Selecting The Best Equestrian Rugs – The Benefits Of Each Type & Whats Best

STABLE RUGS
Stable rugs are designed for warmth when in the stable. Most stable rugs are made from synthetic materials. They are available in different weights / thicknesses and are usually either quilted or padded. The varying weights of stable rugs aim to cover all variety of needs, but stable rugs can be worn as a layer, with either thinner rugs underneath or layered in different thicknesses.

Stable rugs should be deep enough so as none of the horses belly is visible. Most will have fastenings at the chest and cross over sursingles under the belly. Some also have fillet strings at their rear for additional security. If there are no underside sursingles on the rug, either an elastic sursingle or a roller should be used to secure the rug around the horse’s belly. These should be fitted in the same place as the girth sits and no buckles or fastenings should rest over the spine or other sensitive areas of the horse.

TURNOUT / OUTDOOR RUGS
Designed for horses’ to wear when out in the field. They help to keep horses dry, clean and warm. There are many different weights of equine turnout rug providing varying degrees of warmth and padding. They are made using synthetic materials and because of this have the advantage of being lighter in weight, without compromising its ability to be waterproof or warm. Some modern turnout rugs are prone to rips, tears or snagging to the fabric although many modern rugs are now made using ‘Ripstop’ material that aims to combat this problem.

There are heavier duty outdoor equestrian rugs, these are called New Zealand rugs. They are made from a traditional canvas or waxed cotton material. These rugs are a popular choice for horses where weather is likely to be more severe, e.g. snow, ice and sleet. Thinner rugs can be worn underneath for additional warmth and comfort. The extra weight that unfortunately provides these rugs with their excellent durability can often cause the hair on the horse’s shoulders and other prominent features to be rubbed away. Many are fleece lined or padded but this is still a common problem. Vests or Bibs can be worn in conjunction with these to help stop hair loss.

All outdoor rugs should be deep enough in length for warmth and protection, preferably with shoulder movement pleats for better freedom of movement and with a good overlap where the chest straps join. They should be fitted using cross over belly sursingles, the chest straps and either a fillet string or rear leg straps.

The primary objective when choosing a turnout or New Zealand rug is warmth and comfort. Think carefully and decide what qualities your horse needs from their rug to ensure you get the right one.

ANTI-RUB VESTS, BIBS AND SHOULDER VESTS
These are designed for use under other rugs where hair loss on the shoulders or other areas is a problem. Their elasticated thin material fits over the horse’s shoulders, withers and chest, providing protection from friction allowing heavier top rugs to slide over them.

FLY RUGS
Fly rugs and fly sheets are designed for one purpose, offering protection to horses in the field from flies and other bugs and insects. They are lightweight and usually made from a fine mesh material. Fitted using chest straps, cross over sursingles under the belly and either fillet strings or rear leg straps. Fly fringes are also used to assist in the prevention of irritation around the horse’s eyes.

SHEETS AND TRAVEL RUGS
It is not only the winter months or cold evenings that horses will benefit from a light covering. They are great for preventing dust from sitting on a horses coat and are also excellent for use when travelling horses, helping to prevent nicks and give a layer of additional protection. Sheets are made of a single layer of thin material, travel rugs can be slightly more substantial in thickness although the weights of both can vary depending on the manufacturer.

COOLERS
These are breathable and moisture wicking rugs that aim to help keep horses warm, dry and ventilated. They are particularly beneficial after exercise when horses are sweaty or after wet weather to prevent them from getting a chill. It is better for a horse to be dry before having stable or turnout rugs put on. Many people refer to this type of rug as a Thermatex rug.

Tammy is a avid horse rider who likes to advertise the best ways to be looking after horses. Tammy works part time for Anything Equine who specialise in equestrian rugs as well as Polly Products and Jack Murphy equine Clothing and products in the UK.