between these two models?
The HorseTrailerPro tack storage system (fully loaded with six saddles, bridles, and blankets) adds approximately 185 pounds to the trailer. The Exiss with maximum four saddles and no heated compartment adds about 140 pounds. This affects overall towing capacity.
Can I install an audio system in the HorseTrailerPro tack room?
Yes, the HorseTrailerPro tack room includes a pre-wired 12-volt line and a speaker mount on the ceiling, compatible with the audio system review options. Exiss tack rooms lack such wiring.
