Horses of all breeds deserve to be kept warm and comfortable during all weather conditions, staying protected from the elements and maintaining a healthy coat. With so many different types of horse rugs available on the market, each serving a different purpose and offering different benefits, knowing which to choose for your horse can become a tricky decision. We delve into the various types of horse rugs available to give you a brief overview of the differences between each so you can make the best decision for you and your horse.
Turnout rugs
Ideal for milder weather, turnout rugs are ideal for maintaining a clean and tidy coat. Many horse owners opt for a turnout rug during the warm spring, summer and autumn months as their lightweight properties are ideal for allowing the skin to breathe and keeping them comfortable. For horses who are out in the field all day, the turnout rug is perfect for keeping their coat clean and protecting against unexpected weather conditions as it is waterproof so you don’t have to rush outside to change their rug.
Fly rugs
During the summer months, flies, mosquitos and biting insects become a daily nuisance as they surround your horse. As well as being irritating for your horse, they risk transmitting harmful diseases so specialist fly rugs are designed using fabrics and patterns which discourage insects from landing on them and protect from biting. Fly rugs can be paired with fly masks and neck covers for maximum protection for areas which are particularly prone to insects.
Cooler rugs
With soft lining and wicking properties, cooler rugs are ideal for warm weather or post exercise to regulate the body’s temperature. The breathable fabric makes them suitable for in the stable and on the go as well as after intense training or bathing. Many horse owners rely on their cooler rugs to keep their horse clean and maintain a tidy coat as they keep dust and dirt at bay.
Fleece rugs
An absolute must have for winter months is a fleece rug which provides your horse with the warmth and comfort it needs in harsh weather conditions. As well as being warm, they still allow the skin to breathe and offer multiple uses so you don’t need to fork out for various different rugs. You can use fleece runs in the stable, when travelling or even as an under rug to offer an additional layer of protection.
Exercise rugs
When riding, ensuring your horse is kept warm and dry will both keep them comfortable and help you achieve the best results. They are designed to protect your horse from the weather conditions as well as ensuring the warmed up muscles do not cool down too quickly, preventing injury and keeping them comfortable. Typically, they extend from the front of the saddle across to the rear of the horse to keep their back warm and dry when riding during colder weather without risking overheating during intense physical activity.
