If you are https://sqvro.com/how-many-feet-is-a-penalty-kick//, one hand equals 4 inches. Since 17 hands equals 68 inches, the conversion becomes 5 feet 8 inches.
This guide explains everything you need to know about converting hands to feet, how horse measurements work, and why the “hand” system is still used today.
What Does “Hands” Mean in Horse Measurement?
A “hand” is a traditional unit used to measure the height of horses.
One hand equals:
- 4 inches
Horses are measured from the ground to the withers, which is the highest point of the horse’s back between the shoulders.
The hand measurement system has been used for centuries and is still the standard measurement in the horse world.
For example:
- 14 hands = 56 inches
- 15 hands = 60 inches
- 17 hands = 68 inches
How Many Feet Is 17 Hands Exactly?
To convert 17 hands into feet:
- Multiply 17 by 4
- Convert the inches into feet
Calculation:
- 17 × 4 = 68 inches
- 68 inches ÷ 12 = 5 feet 8 inches
So:
- 17 hands = 68 inches
- 17 hands = 5 feet 8 inches
This measurement refers only to the horse’s height at the withers, not the top of the head.
17 Hands in Different Measurements
| Measurement Type | Equivalent |
| Hands | 17 hands |
| Inches | 68 inches |
| Feet & Inches | 5 feet 8 inches |
| Centimeters | 172.72 cm |
| Meters | 1.73 m |
Step-by-Step Hands to Feet Conversion
Converting horse height is easy once you understand the formula.
Step 1: Know the Basic Rule
One hand equals 4 inches.
Step 2: Multiply the Number of Hands
For a 17-hand horse:
- 17 × 4 = 68 inches
Step 3: Convert Inches to Feet
There are 12 inches in one foot.
- 68 ÷ 12 = 5 feet with 8 inches remaining
Final result:
- 17 hands = 5 feet 8 inches
Quick Hands to Feet Conversion Chart
Here is a quick reference table for common horse heights.
| Hands | Inches | Feet & Inches |
| 14 hands | 56 inches | 4 ft 8 in |
| 15 hands | 60 inches | 5 ft 0 in |
| 15.2 hands | 62 inches | 5 ft 2 in |
| 16 hands | 64 inches | 5 ft 4 in |
| 16.2 hands | 66 inches | 5 ft 6 in |
| 17 hands | 68 inches | 5 ft 8 in |
| 17.2 hands | 70 inches | 5 ft 10 in |
| 18 hands | 72 inches | 6 ft 0 in |
This chart helps horse owners and riders quickly estimate horse height.
Why Horses Are Measured in Hands
The hand measurement system dates back hundreds of years.
Originally, people used the width of a human hand to estimate horse height. Over time, the system became standardized.
Today:
- 1 hand always equals 4 inches
- The system is recognized worldwide
- Most horse competitions and registrations use hands
Even though feet and centimeters are common today, horse owners still prefer hands because it is traditional and easy to use.
Is a 17-Hand Horse Tall?
Yes, a 17-hand horse is considered tall.
Most average riding horses are between:
- 14.2 hands
- 16.2 hands
A horse standing 17 hands is larger than average and often belongs to sport or draft breeds.
Tall horses are commonly used for:
- Dressage
- Show jumping
- Eventing
- Carriage work
- Heavy riding
Because of their size, they are often better suited for taller riders.
Common Horse Breeds That Reach 17 Hands
Several horse breeds commonly grow to around 17 hands.
Thoroughbreds
Many Thoroughbreds used in racing and sport disciplines are tall and athletic.
Warmbloods
Warmblood breeds are popular in dressage and jumping competitions.
Examples include:
- Dutch Warmblood
- Hanoverian
- Holsteiner
Shire Horses
Shires are among the tallest horses in the world and often exceed 17 hands.
Clydesdales
Clydesdales are famous for their height, strength, and feathered legs.
Friesians
Some Friesians also reach 17 hands while maintaining a muscular build.
How to Measure a Horse Properly
Measuring a horse accurately is important for competitions, equipment fitting, and buying decisions.
What You Need
- Measuring stick or tape
- Flat ground
- Calm horse
Measuring Steps
1. Place the Horse on Level Ground
Uneven ground can create inaccurate measurements.
2. Locate the Withers
The withers are the highest point between the shoulder blades.
3. Measure Vertically
Measure from the ground straight up to the withers.
4. Convert the Height
If the measurement is in inches:
- Divide by 4 to get hands
Example:
- 68 inches ÷ 4 = 17 hands
Common Mistakes When Converting Hands
Many beginners make mistakes when reading horse measurements.
Confusing Decimal Numbers
Horse measurements such as 17.2 do not mean decimal values.
Instead:
- 17.2 means 17 hands and 2 inches
The number after the decimal only represents inches from 1 to 3.
Measuring to the Head
Horse height is measured to the withers, not the ears or head.
Forgetting the Basic Formula
Always remember:
- 1 hand = 4 inches
- 12 inches = 1 foot
Real-Life Comparison of a 17-Hand Horse
A 17-hand horse is very large compared to the average person.
The withers alone stand:
- 5 feet 8 inches high
When the horse raises its head, the total height can exceed 8 feet.
Because of their size, these horses often require:
- Larger stalls
- Bigger trailers
- More feed
- Larger saddles and blankets
Hands vs Feet: What’s the Difference?
Both hands and feet measure height, but they are used differently.
| Unit | Purpose | Size |
| Hand | Horse height | 4 inches |
| Foot | General measurements | 12 inches |
Hands are mainly used in the equestrian industry, while feet and inches are used for everyday measurements.
Why Horse Height Matters
Horse height affects many important decisions.
Rider Comfort
Taller riders often prefer taller horses.
Equipment Fit
Saddles, blankets, and tack must fit the horse correctly.
Competition Requirements
Some horse shows separate horses by height categories.
Transportation
Horse trailers and stable sizes depend on horse height and weight.
Tips for Remembering Hand Conversions
Here are simple tricks to remember horse height conversions.
Remember the Number 4
Each hand equals 4 inches.
Use Easy Benchmarks
- 15 hands = 5 feet
- 18 hands = 6 feet
This makes estimating easier.
Save a Conversion Chart
Many horse owners keep charts on their phones for quick reference.
FAQs
How many feet and inches is 17 hands?
17 hands equals 5 feet 8 inches.
How many inches are in 17 hands?
There are 68 inches in 17 hands.
Is 17 hands a tall horse?
Yes, 17 hands is considered tall for most horse breeds.
What does 17 hands mean?
It means the horse measures 17 hand units tall at the withers.
Why do people use hands to measure horses?
Hands are a traditional and standardized horse measurement unit used worldwide.
Conclusion
So, how many feet is 17 hands?
The exact conversion is:
- 17 hands = 5 feet 8 inches
That equals:
- 68 inches
- 172.72 centimeters
- 1.73 meters
A 17-hand horse is considered tall and is commonly seen in sport and draft horse breeds. Once you understand that one hand equals 4 inches, converting horse height becomes simple and quick.
