The best cooler rugs for horses are typically multi-purpose. Their main purpose is to aid gradual cooling after exercise, but are often also used to maintain an ideal temperature while travelling and to speed drying and prevent chilling after bathing.

It is absolutely essential that a cooler rug is breathable and possesses effective wicking ability to do a good job. Some are designed to be used in particularly cool or warm environments, so it’s worth considering when you expect to be using your new purchase most.

What is wicking material?

Wicking material draws moisture away from the body and is frequently used in technical clothing as well as rugs and saddle pads. Wicking allows the body to cool itself down – if you (or your horse) are exercising and the moisture (sweat) isn’t removed, the body won’t be able to cool itself, while if you stop exercising and the moisture stays on the skin, the body will get cold. The moisture is moved to the top of the fabric where it can evaporate. Wicking material is an essential when it comes to the best cooler rugs.

Best cooler rugs for horses

WeatherBeeta Wick Dri II Combo Neck Cooler

Colours: Charcoal/blue/white | Sizes: 4ft – 7ft3in | RRP: £89.99 |

This lightweight, breathable and wicking cooler from Weatherbeeta has a mesh-covered Cooldry fleece upper to offer additional protection to the major muscle groups and a mesh lower for optimum airflow. It has a combo neck style with hideaway neck pocket with touch-tape closure so that you can easily fold the neck away if desired. The fleece wither relief panel provides additional comfort, while the single adjustable buckle front closure, single hidden adjustable surcingle and tail cord keep the rug smart yet secure.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

Shires Tempest Original Mesh Cooler Rug

Colours: Navy | Sizes: 5ft – 7ft | RRP: £29.99 |

The lightweight, breathable and airy mesh of this Shires rug creates a micro-climate that allows moisture and heat to escape without causing chilling. It is fastened with T-bar chest straps, adjustable cross surcingles and a fillet string.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or naylors.com

Mark Todd Coolex Cooler

Colours: Navy/white, navy/red, black/silver, grey/plum or burgundy/white | Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft | RRP: £74.99 |

This smart, versatile rug from Mark Todd features triple-layer quilted fabric that effectively wicks moisture away to help maintain an optimum temperature. It is ideal for use when travelling, as a cooler after exercise or to dry a wet horse after washing. It features front chest buckles, low cross surcingles, and a fillet string.

In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

Protechmasta Therapy Cooler Rug

Colours: Black | Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft6in | RRP: £169 |

This Masta cooler uses far infrared radiation, which is a natural process that gently and safely assists blood circulation. It’s made of a highly wicking airmesh outer., which is lightweight and breathable to allow optimum airflow. The ceramic-infused lining helps to regulate temperature.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk 

Hy StormX Original MeshX Rug

Colours: Navy/grey | Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft | RRP: £32.99 |

Made from lightweight breathable mesh, this rug made by Hy will wick moisture away from the skin while preventing chilling and ensuring optimum comfort. It features a fleece wither area to prevent rubbing, front T-bar chest closure, adjustable surcingles and a fillet string.

In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

Ruggles Standard Triple Layer Wicking Rug With Tail Flap

Colours: Port Royal | Sizes: 2ft9in – 7ft6in | RRP: From £45 |

This rug from Ruggles is described as really handy in the colder months, particularly when you’re short of time. Not to be confused with a standard fleece, this quilted rug is triple layered and wicks moisture from the coat while keeping your horse warm. It features a nylon chest lining, generous tail flap and adjustable chest straps with quick-release clips. It is machine washable.

In the UK? View now at ebay.co.uk

Equine Products UK Mesh and Fleece Cooler

Colours: Navy | Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft | RRP: £48.60 |

This smart and lightweight mesh cooler from Equine Products features a wicking fleece lining with double belly straps. It is also machine washable.

In the UK? View now at equineproducts-ukltd.com

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The best cooler rugs for horses are typically multi-purpose. Their main purpose is to aid cooling after exercise, but they are often also used to keep horses cool while travelling and to speed drying and prevent chilling after bathing.

It is absolutely essential that the best cooler rugs for horses are breathable and possess effective wicking properties to do a good job. Some are even designed to be soaked in water in order to lower your horse’s temperature, we’ve grouped these together – jump down to water-activated cooler rugs for hot weather.

Best cooler rugs for horses

Best water activated cooler rugs for horses

These technical rugs are great for cooling horses down in warm weather, ideal for use as part of your post-cooling exercise routine, those horses who dislike hoses or when water is limited.

This cooling rug is designed to rapidly draw heat away from the horse’s body, providing up to 5.9°C of cooling without soaking your horse. It is made from a high tech, breathable open cell structure material, which is designed to effectively absorb and store water. It has front Velcro, a single belly surcingle with plastic buckle fastening and fillet string for added security. Available with or without a neck cover.

How to use: Just soak in water until it is fully saturated, wring, and drape for comfortable cooling after exercise, travel, or on warm days. It has a contoured and shaped cooling area to cover large muscle groups across the back and hindquarters with direct contact, with lightweight lower mesh panels enhance airflow and evaporation, making the cooling process more efficient.

You can reactivate it with water as many times as needed. Equilibrium advises not allowing the rug to dry out while on your horse.

This water-activated rug is designed to aid gentle surface cooling. It features embedded crystals that absorb cold water, creating a prolonged cooling effect as it evaporates, actively drawing heat away from key muscle groups. Anatomically shaped cooling panels maximise contact across the back and hindquarters, delivering targeted cooling where it’s needed most.

The lightweight breathable mesh shell fabric encourages airflow to aid in heat dissipation and evaporation. It has a single buckle front closure, adjustable single surcingle and soft fillet strap keep the rug secure.

How to use: Before the first use you need to soak the rug for two hours to activate the crystals. It can be re-activated multiple times by soaking in water for up to one hour. LeMieux recommends soaking in water at 15° or lower for optimum cooling effect. Remove the rug from your horse once the cooling crystals have reached ambient body temperature.

This breathable cooling rug uses water to help cool down the horse on hot summer days. This rug is only secured with a clip fastener at the chest and a fillet string. Neck cover available separately.

How to use: The rug comes with a practical bag that can be dipped in a bucket of water along with the rug – then just wring out the rug and lay it on your horse’s back. You can reactivate with water as many times as needed.

What is wicking material?

Wicking material draws moisture away from the body and is frequently used in technical clothing as well as rugs and saddle pads. Wicking moisture away from the body to the top of the fabric (where it can evaporate) helps keep you (or your horse) cool. Wicking material is an essential when it comes to the best cooler rugs.

If you (or your horse) are exercising and the moisture (sweat) isn’t removed, the body won’t be able to cool itself properly, while if you stop exercising and the moisture stays on the skin, the body will get cold.

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The best waterproof fly rugs are the perfect hybrid between the best no-fill rain sheets and the best fly rugs. As well as providing protection from summer showers, these lightweight and breathable rugs protect your horse from flies and the sun, making them ideal if you can’t get to the yard to keep taking your horse’s fly rug off when the rain sets in.

Best waterproof fly rugs: H&H’s quick guide

Best overall waterproof fly rug: Swish Equestrian Waterproof Fly Combination

Best for coverage: Premier Equine Buster Stay-Dry Super Lite Fly

Best design for deterring flies: Equilibrium Waterproof Fly Rug

Best for a rug-wrecker: WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Duo Shield Detach-A-Neck

Best for tiny ponies: Ruggles Combo Fly Rug With Waterproof Panel

Best fit for broad horses: Masta Turnoutmasta Hybrid Fly Rug

Best waterproof fly rugs

Equilibrium ran their own in-house test and found that flies were 51% less likely to land on this monochrome hexagonal print compared to the other prints and colours tested.

How to choose the best waterproof fly rug

A waterproof fly rug is ideal for horses turned out in changeable weather as they offer protection from flies, sun and showers. The waterproof upper section protects against rain while the mesh sides provide protection from biting insects and help to keep your horse cool.

Some waterproof fly rugs also offer UV protection. We’ve listed this wherever we’ve been able to get this information from manufacturers.

Waterproof fly rugs usually have larger tail flaps, should have quality and adjustable fastenings, and some also have linings to prevent rubbing and a belly flap for additional coverage.

Opt for maximum coverage – look for extra-large tail flaps, belly coverage and neck coverage to keep the flies from irritating your horse.

Consider the fastenings – if your horse is a fidget, look for fastenings that are easy and quick to do such as T-bar fastenings, but if your horse is particularly wide or narrow at the chest you may want to consider buckles for more adjustability.

Are fly rugs waterproof?

Not all fly rugs are waterproof, but some are! This selection of the best waterproof fly rugs are designed to be a hybrid of a rain sheet – with a waterproof topline – and a classic fly rug with a mesh bottom section.

How do I measure my horse for a rug?

In the UK rugs are measured in feet and inches. To measure your horse for good rug fit, use a soft tape measure to measure your horse from the centre of their chest to the furthest point of their hindquarters – follow these instructions on how to fit a horse rug.

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Arming your horse with one of the best fly rugs for horses is a great first step to protecting him against irritating flies and insects during the summer months. Fly rugs are a simple way to keep horses covered with a protection that won’t wear off.

For the ultimate protection against flies, combine the fly rug with one of the best fly masks, fly fringes, best fly sprays or fly gels.

If you’re worried about your horse getting caught in summer showers, you may want to consider the best waterproof fly rugs. Or if your horse is prone to suffering from sweet itch, check out the best “sweet itch rugs” that offer more coverage and are specifically designed to prevent midges getting to your horse.

Best fly rugs: H&H’s quick guide

Best fly rug for deterring flies: Equilibrium Field Relief

Best for rug rippers: Weatherbeeta ComFiTec Hexi Shield Combo Neck

Best fly rug for UV protection: LeMieux Arika Armour-Tek

Best budget fly rug: Shires Tempest Original Combo

Best fly with no/detachable neck: Swish Equestrian Nylon Fly Cool

Best fly rug for extreme sizes: Ruggles Combo

Best fly rugs for horses this summer

It also features traditional shoulder gussets, a memory foam wither pads for freedom of movement and added comfort, large belly wrap and three piece tail flap for additional coverage. It fastens with quick clip closure at the chest and has elasticated, adjustable and removable leg straps.

The front fastening distributes pressure, preventing rubbing on the shoulder and chest, while the antibacterial, anti-static lining enhances coat shine. The extra-long tail flap has an elasticated PVC-coated fillet strap, and for optional additional coverage, you can use the lined detachable neck.

How to choose the best fly rug

When choosing between the best fly rugs for horses, in many ways you should be looking for similar qualities of any good turnout rug – including a good fit, quality material and secure fastenings. The more of your horse’s body that is covered by the rug, the more protection he will have, but to avoid overheating the fabric should be very lightweight, breathable and have some reflective and/or cooling properties.

Other useful features of the best fly rugs for horses include detachable leg straps, large tail flaps and anti-rub linings or seamless necks. You’ll notice that the fastenings under the belly of a fly rug are less likely to be designed to cross – like a traditional turnout rug – as passing straight across provides greater coverage and protection. If you’re shopping on a budget, we’ve also rounded up a selection of the best cheap fly rugs.

Do zebra fly rugs work?

Over the last 10 years there has been a bit of research into this question. The findings suggest that the stripes confuse the flies, which prevents them from landing. Recently rug companies have been researching the effect of other colour combinations for the best fly rugs for horses, too, which is where the inspiration for Equilibrium’s hexagonal pattern came from.

Can I leave a fly rug on overnight?

Providing your horse’s fly rug is well fitting, leaving it on overnight shouldn’t be a problem.

Can I ride in a fly rug?

Not a traditional fly rug, no. However, the best ride-on fly rugs are designed to be used when riding and can make summer hacking much more pleasurable.

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You might also like:

10 of the best fly sprays we’ve put to the test and found to really work

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The best drying rugs for horses really can significantly reduce drying time – not only saving you time waiting a round, but returning your horse to a comfortable state more quickly.

While you could use one of the best cooler rugs to dry a wet horse, drying rugs are specifically designed to dry with speed and so have excellent wicking properties.

Drying rugs can be used any time of the year. Ideal for use after bathing, they can also be used to wick away sweat after exercise, travelling or as an under rug. Whether you’re hoping to save time waiting for your horse to dry off after a bath or make him more comfortable when cooling down after exercise, a drying rug could be the answer.

Best drying rugs for horses

What is the best rug to dry a wet horse?

The best drying rugs are crafted from a technical, absorbent, and lightweight material — qualities shared by all the rugs featured in this guide. These rugs are specifically engineered with a fast-wicking action to draw moisture away from your horse’s coat, significantly speeding up the drying process.

How to dry a horse quickly

The fastest way to dry a horse is with a solarium if you’re lucky enough to have access to one. If not, you can use one of the towel drying rugs featured in this guide; the technical materials used to design these rugs speed up drying times.

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If you’re in the market for a new rug for your horse for the first time, the sheer range of different rug types can be quite baffling. It’s likely that at some point in your horse’s life you’ll need most types for one reason or another, so here’s an explainer of horse rugs, including the pros and cons of each to help you work out which type of rug you need.

Unfortunately it’s not as simple as finding the right size, then picking out a fun colour and pattern – instead, there are rugs that warm your horse up, cool your horse down, help your horse dry faster, and protect your horse from the sun – and more besides.

Some rugs can be called sheets – fly sheets, rain sheets, summer sheets – and these are usually thin and lightweight, but they are still very much a type of rug. In the US, rugs are called blankets – and this guide includes all types of rugs, blankets and sheets.

Types of horse rugs

• Turnout rugs
• Stable rugs
• Cooler rugs
• Travel rugs
• Fly rugs
• Summer sheets
• Exercise sheets
• Therapy rugs

Turnout rugs

Turnout rugs keep horses warm and dry by protecting him from the harsher elements – rain, cold, wind or snow. They are available in different weights (similar to different duvet togs) to offer varying levels of warmth.

The weight each horse requires will vary as horses feel the cold at different rates, but our horse rug temperature guide should help you work out what weight you need when.

• Rain sheets – the lightest option and have 0g of fill
• Lightweight turnout rugs – designed for warmer weather and are usually 0-150g fill
• Medium-weight turnout rugs – usually 200-250g
• Heavyweight horse rugs – upwards of 300g fill and needed in the coldest weather

It’s advisable to have a range of weights so that you can adjust in relation to the temperature. Some rugs come with an outer layer and have liner that can be clipped in and out to change the fill.

Modern turnout rugs are made of technical waterproof outer fabric, which means you need to take care if washing horse rugs at home, so as not to compromise the water-repellent properties. Most rug companies will tell you the waterproof rating of the fabric – for example, 10,000mm – and the higher the rating, the more waterproof and breathable it will be.

Turnout rugs are rated in denier – 600D or 1,680D, for example. The higher the denier the count, the more durable the rug should be.

Turnouts are available with a range of neck attachments or built-in neck covers to keep your horse warm – and clean. And they usually fasten at the chest, the belly and hindlegs, plus under the neck if there is one. There are a range of fastening options, and you will usually pay more for easy-to-use and adjustable options.

Stable rugs

Horses that are clipped or spend much of their day in the stable – and are therefore unable to generate their own body heat by moving around – will benefit from one of the best stable rugs when the weather turns cold. Turnout rugs can also be worn in the stable – and if you have a horse that like to lay in dirty bedding they are arguably easier to clean.

Stable rugs are much lighter, and padded or quilted for warmth. They are not waterproof, so not suitable for outdoor use, however on a very cold day, they can be used underneath a waterproof turnout rug.

Like the turnouts, they come in various weights according to the level of warmth your horse needs. They are also available with or without neck covers.

Fleeces

Fleeces are usually a single fleece layer, rather than quilted like a classic stable rug. They are versatile rugs and can be used as coolers or for travel (although there are more technical options for each of these scenarios) and for keeping horses clean. They also make a good layer underneath a turnout or stable rug.

Stable sheets

Stable sheets are a thin cotton rug, designed for keeping the horse clean in the stable or a layer of warmth on cool nights when it’s not cold enough for a thicker rug.

Like fleeces, they are not waterproof, but can be used for layering underneath. Many owners use them before going to a show in addition to a stable hood to keep their horse shiny, clean and dust-free.

Cooler rugs

Cooler rugs are used primarily after exercise to prevent the horse from cooling down too fast, which can be bad for the muscles. They are made from a breathable fabric to allow sweat and moisture to escape so that the horse can dry off naturally.

Travel rugs

Travel rugs are similar to cooler rugs, with simple fastenings – and often double up as a show rug. They are lightweight and highly breathable to ensure horses don’t get too hot while traveling. Many owners will use a cooler rug as a travel rug and vice versa.

Some horses do not need a rug for travel, especially if they have a full coat, but for others they are an essential part of a horse’s travel kit.

Fly rugs

The best fly rugs protect horses from being bitten and irritated by flies and midges in the summer months. They are lightweight and breathable, designed for hot weather. They can also offer UV protection to prevent your horse’s coat being bleached in the sun.

You can also opt for a waterproof fly rug, which has a waterproof topline, or a ride-on fly rug, which will protect your horse from flies while you’re riding.

Fly rugs usually offer more coverage than a turnout rug in order to give the highest levels of protection. Some have belly flaps and larger tail flaps, and most have necks, some of which reach past the ears.

Fly rugs are usually light in colour to reflect heat away, while others are patterned, which helps to prevent flies landing.

Sweet itch rugs

The best sweet itch rugs have an even greater level of coverage and protection, preventing midges from landing on and biting your horse. Sweet itch occurs in horses and ponies that are sensitive to the irritants in midge saliva, and so need sweet itch rugs are designed with greater protection in mind.

These rugs usually offer even more coverage than a fly rug, such as a tail wrap under the flap, and some are designed to be more like a close-fitting suit. The material is usually closer woven, too.

Summer sheets

As the name suggests, summer sheets can also be worn in the field during the summer, and their main function is to protect your horse from the sun’s UV rays. They’re not suitable at other times of the year as they’re not waterproof.

Summer sheets offer similar coverage to a fly rug, but block a higher proportion of UV so are really useful if your horse suffers from photosensitivity, is at high risk of sunburn, or you want to protect the coat from bleaching.

Summer sheets are less common than they once were as fly rugs have become much more technical, meaning they offer increasing UV protection while remaining lightweight, which keeps your horse cool.

Exercise sheets

Exercise sheets cover the horse’s back and hindquarters, and are designed to keep these big muscle groups warm and dry while exercising in cold or wet weather. They are breathable, designed to wick away moisture, and allow a decent range of movement so as not to inhibit the exercising horse.

They are available in different thicknesses for different times of year – waterproof exercise sheets are also available, as are hi-vis exercise sheets with reflective strips for hacking.

Walker rugs are designed with light exercise in mind, but fasten under the belly and at the front. However they are cut away at the shoulder to allow freedom of movement.

Therapy rugs

Therapy rugs have a similar design to cooler rugs, but have additional features that are designed to offer therapeutic benefits. Some have magnets, while others are made with ceramic fabrics or have massaging sections.

They’re designed to be used by horse owners to help their horses recover faster, usually by increasing circulation.

How many rugs does a horse need?

This is a source of much debate. Some say a horse’s natural coat is sufficient given a good outdoor shelter in winter, and fly spray in summer. Many horses will have more rugs than their owners have jackets.

It varies hugely on the type of horse, whether he is clipped and what type of clip, their age, whether he lives in or out, available shelter, the climate…the list goes on. However, charities and vets warn that over-rugging can be a welfare problem.

That said, leaving their horse turned out with his full natural coat all winter long is impractical for most riders, so we need to rug appropriately. Some owners will easily have up to 14 rugs for one horse, while others manage with just one or two turnouts. For those who do rug up in the field, it is certainly handy to have a range of weights to use according to the temperature.

You may also be interested in…

Which rug should I put on my horse? H&H’s helpful guide to help you decide

When do horses feel the cold? Vet explains at what point your horse might need a rug

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Knowing when horses feel the cold and, consequently, when to rug is something that sits almost permanently in the mind of many a horse owner.

When the temperatures start to drop and the forecast is wetter, it can be tempting to reach for that massive, all-in-one heavyweight turnout rug to keep your horse nice and toasty – but in the back of your mind, you know that vets have warned about the dangers of over-rugging.

If you’re deciding whether to rug your horse, you could consult our rugging temperature guide for a quick answer, but it’s important to know at what point your individual horse is actually feeling the cold. To be sure you’re doing the right thing, you need to consider and understand how nature has equipped him (and the rest of his species) with some unique tolerances to cope with cold, wet weather and changing seasons. Vet Ricky Farr explains why some horses may need a rug sooner or later than you might have thought.

How horses have adapted

Horses are found throughout every climate on the planet, from the sub-zero north to the tropics and arid deserts. Their adaptations that allow them to remain within their specific thermal neutral zone are impressive.

The term thermal neutral zone describes the ambient temperature range at which the body needs to make no additional physiological effort to warm or cool itself. Humans have a thermal neutral zone of roughly 18-30°C and Ricky explains that “in other words, in this zone you could stand naked and still maintain your internal core temperature without too much issue.”

Horses, however, have a much larger thermal neutral zone and so feel the cold much later than humans.

“The average adult horse can quite happily live unrugged in temperatures down to 5°C,” says Ricky. “Having visited Iceland, I can testify that the native Icelandic horses live quite happily without rugs in temperatures down to -15°C, with wind and snow blowing horizontally.

“These horses have incredibly thick coats that demonstrate piloerection (the ability of individual hairs to trap warm pockets of air). They are also well acclimatised to their environment.”

While it’s extremely unlikely your horse has adapted to this particular climate, you can be sure your horse is not feeling the cold until much later than you are.

How horses balance their temperature

“A horse’s internal core temperature is a balance between heat generated and lost,” Ricky explains. “Internal body temperature is maintained by metabolic functions, such as digestion, movement and cardiovascular activity. The body also tries to conserve heat through the insulating properties of hair, muscle, fat and skin. A full winter coat is not only insulating, but also provides a degree of water resistance.”

Horses can lose heat in four ways – evaporation, radiation, conduction and convection.

Evaporation

This heat loss mainly occurs from water on the skin, through sweating or getting wet, which is why hosing down after exercise in the summer is so effective.

“Although horses do not pant like dogs, for example, respiration can also play a large role in heat loss,” Ricky adds.

Radiation

This is the normal process of heat moving away from the body without physical contact, such as heat lost from the skin to the environment.

“It is closely linked to the ambient air temperature and body mass,” says Ricky, who gives the example of two breeds that have adapted to very different climates. “An Arabian horse has a higher body surface to mass ratio than a Norwegian Fjord, for example, so will cool more readily in hot temperatures.”

A variation of this is radiant heat loss, when heat is transferred to solid surroundings.

“Keeping a horse in a walled stable in cold weather can actually increase the amount of radiant heat loss” he advises.

Convection

This is caused by airflow across the body – for example, an unrugged horse standing in an exposed field without shelter when the wind chill factor is high will lose heat fast.

Conduction

This is heat loss with direct physical contact.

“Water is a fantastic heat conductor, so wetting of the skin can, once again, increase heat loss. A recent study suggested that horseshoes might also make a difference: hind hooves had significantly lower temperatures when shod,” Ricky adds.

How to tell if a horse is cold

Monitoring your horse’s temperature is good practice. The reading should be between 37.5-38.5°C, but it is important to know what is normal for your individual horse.

“Checking the rectal temperature with a thermometer is the best way,” Ricky advises. “The practice of feeling a horse’s ears to check if he is warm is a very poor indicator of temperature regulation. Placing a hand on his shoulder or trunk will offer some indication if he is too warm and sweaty under his rugs.”

When to rug a horse

So what does this all mean when it comes to selecting types of rugs and winter layers?

“In essence, think twice before grabbing any rug,” says Ricky. “A horse in good body condition, who has a full coat, access to forage, free-roaming exercise and some form of shelter from the elements does not necessarily need more protection.

“If he is young, old, likely to get excessively wet for long periods or exposed to harsh weather conditions, however, he may require extra layers.

“I would actively encourage people to refrain from rugging excessively unless temperatures consistently drop below 5°C, although clipped horses or warmblood breeds may also need light rugs if they are consistently wet or outside their thermo neutral zone.”

Where possible, a horse will avoid conditions that are uncomfortable or increase heat loss – for example, they’ll access shelter when they need it.

“Monitor your horse closely for any subtle changes in behaviour and adapt your management accordingly,” Ricky advises. “But allow him to be a horse and to benefit from a natural cycle of weight gain and loss over the seasons.”

Factors that affect when horses feel the cold

A variety of factors affect how horses horses manage and regulate their temperature, which in turn affect at what a horse will feel the cold.

Breed

Some breeds, including British native breeds, are better adapted to colder climates.

“A study revealed that surface heat loss was seen more in warmblood horses than cold-blooded types, although it was not known whether this was due to body composition or as a direct result of hair coat thickness,” Ricky adds.

“When deciding whether to rug, bear in mind that a horse’s hair coat type, length and density will play a large role in his insulating capacity.”

Age

Young horses may not yet have insulating body fat reserves, which could make them prone to heat loss. Youngsters and foals are also more likely to struggle in colder temperatures as their body has to work harder to generate sooner than an adult horse would.

At the other end of the spectrum, studies have found that older horses (26 and over) are more likely to overheat, especially during exercise. This is due to age-related changes in thermoregulation (body’s ability to return to an optimum temperature range). In addition, changes to coat quality and fat distribution will affect their insulating properties in colder temperatures.

Body condition

While an undernourished horse will have decreased muscle and fat mass, with reduced insulating capabilities, but an overweight animal has the opposite problem.

“As less of his ingested energy will be used for heat production, the excess will consequently be converted into fat – perpetuating obesity,” Ricky explains.

Activity level

An immobile horse (stabled, on box rest or kept in a small paddock) will be unable to walk significant distances, which results in reduced metabolic activity and heat production.

Clipping

Exposed areas of skin will mean reduced hair insulation and increased heat loss.

We tend to clip the neck, shoulders and trunk, which is where most surface heat is lost Ricky explains.

“Hence, while clipping works well for exercise, it can be disadvantageous if the environmental conditions result in further heat loss through radiation or evaporation.”

So when considering when or whether to rug your horse, there is a lot to take into account – and it’s wise to remember that just because you’re chilly, it doesn’t mean your horse is feeling the cold just yet.

• For unlimited access to advice on how best to care for your horse, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You might also be interested in:

Which rug should I put on my horse? H&H’s helpful guide to help you decide

Not sure what rug to put on? An expert reveals how you could teach your horse to choose

Types of rugs – your horse’s full wardrobe explained

How to wash your horse’s rugs at home – and what’s best to use

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It doesn’t take much to have me questioning what rug to put on a horse – if only we could teach horses to choose a rug for themselves. I can’t be the only owner obsessively checking my weather app at the first hint of a cold snap, and then referring to a rugging temperature guide to double check my decision.

If you ever find yourself in this situation, you’ve probably also wished your horse could simply tell you whether they want their lightweight turnout, or if they’re quite happy in a rain sheet.

Well, I hope you’re sat down, because a team of Norwegian researchers taught 23 horses to do just that. They recorded their training methodology in this 2016 paper, and used their method to further research horses’ rugging preferences in an updated 2019 study.

Now, the project continues with high school students in Sweden and riding instructors in Norway learning how to train horses to communicate preference. The researchers are also developing a handbook to make the method more widely available – here are the key things you need to know to try it yourself.

Tolerance vs preference

Dr Cecilie Mejdell was one of the lead researchers.

“We observed that very many horse owners put a rug on their horse, and not just during heavy rain and other harsh weather conditions,” she explains.

“Knowing that horses in general are quite tolerant to low ambient temperatures, and that a rug covers preferred allo-grooming [horse-to-horse grooming] sites and also may disturb free movement, such as rolling, we wanted to know how horses themselves prefer to be under various weather conditions.”

The scientists already knew horses are adept at learning and distinguishing between cues, shape categories and geometric patterns thanks to research by Sappington and Goldman in 1994.

“Teaching horses to actively tell us to put on or take off a rug, using symbols, turned out to be an interesting method to try,” Dr Mejdell continues. She adds that they used clicker training principles to teach the horses.

“We had cooperation with a skilled animal trainer, Turid Buvik, who was certain that this was achievable.”

Training the horses to choose

Dr Mejdell and her team wanted to explore the possibility that horses’ discrimination between visual symbols could also link to a corresponding outcome, and whether this could allow horses to signal preference. In turn, these preferences might help guide horse-led management decisions.

The researchers applied this theory to rugging, and developed a tool to “ask” horses their rugging preferences.

Turid and her two assistants used positive reinforcement to train 23 horses of different breeds. The horses learned to recognise three symbols and to understand that the symbols had corresponding outcomes. These were “blanket on”, “blanket off”, and “no change”.

“We had different horse breeds in the training program, and all 23 horses learned the task within 14 training days,” explains Dr Mejdell. “Some individuals learned more quickly than others.

“Turid is a very skilled trainer, and that was probably important for the good training outcome.”

Once training was complete, the horses completed real-life preference tests. On one rainy test day, it was 9ºC. Of the 12 unrugged horses, 10 requested a rug while two opted for no change. Those two unrugged horses touched the “blanket on” symbol on test days with arguably the most challenging conditions: -12ºC and 1ºC with sleet.

“We do not know if every individual horse could learn this,” says Dr Mejdell. “But, given the 23/23 rate in our first project, we think that most can if they get a good trainer.”

How to teach your horse to choose a rug

Dr Mejdell says very little equipment is needed to teach this method.

“You need a food reward the horse likes, such as a carrot, and something to place the reward into so it is not hand-fed,” she says. “You also need symbol boards that can be hung on the wall and fence.

“In the early stages, we trained inside in the horses’ boxes, and later outdoors.”

The scientists and Turid developed a 10-step methodology for training the horses to communicate their rug preference. Each step has a goal criterion that, once achieved, the horse can move on.

The ten goals are split into three stages.

“The time needed per step varies among individual horses, and training must be tailored to each horse,” explains Dr Mejdell.

“During the first steps, the horse learns to approach and touch a board, using the principle of clicker training. Next, the meaning of two of the symbols [rug on and rug off] is learned by association and numerous repetitions.

“Lastly comes the transition to a free choice situation, and a “no change” symbol card is introduced. It is the horse who decides whether to have a rug put on [or taken off] or to stay unchanged.”

The 10 steps are described in the methodology paper (Mejdell et al., 2016). Dr Mejdell says these will be explained in far more detail in the upcoming handbook.

Timing is key

Dr Mejdell says that rewarding horses at the right moment matters.

“Timing is very crucial,” she explains. “In the early learning process, all ‘correct’ movements from the horse, however small, are rewarded.

“When two symbols are introduced, touching the meaningful one is rewarded, the other not.

“When the horse has passed on into the free choice situation and can choose between a relevant change symbol and the no-change symbol, touching either of those two symbol boards is rewarded.”

So, how long before you’re trying to teach your horse to choose their rug?

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You might also like:

Which rug should I put on my horse? H&H’s helpful guide to help you decide

Over-rugging is ‘a man-made welfare problem’ say vets

Owners have been warned of the risks of rugging their horses unnecessarily

Does your horse really need to wear a rug?

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Good rugs last for years, but knowing how to repair horse rugs can be invaluable – especially if your horse is one of those “rug wreckers”.

You can, of course, send your rugs off to a professional rug wash and repair person, but if you can’t manage without it for a few days or want to save money and reduce your horse bills, you can try to repair them yourself. And if you’re feeling thrifty, you can wash your rugs at home and reproof rugs yourself, too.

How to repair ripped rugs

How to approach a rug repair depends on the extent of the damage done. You can use these methods on all turnout rugs, but also fly rugs, summer sheets and exercise sheets.

How to deal with large rips

One method is simply to sew a waterproof patch over the damaged area. You’ll need a specialist upholstery needle and thread (like these on Amazon) to cope with the tough fabric, or an industrial sewing machine. You can buy waterproof fabric (like this on Amazon) in the colour you want, or you may have an old rug at home that is beyond repair that can be cut up to patch up the newer one.

• Spread the rug out on a large table or the floor so that it can lay completely flat and give you the best chance of making a neat job.
• Sew neatly along the rip – back stitch will hold best if you can manage it.
• Seal it with a strong waterproof glue, such Gorilla glue (also on Amazon). You could also use glue to seal a patch in place.

How to repair small rips

For small nicks and rips, you can get specialist rug repair kits, such as the Stormsure Repair Kit (available on Amazon). These patches (either self-adhesive or with glue) do the job well and prevent the rips from extending further.

If the patches are too small for the rip, try tent repair tape (like this), which can be rolled out as long as you need it, or a tent repair kit (like this one). These typically come in a range of colours.

How to repair broken straps and buckles

A rug repairer may be the best option for dealing with broken straps and missing buckles if you have the time to wait. But if you are up for a challenge, this is when that old, battered rug that you’ve been holding onto comes into its own. You can reuse the buckles and clips on your newer rug if anything breaks.

If the broken straps are not removable, you will need to cut them off first, noting how they are fixed so that you can copy this. Replace them, using heavy-duty webbing (available on Amazon), copying the original fixture. You will need an industrial sewing maching or a very strong specialist upholstery kit to tackle the thick fabrics.

For a quick fix to a broken leg strap buckle, you can buy new carabiner clips (like these ones) or specialist buckles (like these) to attach the strap. Duct-tape over the old broken clip so that it won’t catch anywhere.

Another emergency fix is to use baler twine as a fillet string under the horse’s tail instead of the crossover leg straps. Make sure you remove any trailing straps that cannot be fixed.

In a perfect world, our horses’ rugs would never tear, break – or get muddy – but with a few simple tricks and a bit of patience, you can make them last as long as they were intended to.

• For unlimited access to advice on how best to care for your horse, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested to read…

Which rug should I put on my horse? H&H’s helpful guide to help you decide

How to wash your horse’s rugs at home – and what’s best to use

How to reproof your turnout rugs at home – and help them stay waterproof for longer

Types of rugs – your horse’s full wardrobe explained

A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

While rug technology has come a long way in recent years, the waterproof properties will inevitably deteriorate with time and wear, and being able to reproof horse rugs at home could save you a bit of money, too. Firstly because you may be able to save on sending them off to a professional, but it will also delay the need to buy new rug (although we’ve rounded up the best turnout rugs if you do).

Water-repellency won’t last forever. Over time, the original factory-applied water-repellency will wear off, but you shouldn’t throw your rugs away at this point, as you can clean them thoroughly and then re-add water-repellency, while maintaining breathability. If you’re feeling positively thrifty, here is our complete guide on how to reproof horse rugs…

How are rugs waterproofed?

The outer material of a rug is chosen because it is naturally durable, water-repellent and tightly woven together. It usually has another water-repellent coating applied to the outside, which is what makes the water bead up and roll off.

A waterproof membrane is then bonded to the inside of the fabric, which is what stops water getting through if it passes the outer protection. A good membrane not only stops water coming through but allows water vapour to exit, which is what makes the material breathable. How waterproof the rug remains, both initially and over time, depends a great deal on the quality of this membrane. While you can reapply the outer protection (following our instructions below), you cannot reapply this inner membrane.

The next step is seam sealing. When panels of fabric are stitched together it creates tiny holes that need to be sealed, so these are taped and heat sealed.

How waterproof a rug – or indeed a riding coat – is, can be measured by a hydrostatic pressure test and most manufacturers will list the result, for example, waterproof to 4,000mm.

There’s a common misconception that the less denier a rug has, the less waterproof it is – but this is not the case. Denier relates to how strong the fabric is, rather than how waterproof.

How to reproof horse rugs

1. Start with a clean rug

Cleaning is important when it comes to keeping your rugs in the best possible condition, but it also means that when you apply a waterproofing product, it can bond well to the rug as there isn’t dirt in the way. You can send it off to be done professionally, but you can also wash rugs at home.

Using the proper care products (such as Nikwax Rug Wash) and methods is important if you want to retain the waterproof properties. Many rug manufacturers provide cleaning instructions for each individual rug, and you should stick to these instructions as conventional detergents leave behind residues that harm water-repellency.

Some manufacturers recommend washing your rugs in a specially designed wash bag (like this one on Amazon), which can help to prevent the breakage of any straps, pockets, and buckles that are attached to the rug.

Never use fabric softener, as it strips off the waterproof coating applied to the material, and deteriorates the rug’s breathability, water-repellency, and wicking capabilities.

2. Use a reproofing spray or wash

There are many water repellent sprays, such as the Lincoln waterproofing aerosol, which will work best on small areas is are ideal for touching up over stitching. This can also be used on clothing.

Reproofing washes, such as Nikwax Rug Proof Wash-in Proofer and Grangers Rug Repel, are specifically formulated for reproofing horse rugs. They can be used in the washing machine, applied when washing by hand or applied with a sponge if you’re just doing small areas.

Professional rug cleaners recommend that you re-waterproof your rugs once each year using equestrian rug waterproofing agents. Alternatively, you can send your rugs to a rug cleaner and waterproofing specialist, where they will treat and repair your rugs for you.

Tips to keep rugs waterproof for longer

• Machine wash synthetic rugs with caution, following the rug manufacturer’s instructions as well as checking the capacity of your washing machine.
• Only use cold water when washing a synthetic rug to help prevent damaging the membrane – you will ruin the waterproofing entirely if you use hot or warm water
• Avoid using detergents or any type of chemical on synthetic waterproof rugs as this can damage the waterproofing membrane.
• Don’t use high pressure when washing your rugs as it will damage the rug pores and will allow water to leak through immediately.
• Never use a harsh bristled brush to scrub the outer denier, you can spike the membrane
• Allow damp or sweaty rugs to dry out as mould will eat away at the membrane over time.
• Avoid leaving rugs in direct sunlight when not in use as UV will eventually affect the lining over a long period of time
• Allow rugs to dry and cool down to room temperature for a few hours before storing.
• Once your rug is ready to be stored, folding them into large laundry bags (like these ones) will help to keep them clean, dry and secure.

How to check a rug is waterproof

The best way to check your rug is still waterproof is to use a sink or large tub, lay the rug over the top and create a small dip – ensure you choose an area of the rug with no fittings. Then pour a glass or two of water into the indent and allow the water to pool. The rug layer should hold the water and not allow any seepage to the inside.

• For unlimited access to advice on how best to care for your horse, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested in:

Which rug should I put on my horse? H&H’s helpful guide to help you decide

How to wash your horse’s rugs at home – and what’s best to use

How to make your horse’s rugs last longer with these useful DIY repair tips

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Wondering how to wash horse rugs at home? It’s one thing keeping them dry, but keeping your rugs clean in winter can be difficult, too, especially if you’re relying on an ordinary washing machine. Many owners opt for professional rug laundry services to wash their rugs, which is recommended on an annual basis (and the best time to do this is before you put them away after winter, but we can’t be that organised all the time).

However, if the cost outweighs the effort saved and you want your rug clean immediately, here’s how to wash horse rugs at home – plus, if you’re planning on repairing your rugs, too, it’s worth washing them first.

Can you wash rugs in a washing machine?

Absolutely, if your machine is large enough – just follow these simple steps to protect your machine and your rugs.

1. Check the capacity of your machine

Most rugs can be machine washed at home, but this depends on the capacity of your machine, so you’ll need to check the specification against the weight of rug. Providing the machine is large enough, you’ll need to take a few steps before bunging a hairy, muddy, manure-stained rug into the same machine you wash your own clothes in – not only for your clothes, but to protect your machine.

2. Remove as much hair, dirt and mud as you can

Blast it with the hose, or let it dry out and use a dandy brush and a bit of elbow grease to remove the mud on the outside, while a vacuum cleaner is good for removing the stubborn hair on the inside.

3. Use a wash bag for protection

Put your rug in a large wash bag, such as the LeMieux laundry bag (available on Amazon) or the Horsewear washbag (also on Amazon), to prevent the hooks and buckles from damaging your machine. It also prevents any remaining horsehair from lingering in the machine drum. These can also be used for washing saddle pads, boots and bandages, so are worth the investment.

4. Wash on cool

A 30°C cycle is best for your rugs – and if you’re using a good wash product this should be plenty.

How to wash waterproof turnout rugs

To protect your rug, remove any detergent build-up from your dispenser, and select a gentle delicate cycle. Do not use regular detergent or fabric conditioner as these may compromise the laminate waterproofing of the rug. Instead choose one for washing delicates, or a recommended rug cleaning product, such as Nikwax Rug Wash (available on Amazon), which is designed to clean and restore water repellency.

Hang the rug up to dry, rather than tumble-drying.

There will eventually come a time where your turnout needs reproofing, but you can also waterproof your horse rugs at home – here’s how.

How to wash stable rugs

Winter stable rugs tend to absorb moisture because they are not waterproof, hence they can get smelly. Instead. some owners opt for lightweight turnout rugs, designed to repel moisture, on their horses in the stable.

Stable stains on the “indoor” rug can then be scrubbed off without the lining getting wet. You can vary the warmth with thermal rugs or cotton sheets underneath, which are lightweight and easy to wash in an ordinary machine. This way the horses’ coats stay clean and the top rugs only need washing once at the end of winter.

Often, the whole rug might not need a wash, but one mucky area could do with a good blitz. Most horse owners steer clear of pale rugs for obvious reasons, but for the stable stains that won’t budge, it’s worth trying a stain remover designed for grass stains and so on, such as Vanish (available on Amazon). The best stain removers for horses can do a good job on fabric too.

If your washing machine is too small, or the rest of the family don’t appreciate sharing it with your horse, it might be time to invest in a small power washer. You can find them for well under £100, either in your local DIY store or online (like this one on Amazon). The force of the water blasts off all the mud and dirt, and if you have a few horses on the yard, it will pay for itself quickly. It will come in handy for cleaning stables, too.

Avoid using a pressure washer on your waterproof turnout rugs, however, as it could damage the waterproof fabric.

How to wash summer rugs

Fly rugs and summer sheets are the easiest to wash as they are usually lightweight, making them easier to fit in your machine at home. However, the products we use on horses in summer, particularly if they suffer from sweet itch, can cause these rugs to become oily and dirty quickly.

Summer rugs should be washed in the same way as the other rugs described, using a wash bag (like this one on Amazon) and rug wash (also available on Amazon) to protect your machine while restoring your rugs to their former glory.

• For unlimited access to advice on how best to care for your horse, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested in…

Which rug should I put on my horse? H&H’s helpful guide to help you decide

How to reproof your turnout rugs at home – and help them stay waterproof for longer

How to make your horse’s rugs last longer with these useful DIY repair tips

Not sure what rug to put on? An expert reveals how you could teach your horse to choose

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Equestrian brands Thermatex and Griffin NuuMed have stopped manufacturing, it is understood.

A UK stockist, Pioneer Endurance, shared the news on social media on Wednesday (12 November). H&H has attempted to contact both Thermatex and Griffin NuuMed via email and telephone, and parent company Baaj Capital. The brands’ websites are no longer live and it is understood that their factory, in Cardigan, Wales, closed on 7 November.

The news follows a rocky two years for the brands, which were originally manufactured by Vale Brothers. Thermatex is well known for its long-lasting cooler rugs, and Griffin NuuMed’s products included numnahs and saddle pads.

In September 2023 Vale Brothers announced it had gone into administration – putting 80 jobs at risk across Thermatex, Griffin NuuMed, Harry Dabbs and Jeffries Saddlery. At the time, managing director Mr Wilkes told H&H that this was owing to the effect Covid had had on the business, but also the Russia-Ukraine war; he said material costs had increased between 10 and 150% in 18 months, and on average 35%.

In March 2024 Vale Brothers was given a lifeline when it was bought by Jeffries Lifestyle Ltd – a holding company set up by Baaj Capital – and it was announced that the brands were secure and would continue to operate.

This summer, saddlery manufacturer Bliss of London acquired Jeffries Saddlery, Harry Dabbs and Vale Brothers – in a deal hoped to “give these brands the future they deserve” – but Thermatex and Griffin NuuMed were not part of this deal and continued to be owned by Jeffries Lifestyle Ltd.

Yesterday (13 November) H&H reported that manufacturer Charles Owen will stop UK production from 19 December, as a result of the lease on their Wrexham premises expiring. A Charles Owen spokesperson told H&H the decision had been “incredibly difficult” – but added that although UK production will cease, “we still have every intention to continue to sell our products to the UK and beyond”.

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested in:

Deal secures leading British equestrian brands to ‘give them the future they deserve’

‘We’re absolutely still in business’: sale secures future of major equestrian brands

Hopes to save jobs as major equestrian manufacturer files administration notice

Charles Owen update after shock news it will stop manufacturing in the UK

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

If there’s one topic of conversation I can guarantee I overhear at the yard on a daily basis, it’s “What rug are you putting on your horse?” – and I always refer them to our horse rugging guide. Non-horsey people would not believe the amount of time we all spend deciding what rug to put on our horses – or whether they even need a rug – especially when the temperatures are fluctuating.

Below is a guideline of when a horse is likely to need a rug, which you can use as a starting point for your decision making. When using this guide, consider a clipped horse to be one where the majority of the hair has been removed, such as in a full clip or hunter clip. A horse with a low trace clip or similar, that leaves much of the coat on the horse’s body, should be considered “unclipped”, especially if they are a good-doer or tend to be overweight.

Horse rugging guide based on temperature

If you are viewing this guide on a mobile, swipe left to see the full table

Horse in stable

Horse in field

Importance of rugging based on temperature

It’s easy to assume that if you want to wear a coat while you’re outside, then your horse would like to have a rug on, too. But this is not a good rule of thumb and vets have been warning for years about the dangers of over-rugging horses.

In the short term, over-rugging can lead to overheated horses and heatstroke. In the long term, if an obese horse is rugged too much it will prevent them from losing weight, which puts them at higher risk of laminitis.

Horses don’t feel the cold until a lower temperature than humans do. Research has shown this means a fit and healthy unclipped horse typically feels cold only when the temperature is below 0°C and they feel hot when it reaches 25°C. Humans have a much narrower thermoneutral zone of between 25–30°C. So when we think it’s cold outside, horses still feel quite comfortable.

Researchers in Norway have also been investigating whether it’s possible to teach a horse to choose a rug – and they found that it is.

Factors to consider when rugging a horse

For horses that are turned out, the weather plays a significant role in which rug they need. Wet and windy weather will have a chilling effect and those who are young or old are likely to be less able to maintain their body temperature in these conditions so that should be taken into account. But if shelter is available and the horses have access to plenty of forage, which helps keep them warm from the inside through the digestive process, they may still not need a rug even when temperatures drop.

When horses are stabled, however, while they may be more sheltered, they aren’t able to move around to warm up if they need to and so in some cases will need a heavier rug.

Before deciding which weight and type of rug to put on your horse, you need to consider all of the variables, such as their level of work, their feeding and stable management regimes, whether or not they are clipped (and, if so, what type of clip they have), the condition that they are in and their access to forage, plus obviously the weather, tailoring your decision to the individual horse’s needs.

It’s important to remember that every horse is different, and the more you get to know your horse, the less you’ll need to refer back to a horse rugging guide. My pony, for example, is a 17-year-old Fjord – his breed has evolved to thrive in the cold. I’ve had him 10 years and in that time the heaviest rug he’s owned is a 200g – and he’s fully clipped over winter.

He’s an exceptionally good-doer and I know exactly what temperature ranges and weather conditions warrant his rain sheet, 50g, 100g or 200g. However, I also know that as he ages I’ll have to keep an eye on how well he copes, and when I eventually retire him – and therefore don’t clip him – I’ll have to reconsider it all again.

You may also be interested in:

Not sure what rug to put on? An expert reveals how you could teach your horse to choose

When do horses feel the cold? Vet explains at what point your horse might need a rug

How to reproof your turnout rugs at home – and help them stay waterproof for longer

How to wash your horse’s rugs at home – and what’s best to use

How to make your horse’s rugs last longer with these useful DIY repair tips

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The best summer sheets for horses are designed to be worn out in the field when the weather is warm to protect your horse from the sun. Some of these rugs also offer protection from light showers like a no-fill rain sheet, but are made of a highly breathable fabric to prevent your horse from overheating.

Using a summer sheet can help to protect your horse from coat bleaching, sunburn (which is most common in horses with lighter coats or pink skin) and other sun-related illnesses, as summer sheets for horses offer a higher level of UV protection than most of the best fly rugs.

Best summer sheets for horses

LeMieux Arika Sunstopper Cooler Sheet

Colours: Stone

Sizes: 4ft9in – 7ft3in

UV protection: 98%

RRP: £99.95

The lightweight 450D ripstop upper blocks 98% of the sun’s rays, while the breathable micro-mesh lower section enhances airflow and shields against flies and insects. Features include a 45° angled T-bar front closure, patented two-part skirt, antibacterial and anti-static lining, plus a detachable neck.

WeatherBeeta Kool Coat Cotton Airstream II Detach-A-Neck

Colours: White/mint

Sizes: 5ft – 7ft

UV protection: 90%+

RRP: £74.99

This breathable and cool summer sheet with mesh panelling is a perfect alternative to a traditional mesh fly rug that protects your horse from flies and midges as well as harmful UV rays, offering 90%+ UV protection. The shoulders and mane and tail areas are lined to prevent rubbing. The rug fastens with a twin buckle chest strap, hidden adjustable surcingles, a ski clip closure on the detachable neck, and removable leg straps.

Horseware Amigo Summer Sheet Plus

Colours: Navy check/titanium grey and silver

Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft3in

UV protection: 95%

RRP: From £103.95

This water-resistant and lightweight summer sheet is made from a durable polyester and cotton blend. It offers 95% UV protection, while also providing a layer of defence against flies and summer irritants. Features include a detachable hood, keg arches and adjustable surcingles for freedom of movement.

The rug is one of only two in this guide that are showerproof.

Masta Fieldmasta Fly Rug Combo

Colours: White/blue

Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft6in

UV protection: 98%+

RRP: £99.99

This sheet can also double up as a fly rug. It has a polyester upper that provides more than 98% UV protection, while the heavyweight mesh panels allow for airflow and give protection from flies. The rug fastens with twin adjustable front clips, adjustable surcingles and leg straps. It has a unique domed neck design to help prevent mane loss and large leg gussets for freedom of movement.

Weatherbeeta Hybrid Seasons Combo Neck

Colours: White/maroon

Sizes: 4ft – 7ft3in

UV protection: 95%+

RRP: £99.99

This summer sheet is made from a water resistant 600D polyester fabric, offering protection during light rain showers and providing 95%+ UV protection. It’s shaped to fit your horse and has a wither relief pad for additional comfort, while the shoulders, mane area and full-wrap tail flap are lined to prevent rubbing. The rug fastens with a twin buckle chest strap, has cross surcingles and elasticated, removable leg straps, plus two touch-tape tabs on the neck.

The rug is one of only two in this guide that are showerproof.

Horseware Rambo Optimo Supreme Summer Sheet Plus

Colours: Navy check/thunderstorm grey and silver

Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft3in

UV protection: 90%

RRP: From £147.95

This UV-protective summer sheet is made from a polycotton outer fabric that is designed for breathability and comfort. The bib front closure is adjustable to alleviate pressure points, and the very long shoulder gusset and dual leg arches offer a greater freedom of movement. The detachable hood is lined and elongated to provide extra coverage.

There is also lining at the shoulders and under the extra-long tail flap to prevent rubbing. It is fastened with three straight adjustable surcingles and features a tail strap to provide extra security.

WeatherBeeta Kool Coat Airstream III Combo Summer Sheet

Colours: White/navy

Sizes: 5ft – 7ft

UV protection: 90%+

RRP: £54.99

This rug is made of a strong and lightweight polyester outer, and has polyester lined shoulders to help prevent rubbing . It offers 90%+ UV protection and is quite traditional in design. It features traditional shoulder gussets, twin adjustable buckle front closure, low cross surcingles, has a large tail flap and adjustable, removable leg straps.

How to choose a summer sheet

When choosing a summer sheet, look for styles made from a lightweight material, such as polycotton. This material is also highly breathable, which will help to keep your horse cool in the sun. Some styles will also feature mesh sections to maximise airflow.

The best summer sheets are versatile and can also be used while travelling or in the stable in place of a travel rug, show rug or stable sheet. They are also really useful for protecting your horse’s coat from dust and dirt, which is handy prior to a competition.

Most summer sheets aren’t suitable for use in wet weather – if it’s wet and warm, you’re better off protecting your horse with one of the best waterproof fly rugs. However, if UV protection is particularly important to you, there are a small number that have a water-resistant top.

Do horses need UV protection?

Like humans, horses can get sunburnt and develop other skin issues as a result of UV rays. Protecting your horse against the sun is vital during the summer months, and a combination of good management and physical barriers to block UV will help to minimise the risks. Not all fly rugs and the best summer sheets for horses offer the same UV protection, but we’ve highlighted the level of protection each rug offers in this guide.

How does UV affect horses?

UV stands for ultraviolet – and UV radiation is a type of energy produced by the sun. UV is the best natural source of vitamin D, but too much UV exposure can cause problems, such as sunburn. While you can feel the heat from the sun, UV rays are not detectable. It’s important to protect your horse as you will only notice the effects once the damage has been done. The main ways UV affects horses include:

1. Coat bleaching – Colour change is a result of too much sun exposure; this is more common in darker coloured horses and will show up as lighter coloured patches. It can also affect manes and tails.

2. Sunburn – The sun’s rays can penetrate your horse’s coat and reach their skin. Horses with little or no pigmentation, such as greys or palominos, are more prone to sunburn. White markings and legs can also be affected so the use of fly leg boots can help protect from UV and pesky flies.

3. Photosensitivity – This is a light sensitivity issue, which can resemble sunburn but it is caused internally. Certain grass, feeds and medication release photodynamic compounds inside the horse, which then react with UV light. It can leas to blistered, itch, flaky skin.

You might also like:

Tried and tested sun creams for protecting your horse’s pink skin this summer

How to avoid your horse suffering from sunburn this summer

12 of the best waterproof fly rugs – perfect for summer showers and sunshine

Fly protection on a budget: 6 fly rugs under £50

12 of the best fly rugs that offer horses extra protection from summer pests

Find the perfect fly mask to keep your horse comfortable all summer long

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

The best magnetic rugs for horses have been popular for many years now, as have massage and other therapy rugs, and the best magnetic boots, chaps and wraps. There are a range of therapeutic benefits that come with each type of rug and some combine two types of therapy. They all have a slightly different function and some require power to work, which leads to a wide range of price points. They’re all designed to be used by normal horse owners, and the best magnetic rugs for horses will come with instructions so you can be sure you’re using it correctly.

Best therapy and magnetic rugs for horses

Bucas Therapy Cooler Rug

Type: Natural magnetic field reflection

Sizes: 5ft 6in – 7ft

RRP: £192

Made of extremely fine stainless steel mesh lining, the Bucas Therapy material reflects the magnetic fields within your horse’s body, which stimulates blood circulation and oxygen flow. This helps to reduce swelling and inflammation, so are ideal for use pre- and post-exercise. It can be used on a sweaty or wet horse as the “Stay-Dry” qualities will dry the horse, while enjoying the soothing relief of the therapeutic fabric.

It features attachment points at the neck and rear D-ring, so it can be used and secured under another Bucas rug. Also available as a lightweight turnout rug or medium weight turnout rug.

Horseware Ionic Therapy Mesh Cooler

Type: Infrared

Sizes: 5ft 6in – 7ft 3in

RRP: £125.95

This rug from Horseware incorporates ceramic minerals during the yarn extrusion process, resulting in superior far infrared emissivity that won’t wash out. This technology produces gentle radiant heat that has been shown to penetrate beneath the skin to help increase circulation, activating the body’s natural healing process.

The breathable scrim mesh outer allows for maximum airflow, while the ceramic-infused liner reflects body heat back as far infrared rays. Neck cover fixings allow for extended coverage. Neck cover sold separately. Comes with a two-year warranty. The Horseware Iconic collection also includes a stable rug and turnout rug.

LeMieux Conductive Magno Rug

Type: Magnetic

Sizes: M or L

RRP: £299.95

This LeMieux rug has inner liners that are made with a woven layer of steel fibres that conduct magnetic waves around the lining. The 2,600 Gauss twin magnets that are strategically placed over the shoulder, elbow, hip, stifle and gaskin. The breathable 3D mesh top side releases any heat build up from the magnets, while the lightweight mesh of the lower section encourages the air flow up. The three-way adjustable belly straps ensure a close, secure fit for maximum effect.

Veredus Magnetik Rug

Type: Magnetic

Sizes: S, M or L

RRP: £453

This breathable rug from Veredus is equipped with 32 neodymium magnets that develop a power of 2,400 Gauss each. The magnets are distributed across the shoulders, back and hind end, and are designed to stimulate circulation and prepare muscles and tendons for exercise. It is designed to be used alone or under another rug if it’s cold.

Protechmasta Infrared Fixed-Neck Rug

Type: Infrared

Sizes: 4ft 6in – 7ft 6in

RRP: £189

This Mastacare rug uses far infrared radiation to gently increase blood flow, remove toxins and promote healing. It can be used before work to prepare the muscles for exercise, but most importantly after work to help reduce lactic acid build up and aid the repair process. You can leave your horse to wear this rug unattended.

Premier Equine Magni-Teque Rug

Type: Magnetic

Sizes: 5ft 6in – 7ft

RRP: £185

This mesh rug from Premier Equine has 238 600 Gauss magnets stitched into it around the main muscle groups – 164 magnets in the rug and 74 in the neck. You can gradually build up to using it for four hours a day – before exercise to help warm your horse up and after exercise to ensure they cool down slowly. It has antibacterial nylon lining at the wither and shoulders, and comes in a reusable zip-fastened storage bag to keep your tack room tidy.

Felix Bühler Ceramic Rehab Liner and Stable Rug

Type: Ceramic fabric

Sizes: 5ft 6in – 7ft

RRP: £89.90

This therapeutic stable rug from Kramer can be used pre- and post-exercise or while your horse is resting in the stable. It has a coat-friendly lining, which reflects the horses’ own body heat in the form of infrared radiation, thus providing a comfortable climate and preventing and relieving muscle tension. The rug has a 100g polyfill, extra-high side gussets for freedom of movement, and a t-hook front closure. This rug can also be used as a regular stable rug with an elasticated surcingle and a fillet string.

Equine Magnetix Magnetic rug and neck set

Type: Magnetic

Colours: Blue or navy

Sizes: 5ft – 7ft 3in

RRP: £343

This rug from Equine Magnetix is made from lightweight mesh material with more than 100 2,000 Gauss neodymium magnets – 80 magnets in the rug and 32 in the neck. It covers all major muscle groups and can be used for long periods of time and overnight. It can be used on its own or under another rug. You can also purchase the rug and neck cover separately.

FMBs Combi Pro II rug

Type: Magnetic and massage

Sizes: Pony, standard or extra large

RRP: £4,400

This dual therapy rug from FMBs combines pulsed electromagnetic therapy and deep massage, which can be used simultaneously. It covers the main muscle groups and can be used daily to support performance as part of your warm up and cool down routine. It can be used as part of a rehabilitation or general maintenance program.

The rug is battery operated and incorporates 14 massage modules and 14 pulsed electromagnetic copper coils. It is operated via a control box – the magnetic field can reach 80 Gauss, while the degree of vibration massage can be chosen to offer an individual solution. Comes with a two-year warranty.

What does a magnetic rug do?

All cells in your horse’s body have electromagnetic properties, which means they can be energised by a magnetic field. When a powerful magnet is placed against the body, cellular activity is increased, which can increase the rate at which cells regenerate and repair. It can help to encourage blood flow and increases cellular activity in the body but it’s important to understand that the magnets themselves do not heal.

Magnetic therapy is reported to help…

• maintain circulation
• reduce muscle tension
• aid recovery of muscle fatigue
• improve oxygen supply to tissues

How long can you leave a magnetic rug on a horse?

Every rug is different. Some rugs require that your horse be supervised while he’s wearing it, while with others you’ll need to build up the time gradually. The best magnetic rugs for horses should come with instructions and guidance.

You might also like:

Magnetic boots, bandages, bands, chaps and wraps – all for your horse

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9 travel rugs worth adding to your horse’s wardrobe

Are you on the search for a new travel rug for your horse? Check out this selection of the best

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Heavyweight turnout rugs are an essential item in any clipped horse’s winter wardrobe. Heavyweights typically have 300g+ of insulation, so are not needed until the temperature really drops or your horse feels the cold.

We’ve put a selection of heavyweight turnout rugs to help keep your horse warm and comfortable during winter turnout. They start at 300g fill, but some are compatible with liners so you can increase the fill to suit your horse if needed. If you are looking for a rug with less fill take a look at our best medium weight turnout rug and lightweight turnout rug guides.

Best heavyweight turnout rugs: H&H’s quick guide

Best heavyweight turnout rug for a rug-wrecker: Bucas Power Extra Turnout

Best heavyweight turnout rug with a detachable neck: WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Plus Dynamic II Heavy

Best value heavyweight turnout rug: Rhinegold Aspen

Best heavyweight turnout rug for a broad fit: Premier Equine Titan

Best heavyweight turnout rug for tiny ponies: Swish Equestrian 300g

Best heavyweight turnout rugs for every budget

Bucas Power Extra Turnout

Fill: 300g

Style: Detachable or high neck

Outer: 1680D

Sizes: 5ft – 7ft2in

Colours: Silver

RRP: £258 (detachable), £276 (high neck) £99 (neck cover)

Reasons to buy

• Really strong outer denier
• Can be used on a damp horse
• Heat reflective inner coating

Reasons to avoid

• The neck cover is sold separately making the initial outlay for the rug and neck cover pricey

The Bucas Power 300g Turnout Rug has a waterproof 1680D ballistic nylon outer; this material is durable and less prone to tearing making it ideal for those rug wreckers. It features a heat-reflective aluminium inner coating, which combined with the sun reflective outer, extends the temperature range in which the Power Turnout can be used and keeps your horse cosy and warm.

It also has a Stay-Dry antibacterial lining which means the rug can be put on a damp horse the same way as you would a cooler rug. This lining will quickly dry the horse and can be left on, thus avoiding extra rug changes and saving time! It fastens at the chest with a magnetic snap-lock T-bar closure, has shoulder darts, generous tail flap, cross surcingles and a deluxe tail cord, Compatible with Bucas liners and neck covers, which are available separately.

Also available with the same features with 0g or 150g fill.

WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Plus Dynamic II Heavy

Fill: 360g

Style: Detachable neck

Outer: 1200D

Sizes: 4ft – 7ft3in

Colours: Maroon

RRP: £164.99

Reasons to buy

• Really strong outer denier
• Liner compatible

Reasons to avoid

• If you are looking for a fixed neck design

This rug features a memory foam wither relief pad that contours to the horse’s shape and lifts the rug off the wither to reduce rubbing and provide added comfort, a quick clip front closure offering maximum adjustability and an extra-large tail flap for maximum protection.

It also has reflective strips to make your horse easier to spot in the dark, traditional side gussets for natural movement, low cross surcingles and elasticated, adjustable and removable leg straps for a secure and comfortable fit. WeatherBeeta offers a three-year warranty on hardware, waterproofness and breathability on turnouts.

Also available with the same features with 0g fill, 100g fill or 220g fill, and is compatible with the WeatherBeeta liner system so you can increase the fill weight if you need to add extra warmth.

H&H’s senior news writer Becky Murray tested the medium weight version of this rug and awarded it H&H Approved – she was very impressed with it’s durability and it kept her horse dry and warm throughout the test – read the full WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Plus Dynamic II review.

Rhinegold Aspen Turnout

Fill: 350g

Style: Fixed neck

Outer: 1000D

Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft3in

Colours: Black

RRP: £82.95

Reasons to buy

• If you’re looking for a rug with more than 300g fill
• Available in a good range of sizes

Reasons to avoid

• Fixed neck design might not be suitable

This Rhinegold turnout has a ripstop, waterproof and breathable outer, with a breathable nylon lining. It is fastened with double chest straps and features front shoulder gusset, cross surcingles with strengthened guides, legstraps and tail guard. The fixed neck cover is fastened with easy and quick loop through touch tape fastenings and strengthened surcingle guides.

Premier Equine Titan Turnout with Snug-Fit Neck Cover

Fill: 300g

Style: Detachable neck

Outer: 1680D

Sizes: 5ft – 7ft3in

Colours: Brown or Black

RRP: £232

Reasons to buy

• Really strong outer denier
• Provides good coverage
• Extra protection due to added features

Reasons to avoid

• Higher price tag but worth the investment

Created from 1680D ballistic nylon, with a teflon coating applied to the outer fabric for stain resistance and moisture protection. The dual-membrane design enhances the rug’s waterproof capabilities and protects the 300g fill, extending the rug’s use. It is designed so the neckline falls comfortably in front of the shoulder for a comfortable fit. Features a mid-height elasticated shoulder gusset, double quick release chest clip closures, low cross surcingles, PVC coated tail strap, detachable leg straps and a large lengthened tail flap. Included is a detachable snug fit neck cover with an elasticated poll for a closer fit and the rug is compatible with Premier equine liners allowing you to quickly adapt the rug according to your horse’s needs.

I use Premier Equine rugs on my 17hh Irish Draught and found they come up big in size so I always buy a size down in this brand for him. Georgia has found the same when shopping for her 13.3hh Fjord. I love the fit and coverage their rugs offer him. I really like the full length Velcro at the front to keep the rug from turning back on itself on his chest. The neck covers easily attach with strong velcro and I have never had a problem with them rubbing his mane. The self-righting technology is ideal for when he is turned out for longer periods. I also find the liners easy to attach and great if you need to add a bit of extra weight to the rug.

Swish Equestrian 300g Turnout

Fill: 300g

Style: Detachable neck

Outer: 1200D

Sizes: 4ft3in – 7ft6in

Colours: Turquoise

RRP: £109.99

Reasons to buy

• Really strong outer denier
• Liner compatible
• Neck cover included

Reasons to avoid

• Clip front fastenings might not suit everyone

This 1200D turnout from Swish is compatible with Swish rug liners and comes with a detachable neck cover that fastens with two double-locking Velcro straps. It is designed to sit higher on the neck and shoulders to prevent the rug from slipping back and rubbing. It has reflective strips on the front, rear and tail flap, as well as large shoulder gussets, cross surcingles, a tail flap and removable, elasticated leg straps.

Also available with the same features with 0g, 50g, 100g, 200g, 360g or 450g fill. Compatible liners in a range of weights.

The lightweight version of this turnout rug was tested by international para dressage rider and trainer Tasmin Addison and her team – read the full Swish turnout rug review.

Shires Highlander Original 300 Turnout Combo

Fill: 300g

Style: Standard neck, combo or detachable

Outer: 600D

Sizes: 5ft – 7ft3in

Colours: Green

RRP: £73.99 (standard), £83.99 (combo), £91.99 (detachable)

Reasons to buy

• Durable Waterproof Repellent (DWR) finish prevents saturation
• Liner compatible

Reasons to avoid

• If your horse is a rug wrecker you will need a higher denier outer

This Shires turnout features twin quick clip chest fastenings, adjustable cross surcingles and fillet strap. It is fully lined with taped seams and is compatible with Shires WarmaRug liners. The rug is also PFC-free, which means the water-repellent finish outer offers sustainable protection without the use of environmentally harmful PFCs.

Also available with the same features with 0g, 50g, 100g or 200g fill.

Gallop Trojan Combo Turnout

Fill: 350g

Style: Fixed neck

Outer: 600D

Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft

Colours: Navy

RRP: £59.99

Reasons to buy

• Cheaper option

Reasons to avoid

• If you don’t need a rug with 350g fill

This combo turnout from Gallop has a ripstop outer and nylon lining. It is fastened with double adjustable front buckles, adjustable cross surcingles and features elasticated breakaway detachable leg straps, should pleat to reduce rubbing and a tail flap. Ideal for horses who need more insulation to keep them warm.

Mackey Lugnaquilla Plus

Fill: 360g

Style: Combo or high neck

Outer: 1680D

Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft

Colours: Black

RRP: £152.25 (combo) £137.50 (high neck)

Reasons to buy

• Really strong outer denier
• Adjustable features to get a good fit

Reasons to avoid

• If you’re looking for a standard neck

With a strong ballistic outer and polyester anti-rub lining, this rug is described as waterproof and breathable. It features a double buckle and clip front fastening, shoulder gussets, detachable leg straps and reflective strips on the front, back and tail flap.

LeMieux Kudos Thermo Layer Turnout Rug

Fill: 300g

Style: Detachable neck

Outer: 1680D

Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft

Colours: Navy

RRP: £229.95

Reasons to buy

• Really strong outer denier
• Liner compatible
• Provides good coverage

Reasons to avoid

• Higher price tag but worth the investment

This rug focuses on warmth where it’s needed the most while reducing bulky rugging. It’s designed to protect key muscle groups yet versatile for cross-seasonal wear. With 300g fill it is cleverly quilted to concentrate over your horse’s topline, then a layer of 150g fill extends further, to wrap around the horses sides while a single layer of 100g fill runs down to the hemline to prevent unnecessary bulk.

It features a silky antibacterial, antistatic lining to efficiently self-right in any weather. A two-part skirt system, patented angled T-bar front closure system. It also features three cross-surcingles with removable central strap, extended shoulder gusset, elasticated leg straps, PVC coated fillet strap and detachable neck cover.

Compatible with LeMieux liners 100g or 200g sold separately to layer up the rug to the desired weight for your horse. Also available with the same features with 100g fill.

Masta Ventomasta Heavyweight Combo Turnout

Fill: 300g

Style: Fixed neck

Outer: 600D

Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft6in

Colours: Green

RRP: £105

Reasons to buy

• Wide range of sizes
• Anti-rub lining

Reasons to avoid

• If you’re looking for a higher denier outer

This rug is made from a 600D ripstop, waterproof and breathable fabric. It has taped seams, anti-rub polyester lining, front twin surcingle fastenings, adjustable cross surcingles and fillet string. The rug also features shoulder gussets and ergonomic neck insert for freedom of movement while grazing.

Also available in 0g or 200g fill with the same features.

Hy StormX Empra 300 Combi Turnout

Fill: 300g

Style: Combi

Outer: 600D

Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft3in

Colours: Red

RRP: £87.99

Reasons to buy

• Wide size range
• Integrated neck cover

Reasons to avoid

• Buckle clip chest fastening might not suit everyone

Designed using a waterproof and ripstop 600D outer material, this rug features a 300g fill to keep your horse snug, plus an integrated contour neck cover for extra protection. It is also lined with a smooth and breathable lining to offer optimum comfort and is complete with adjustable cross surcingles, twin buckle clip chest fastenings and adjustable leg straps to keep the rug securely in place. It is finished with reflective StormX logo for added visibility and a generous tail flap for extra protection.

Also available in 50g, 100g or 200g fill.

Horseware Amigo Bravo 12 Plus Turnout

Fill: 400g

Style: Detachable neck

Outer: 1200D

Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft3in

Colours: Green, shadow, navy or black

RRP: £189.95

Reasons to buy

• Neck cover included
• Extended belly coverage
• Two year warranty

Reasons to avoid

• If you’re not looking for a rug with 400g fill

The heavyweight turnout rug has a strong 1200D polyester waterproof and breathable outer. Detachable neck cover included with a contoured design, V-Front Closure and leg arches combine to alleviate pressure points and restriction and offer greater freedom of movement and better fit with extended belly coverage. With three straight adjustable surcingles provide a snug, adjustable and safe fit.

Also features reflective strips for increased visibility, a silky-feel shine-enhancing lining and a wipe-clean tail cord. Plus, it is compatible with Horseware’s extensive range of liners enabling you to upgrade on warmth as and when needed. All Horseware products come with a two year warranty if deemed faulty at the point of purchase.

Also available with the same features in 0g, 100g or 25og and as a standard neck (original) in 100g or 25og.

How to choose the best heavyweight turnout rug

Selecting the right rug for your horse involves careful consideration, especially regarding rug weight and weather protection to ensure your new rug meets your horses specific needs. Manufactures are innovating and introducing new features to their rug ranges all the time so it’s important to understand how these can improve your horse. There’s a lot to consider when choosing a rug. Think about the…

• Weight – the fill of the rug determines how warm it is. How much filling do you need?
• Denier – measures the strength of the outer fabric. If your horse is a rug wrecker, or is turned out with one, you will need to look for a higher denier of 1200 or more
• Neck – standard, detachable, combo (fixed) or half neck. Do you need a neck cover?
• Extra features – do you have a preferred type of lining? Do you like detachable leg straps? Or would the rug benefit from reflective strips?

A popular choice for some owners are turnout rugs with the fixings for liners so you have the option to be able to add additional liners to the rug to increase the weight throughout the year offering a flexible cost-effective way of rugging your horse, this means you could use a combination of a lighter weight turnout rug with rug liners to add warmth to make it a heavyweight rug.

The best heavyweight turnout rugs will not only keep your horse warm, but will protect him from the elements, whether it be heavy rain, wind or snow. Many heavyweights come with fixed necks. For an in-depth guide to choosing the best heavyweight option for your horse, check out our expert guide to buying a new turnout rug.

What is a turnout rug?

Turnout rugs are designed to keep horses warm and dry by protecting them from the harsher elements, such as rain, cold, wind and snow allowing your horse to enjoy time outdoors. Turnout rugs have a waterproof and breathable outer layer to help keep your horse dry during wet weather. Turnout rugs come in different thicknesses and weights of polyfill to provide varying levels of warmth and protection

What weight turnout rug does my horse need?

The weight of turnout rug your horse needs is completely dependent on the temperature, your horse’s environment, their physiology. Here’s some more information about what rug your horse needs.

You might also like:

A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

Best medium weight turnout rugs for chillier days

From racoons to tractors and Thelwell ponies – here’s 33 patterned rugs you’ll want to kit your horse out in

9 winter riding coats we’ve tried, tested and awarded H&H Approved status

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Finding the best anti-rub vests for horses to go under your horse’s stable rug or turnout rug can be the difference between him having a bald chest (and you pulling your own hair out in the process) and being able to rug him without worry.

A lot of anti-rub vests for horses on the market are quite similar when it comes to materials and coverage. So when considering the different options out there we really took into consideration how practical each vest was to live with long-term.

Our reviewers used these vests on their own horses and gave extra weighting to vests that were easy to clean, durable and, most importantly, stayed in place.

If you’re looking for something that does more than just prevent rubs, check out the best hoods for horses, which also help protect the mane from rubbing and keep your horse clean before a show.

Best anti-rub vests for horses: H&H’s quick guide

Best value anti-rub vest: Snuggy Hoods Shoulder Guard

Best anti-rub vest for non-conventional sized horses: Bossy’s Bib

Best anti-rub vest for horses who need extra padding: Supreme Products Padded Bib

Best anti-rub vest for horses who overheat: LeMieux Anti-Rub Bib

Snuggy Hoods Shoulder Guard

Colours: Navy

Sizes: XS–XXL

H&H Rating: 10/10, H&H Approved

Reasons to buy

• Cost-effective
• Straightforward, and very easy to use
• Can be used on a wet horse

Reasons to avoid

• No additional fastenings, so although it didn’t move too much in testing it will move with the rug it’s attached to

This vest delivers exactly as promised, offering reliable protection under any rug or hood. It includes a loop at the chest to secure it to the rug but doesn’t require any additional clips, straps, or buckles.

It was tested for H&H by international dressage rider Rob Waine, who said: “It fitted really well and prevented any rubbing. I can’t fault it in its performance. It did the job and was easy to use — and really fantastic value!” Rob added.

Read H&H’s independent Snuggy Hoods Shoulder Guard review.

Bossy’s Bib

Colours: Black, navy, white, burgundy or bottle green

Sizes: 9 size options or can be made to measure

H&H Rating: 8/10

Reasons to buy

• Can be made to measure
• Bespoke offerings for non-standard sizings
• High-quality material, good for horses with sensitive skin

Reasons to avoid

• Front-tab could be more robust

This simple bib is made of hardwearing material, washes well and is more than effective.

“The tab at the front looked like it might come off with longer use,” Rob noted when testing the product. Although the need didn’t arise to test it, Bossy Bib’s also offer an alteration service. On request, they also can provide bibs with velcro front fastenings for head shy horses and made to measure bibs for Arabs, miniatures and other non-standard sizes.

The silky breathable layer can be worn under stable or turnout rugs and is available in a wide range of colours and sizes.

Read H&H’s independent Bossy’s Bib review.

Supreme Products Padded Bib

Colours: Black

Sizes: XS–XL

Reasons to buy

• Really good wither protection
• Allows good range of movement
• Extra padding makes it good for skinnier horses

Reasons to avoid

• Higher price point

This premium, triple-layered bib from Supreme Products will protect the withers, shoulders and chest area. It has a satin outer and inner that smoothes the coat, with a padded foam inner for comfort and protection. It is exceptionally light and comfortable and will moves with the horse. It’s especially good at provided a bit of bulk for horses who’ve lost a bit of weight and whose rugs slip back as a result.

LeMieux Anti-Rub Bib

Colours: Black

Sizes: XXS–XXL

Reasons to buy

• Roomier fit
• Breathable, good for horses who overheat
• Wither protection

Reasons to avoid

• Costly, but the added features are worth it

This LeMieux bib is made from friction-free polyester combined with four-way stretch bamboo chest and a merino wither guard. I’ve used this bib on one of my own horses and can attest that it works well. However, what really drew me to this one was the roomier fit. My horse was quite sensitive to heat, and this fit and fabric allowed greater airflow and didn’t seem to irritate him as much. While it is a looser fit, it fastens across the girth area and has a front tab so stays nicely in place.

WeatherBeeta Stretch Shoulder Guard

Colours: Navy or black

Sizes: Pony – full

H&H Rating: 9/10, H&H Approved

Reasons to buy

• Nice, thicker material
• It washes well
• No additional or unnecessary straps

Reasons to avoid

• The full-size might be too tight on some plus-sized horses

This Weatherbeeta shoulder guard is very easy to use. It’s a very snug fit and simply slips over the head and attaches at the girth area with touch tape. If you have a smaller or larger horse, try the quilted version, which offers more size options.

“It was really easy to put on, and is a great option if you want a thicker material,” said Rob.

Read H&H’s independent WeatherBeeta Stretch Shoulder Guard review.

Shires Anti-Rub Stretch Vest

Colours: Black

Sizes: Pony – extra-full

Reasons to buy

• Easy to fit, and fits as expected
• Allows good range of movement
• Very soft material

Reasons to avoid

• Might not fit very small, or very large horses

This Shires vest is simple to fit and is made from a stretchy fabric, goes on over the horse’s head and is secured using an elasticated velcro surcingle that fastens round the girth area. Although it’s another with quite a snug fit, the material is soft and doesn’t restrict the horse’s if you get the right size. The Velcro strap will need to be kept clean for long-term use and the seam at the wither might irritate some horses.

Masta Stretch Shoulder Bib

Colours: Burgundy

Sizes: S–XL

Reasons to buy

• Wide cut at the base of the neck
• Ease of use
• Breathable

Reasons to avoid

• Sizes don’t cover ponies under 12hh or horses over 17hh

Another straightforward, over-the-head, snug bib. It has a nice wide cut at the base of the neck which makes it a good option for horses with a big chest. It fits really well and is made from a friction-free material. It fits true to size, although for horses between sizes we recommend sizing up.

Why do horses get rug rubs?

Horses can get rubbed by their rugs for a number of reasons, but the main problem is poor fit. A rug can rub if it’s too tight or too loose and this is common on the shoulders and chest, so rugs often have silky linings to reduce the friction – or you have the option of using anti-rub vests designed for horses. A rug that sits heavily on the withers can also rub, which is why many rugs feature designs that help to relieve pressure in this area.

How do I stop my horse rubbing his chest?

Start by ensuring their rug fits well, with no tightness around the chest and shoulders. Using anti-rub vests for horses or a shoulder guard made from a soft material will reduce friction. Regular grooming helps remove dirt and loose hair that can cause irritation, while adding fleece liners or padding in problem areas can provide extra protection. It’s also helpful to rotate rugs and use lighter ones when possible. Finer coats are more susceptible to rubbing under heavier rugs. Lastly, monitor your horse’s skin for any signs of irritation and treat any sore spots promptly to prevent further rubbing.

How do you get rid of rubs on horses?

First identify and remove the cause of the rub, such as an ill-fitting rug or tack. Gently clean the affected area, then apply a soothing cream like aloe vera or a skin balm to promote healing. Allow the skin time to recover by minimising the use of rugs or equipment on the irritated spot. To prevent future rubs, ensure all gear fits properly and consider using anti-rub vests or fleece-lined rugs for added protection for tour horses. Monitor the rubs for signs of infection, and consult a vet if needed.

You might also be interested in:

7 hoods that will protect your grooming efforts

A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

10 stable rugs your horse will thank you for

Best medium weight turnout rugs for chillier days

How to prevent your horse’s mane being lost this winter and ways to aid its regrowth

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Heaving wet rugs across the yard and attempting to dry them in freezing conditions can prompt a flurry of expletives. But is there an easier way? We ask you for your secrets on winter rug hacks…

1. “Keeping coats and manes clean and generously covered in mane and tail conditioner seems to prevent rubbing of manes and shoulders when horses wear more rugs. I use Rambo rugs because they are a great fit — especially round the front — and are good quality, lasting a long time. I tend to put a thin summer sheet on under the rugs, because they are easy to chuck in the washing machine and it means the heavier rugs don’t get greasy and don’t need washing so often” — grand prix dressage rider Matt Burnett

2. “Buy a pack of lamb castration rubber rings to put on the ‘T’ clips on cross-surcingles so they won’t come undone” — international dressage rider and trainer Stef Eardley from Gloucestershire

3. “The best rug dryer for a turnout rug that is wet but not soaked through is the horse that wears it! Just leave it on in the stable overnight and it will be dry in the morning and not hang round the yard damp for days.

“Keep cable ties and bailing twine handy for impromptu repairs on rugs in an emergency — you can cable tie a leg strap to its clip if it breaks and use a spare trigger clip and bailing twine as a leg strap.

“Get your rug mender to make you spare leg straps with a loop at one end and clip on the other, so you can swap them when broken” — Wolverhampton vet and racehorse trainer Sue Taylor

4. “Thin plastic tube over the fillet string means you can wipe them clean. Gaffer tape is a good emergency solution for rug rips — it’s waterproof and will hold the rip together for a day or so until you can get it repaired. I’ve found the best rugs are Rambo, Rhino and Weatherbeeta — they never leak and last for years. Bossy’s Bibs are excellent at preventing rug rubs on fine-skinned or clipped horses” — Musselburgh-based Sarah Hawes, who enjoys hacking and unaffiliated dressage

5. “I keep some denim iron-on repair patches handy for rug tears. Ease the patch inside the tear with the adhesive side up, place the tear neatly over the patch so that edges are as close as possible, place a cloth over the area being mended, hold the iron down over the cloth for the designated time and the result is a neat repair.

“Another tip is using dental floss to sew up tears and patches in rugs — it’s strong, waterproof and easy to sew through thick rug materials” — June Craig, dressage rider from Scotland

6. “If they come in with their rugs plastered in mud, leave the rug on and hose the mud off. Rugs dry quicker clean than with mud on” — Catherine Foley, West Midlands

7. “If you’re struggling for somewhere to hang wet and muddy rugs, buy a piece of PVC downpipe from your local DIY store and slot it over a piece of wood or baling twine and then hang it from the beams of the stable or barn using more baling twine. Simply throw your rugs over when wet and then slide them off easily when dry” — event rider Rosemary Myers from Derbyshire

8. “I buy carabiner snap clips to use on leg straps when their clips break. They are cheap and easy to fit.

“I use Shires Typhoon rugs on my four horses all winter in New Zealand; we get pretty cold weather and they have stayed dry and comfy with no rubs” — Denise Bancroft from New Zealand

9. “If you do wash your own rugs, only use non-biological washing powder as biological ruins the waterproofing as I found out to my expense this year. Even after a professional reproof they still weren’t waterproof!” — Jill Hancock from Chesterfield

10. “Wash rugs in a wheelie bin. It uses much less water and you can do several rinses quickly in one go. You can also plonk a child in there to stomp on the rugs to get the job done quicker. Rugs are washed and child is entertained!” — East Sussex-based Joanna Hartland, enjoys eventing, hunting and hacking

11. “Put WD40 on your leg strap clips and buckles occasionally as this not only helps repel water, but also keeps them moving freely. I compete in Trec and use turnout Snuggy Hoods the night before a competition and when away at events, as the horses stay in corrals. They come in lots of sizes, so you can get a really good fit, which makes it difficult for the horse to get them off in the field” — Sarah Thurnell from Derbyshire

12. “I put small plastic tags on the front fasteners of my rugs so I know they are mine. I use the tiny plastic tags on a metal loop that have a bit of paper that slots in behind a film. I simply write my horse’s name on the tag and there are no more arguments about whose rugs are whose” — Jade Turner from Lincolnshire

13. “Unless my turnout rugs are really, really bad, I don’t wash them every year. I just dry them out, brush the mud off and store them until next season. I used to wash them every season no matter what, but they’re never the same. They lose waterproofness” — Catherine Dickie from East Ayrshire, Scotland enjoys hacking

14. “If you’ve got wet, muddy rugs that need shifting across the yard, simply place them in a wheelbarrow rather than carrying them yourself. Saves you getting plastered in mud” — Michelle Scott BHS ISM is an accredited professional coach from Cheshire who enjoys dressage

15. “If your horse’s shoulders are prone to being rubbed by their rugs, line the shoulders with pure silk. I buy cheap offcuts from the haberdashery or silk scarves from charity shops and sew patches into the shoulders of the rug. The only stipulation is that they must be 100% silk otherwise it doesn’t work” — Laurel Hoare, pleasure rider from Cheshire

16. “Never throw old rugs away. Cut the buckles and straps off dead ones to patch up new rugs. We buy old duvets from charity shops as under-rugs which are so much cheaper than a heavyweight stable rug and just as warm” — Virginia Rider from Kent, who shows ex-racehorses

17. “I swear by Mark Todd rugs. I have a 23-year-old mare who lives out, so rugs have been important. For colder, wet weather, I’ve found the Mark Todd medium and heavy full-neck rugs are amazing quality, well designed, are fantastic waterproof-wise and a comfortable fit, especially the neck design. So many others rub the mane, but not these” — Teresa Lock from Devon

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout Horse of the Year Show, London International and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested in:

How to wash your horse’s rugs at home – and what’s best to use

How to reproof your turnout rugs at home – and help them stay waterproof for longer

Which rug should I put on my horse? H&H’s helpful guide to help you decide

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A versatile rug that’s an essential part of any horse’s rug wardrobe. The best lightweight turnout rugs are designed to give your horse an extra layer to help protect him from the elements, while preventing him from overheating in warmer temperatures.

Lightweights typically have 50–150g of insulation, but you can also get no-fill (0g) rain sheets, which we’ve rounded up separately. When selecting a new rug you need to keep in mind your horse’s size and form, as well as their individual needs.

Best lightweight turnout rugs

We’ve rounded up a selection of the best lightweight turnout rugs for every budget, some of which have been reviewed by our independent testers. And we’ve grouped them by weight to help you find the perfect option for your horse. Jump down to the…

• best 50g turnout rugs
• best 100g turnout rugs
• best 150g turnout rugs

Best 50g turnout rugs

LeMieux Arika Ripstop 50g Turnout Rug

Fill: 50g

Style: Detachable neck

Outer: 600D

Sizes: 4ft9in – 7ft3in

Reasons to buy

• Offers good coverage
• Liner compatible

Reasons to avoid

• If you are looking for a combo neck

Available in mixy-matchy seasonal colours with reflective detailing. The rug has a 600D ripstop outer with a seamless spine to eliminate leaks. A two-part skirt system, patented angled T-bar front closure system and anti-static shoulder lining to balance and distribute any pressure, to help prevent rubbing. Featuring cross surcingles, elasticated leg straps, PVC coated fillet strap and detachable neck cover. Compatible with LeMieux liners sold separately to layer up the rug to the desired weight for your horse.

Also available with the same features with 100g and 200g fill.

Hy StormX Empra 50 Turnout

Fill: 50g, 100g

Style: Standard or combo neck

Outer: 600D

Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft3in

Reasons to buy

• Available in a range of sizes
• Adjustable features to get a good fit

Reasons to avoid

• If you are looking for a high denier outer

Available in teal (50g) or navy (100g), this turnout has a 600D waterproof ripstop outer and features twin adjustable buckle chest fastenings, adjustable cross surcingles, adjustable leg straps and a generous tail flap. The combo version comes with an integrated contour neck cover with double touch-tape fastenings. Finished with reflective StormX logo for added visibility.

Also available with the same features with 100g fill.

Masta Ventomasta Standard Neck Turnout Rug

Fill: 50g

Style: Standard neck

Outer: 600D

Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft6ins

Reasons to buy

• If you are looking for a rug with a small amount of fill
• Anti-rub lining
• If you’re looking for a standard neck

Reasons to avoid

• Standard neck design might not suit everyone

Available in dark purple this rug is made from a 600D ripstop, waterproof and breathable fabric. Featuring an anti-rub polyester lining, shoulder gusset, front twin T-bar fastenings, adjustable surcingles, fillet sting and a tail flap. A matching neck cover is available to purchase separately.

Also available with the same features with 100g and 200g fill.

Swish 50g Detachable Neck Turnout

Fill: 50g

Style: Detachable neck

Outer: 1200D

Sizes: 3ft3in – 7ft6in

H&H review: 8/10

Reasons to buy

• Added visibility with reflective strips
• Higher denier perfect for rug wreckers
• Liner compatible

Reasons to avoid

• If you are looking for a combo neck

Available in a wide selection of colours, this rug gives you the flexibility of a neck cover that attaches with two double-locking Velcro pieces. It is designed to sit higher on the neck and shoulder to prevent it slipping back and rubbing. It has a 1200D ripstop outer with reflective strips on the front, rear and tail flap. It also features large shoulder gussets, cross surcingles, a tail flap and removable, elasticated leg straps.

Also available with the same features with 0g, 100g, 200g, 300g, 360g or 450g fill. Compatible liners in a range of weights available on Amazon – 50g, 100g, 200g or 300g.

This rug was tested and put through its paces by international para dressage rider and trainer Tamsin Addison and her team. They found the fastenings were robust and stood up well to regular use. The reflective strips were very helpful when locating horses out in the fields. She said “Overall we found it a robust and useful turnout rug.”

Read H&H’s independent Swish Equestrian 50g turnout review

WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Essential Lite Plus

Fill: 50g

Style: Standard, detachable or combo neck

Outer: 1200D

Sizes: 4ft – 7ft3in

Reasons to buy

• If you are looking for a rug with a strong denier outer
• Comes with a three-year warranty

Reasons to avoid

• If you need a rug with more than 50g fill

Currently available in a limited edition Dachshund print or navy, this durable rug has a Guard-Tec coating and 1200D strong outer with a smooth lining, which helps to prevent rubbing while enhancing coat shine. It fastens with a twin adjustable buckle front closure (no clips), has an adjustable tail cord with quick clips, twin low cross surcingles and standard tail flap. Fleece wither and three D-rings to attach a neck cover, which is available separately. WeatherBeeta offers a three-year warranty on hardware, waterproofness and breathability on all turnouts.

Also available with the same features with 220g fill.

Ruggles V2 1200D 50g Turnout Rug

Fill: 50g

Style: Standard neck

Outer: 1200D

Sizes: 2ft9in – 7ft6in

Reasons to buy

• A wide range of sizes available
• Good value for features offered

Reasons to avoid

• If you’re looking for a neck included

This turnout is made from 1200D fabric with a Teflon coating for extra protection and more resistance to moisture and staining. The underside has a soft nylon lining to prevent rubbing and help keep the coat smooth. It also features removable leg straps, a wither protector, shoulder gussets and has double buckle and clip chest fastenings. An attachable neck is available separately and fastens to the rug with Velcro. It is available in a really wide range of sizes – about the widest you’ll find – so is a great option if you have a mini or heavy horse.

Also available with the same features with 100g fill.

Epic Classic 50g Turnout Rug

Fill: 50g

Style: Standard or combo neck

Outer: 1200D

Sizes: 5ft9in – 7ft6ins

Reasons to buy

• Broad fit for heavier breeds
• Liner compatible

Reasons to avoid

• If you have a finer breed, in which case check out the Epic Equestrian regular fit range

With a durable 1200D ripstop outer fabric and added Teflon coating to repel dirt and water, with a soft polyester lining. Featuring twin adjustable clip front fastenings, low cross surcingles and adjustable detachable leg straps. A neck cover is available separately and the standard neck rug has attachments for Epic Equestrian’s compatible liners giving the rug more versatility.

This rug is available in a broad or regular fit. The broad fit is designed to accommodate horses with a broader chest, neck, shoulders and apple-bottom. If you have a light/medium-weight horse look at the regular fit range.

Also available with the same features with 100g fill.

JHL Essential Lightweight Plus Turnout Rug

Fill: 80g

Style: Detachable neck

Outer: 600D

Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft

H&H review: 8/10

Reasons to buy

• True to size fit
• Anti-rubbing features
• You want a bit more fill

Reasons to avoid

• Buckle fittings were a bit fiddly

OK, this JHL rug is 80g rather than 50g, but if you’re looking for a light fill that’s less than 100g it could still do the trick. This rug has a nylon lining, with reinforced anti-rub shoulders and fully taped seams. It features adjustable and removable legs straps, a gusseted tail flap, adjustable double front buckles and cross adjustable surcingles.

Also available with the same features with 0g fill, 200g fill or 350g fill.

Our showing editor Alex Robinson had this rug on test and found the sizing was true to size and it offered good anti rubbing features for a reasonable price. Making it a great turnout option for horses with a thicker coat in warmer conditions.

Read Alex’s full JHL Essential Lightweight Plus review.

Best 100g turnout rugs

Ruggles 100g V2 Turnout Rug

Fill: 100g

Style: Standard neck

Outer: 1200D

Sizes: 2ft9in – 7ft6in

Reasons to buy

• Good value
• Neck cover available separately

Reasons to avoid

• You want a neck included

This turnout has a Teflon coating for extra protection and more resistance to moisture and staining. It is available in three lightweight fill options and in a really wide range of sizes. It has a soft lining to prevent rubbing and keep the coat smooth, while the shoulder gussets allow for easier movement. The rug is fastened with double adjustable chest straps and trigger clips, and has detachable leg straps. It features reflective strips, wither protection and taped seams. An attachable neck is available separately and fastens to the rug with Velcro.

Also available with the same features with 50g, 200g, 280g and 400g fill.

Shires Highlander Original 100 Turnout Rug

Fill: 100g

Style: Standard, combo or detachable neck

Outer: 600D

Sizes: 5ft – 7ft3in

Reasons to buy

• Durable waterproof repellent prevents saturation
• Liner compatible

Reasons to avoid

• If you want a stronger outer, try the Highlander Plus range

Available in plum, this turnout has a 600D ripstop outer and 100g fill ideal for those cooler days. It features twin quick clip chest fastenings, shoulder gussets, adjustable cross surcingles, an adjustable fillet string, tail flap and reflective detailing. You can upgrade this rug’s warmth rating by using compatible Shires rug liners which are available separately in 100g or 200g fill.

Also available with the same features as a standard or detachable neck with 50g, 200g and 300g fill.

Rhinegold Elite Montpellier Rug

Fill: 100g

Style: Standard or combo neck

Outer: 600D

Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft3in

Reasons to buy

• Stretch neckline and chest panel
• Extra large tail coverage

Reasons to avoid

• If your horse is a rug wrecker

This turnout has a multi-adjustable chest with twin buckles to create the perfect fit, as well as trigger hooks for everyday ease. The neckline and chest panel benefit from an added waterproof stretch material, which offers extra freedom of movement and comfort. The rug also features a front shoulder movement pleat with stretch fabric inserts, surcingle guides and an extra-large umbrella-style tail guard with reflective tape.

Swish 100g Detachable Neck Turnout

Fill: 100g

Style: Detachable neck

Outer: 1200D

Sizes: 3ft3in – 7ft6in

H&H review: 8/10

Reasons to buy

• Provides good coverage
• Detachable neck

Reasons to avoid

• If you don’t need 100g fill

Available in a wide selection of colours, this rug gives you the flexibility of a neck cover that attaches with two double-locking Velcro pieces. It is designed to sit higher on the neck and shoulder to prevent it slipping back and rubbing. It has a 1200D ripstop outer with reflective strips on the front, rear and tail flap. It also features large shoulder gussets, cross surcingles, a tail flap and removable, elasticated leg straps.

Also available with the same features with 0g, 50g, 200g, 300g, 360g or 450g fill. Compatible liners in a range of weights available on Amazon – 50g, 100g, 200g or 300g.

This rug with the same features but with a 50g fill was tested by international para dressage rider and trainer Tamsin Addison and her team. They didn’t see any evidence of the rug slipping back on the horse who wore it and were very impressed with the reflective detailing.

Read H&H’s independent Swish Equestrian 50g turnout review.

LeMieux Arika Storm-Tek Rug

Fill: 100g

Style: Detachable neck

Outer: 1200D

Sizes: 5ft3in – 7ft

Reasons to buy

• Strong outer denier
• Liner compatible

Reasons to avoid

• Higher price range

This lightweight turnout from LeMieux has been developed using a two-part patented system – the independent lower skirt delivers a break in the hemline, which relieves tension and allows for a greater range of movement, while the central panel helps to self-right the rug and provides added protection. The angled front closure system evenly balances and distributes pressure, helping to prevent rubbing on the shoulder and across the chest.

Also available with the same features with 200g or 350g fill. It is compatible with LeMieux Arika liners.

Mackey Keadeen 100g Turnout

Fill: 100g

Style: Standard or combo neck

Outer: 600D

Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft

Reasons to buy

• You’re looking for a no-frills rug

Reasons to avoid

• If you’re looking for a higher denier outer

This rug has an anti-rub 210D polyester lining, fleece wither protection and twin strap breast buckles, as well as a tail flap, detachable leg straps and cross surcingles. It also features reflective strips on the front, back and tail flap.

Also available with the same features with 250g standard neck or 250g combo neck.

Gallop Trojan 100g Turnout

Fill: 100g

Style: Standard, combo or detachable neck

Outer: 600D

Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft

Reasons to buy

• Cheaper option

Reasons to avoid

• If you don’t need a rug with a fill

Featuring a 600D waterproof ripstop outer, nylon lining and 100g fill. The rug is fastened with double adjustable front buckles, cross surcingles and features elasticated breakaway detachable leg straps and a tail flap. Perfect for those horses who need a little insulation to keep them warm.

Also available with the same features with 200g.

Horseware Amigo Bravo 12 Turnout

Fill: 100g

Style: Standard or detachable neck

Outer: 1200D

Sizes: 4ft – 7ft3in

Reasons to buy

• Liner compatible
• Wide size range

Reasons to avoid

• Higher price range

Made from a strong, durable and waterproof 1200D outer and the choice of standard neck (Original) or detachable contoured neck cover (Plus). With a 100g fill it helps to keep your horse warm when the temperatures start to drop. Featuring a surefit neck design, v-front closure system and leg arches to allow for freedom of movement. With three cross surcingles and a wipe clean tail cord provide a secure fit. The anti-static, anti-bacterial, shine enhancing lining improves your horse’s comfort. Plus, it is compatible with Horseware’s extensive range of liners enabling you to upgrade on warmth as and when needed.

Best 150g turnout rugs

Bucas Irish Turnout

Fill: 150g

Style: Standard neck

Outer: 1200D

Sizes: 5ft–7ft

Reasons to buy

• Wide variety of weights available
• Liner compatible
• Neck cover available separately

Reasons to avoid

• Fittings can be a bit fiddly to start with

The Irish turnout has a durable rip-stop outer and a silk-feel lining to help keep the coat in good condition and prevents rubbing on your horse’s shoulders

It fastens at the chest with a magnetic snap-lock T-bar closure, has cross surcingles and attachments for leg straps allow for an easy fastening and secure fit. Other features include shoulder darts and tail flap. Compatible with Bucas liners and neck covers, which are available separately.

Also available with the same features with 0g, 50g, 100g, 250g or 300g fill.

Premier Equine Buster Turnout With Classic Neck Cover

Fill: 150g

Style: Detachable neck

Outer: 840D

Sizes: 5ft–7ft3in

Reasons to buy

• Provides good coverage
• Detachable neck
• Liner compatible

Reasons to avoid

• Higher price tag but worth the investment

Crafted from breathable and lightweight 840D ballistic nylon with teflon coating for added stain resistance and moisture protection. A dual-membrane design enhances the rug’s waterproof capabilities and protects the 150g fill. The neckline falls in front of the shoulder for a comfortable fit. Features an extra-high elasticated shoulder gusset, double quick release chest clip closures, low cross surcingles, PVC coated tail strap, detachable leg straps and a large tail flap. Detachable neck cover included and it’s compatible with Premier equine liners allowing you to quickly adapt the rug according to your horses needs.

I use Premier Equine rugs on my Irish Draught and found they come up big in size so I always buy a size down in this brand for him. Georgia has found the same when shopping for her 13.3hh Fjord. I love the fit and coverage their rugs offer him. I really like the full length velcro at the front to keep the rug from turning back on itself on his chest. The neck covers attach with strong velcro and I have never had a problem with them rubbing his mane. The self-righting technology is ideal for when he is turned out for longer periods. I have also added liners to my rugs during the winter and found it easy to attach them to get the right weight when needed.

Also available with the same features with 0g, 40g, 70g, 250g, 400g or 420g fill.

What to look out for in a turnout rug

Regardless of the season, your horse’s turnout rug needs to be durable and breathable. While lightweights are a particularly great option in the milder spring and autumn months, layering rugs throughout the year and making use of liners allows you to be flexible in a cost-effective way

Rugs that are both highly waterproof and breathable are what everyone is looking for, although different types of horses will suit particular cuts, designs and neck configurations. It’s important that these rugs can withstand a heavy and prolonged rain shower, don’t slip or rub, and can survive the wear and tear that comes with turning your horse out. There’s a lot to consider when choosing a rug and how to work out which rug is best for your horse

How to choose the best lightweight turnout rug

There are a few things to consider when buying a new turnout rug, including…

• Weight – how much filling do you need? Do you need any at all?
• Outer shell – how tough does the rug need to be? Is your horse a known rug wrecker?
• Cut – do you need a neck? Are you after a particular shape?
• Extras – do you have a preferred type of fastening? Or would you benefit from reflective strips?

Manufacturers are constantly innovating and introducing new features to their lightweight turnout rugs, such as shaped padding to protect the withers and new designs of shoulder gusset to allow additional freedom of movement. Choosing between neck styles – standard with no neck, detachable or integrated – is mostly down to what suits your horse best, but detachable is certainly the most versatile, allowing you to remove the neck when the weather’s a little warmer or if your horse is prone to rubbing. Many of the best lightweight turnout rugs, however, feature special anti-rub linings that should go some way to help prevent this

Fastenings are important because there’s nothing more annoying than having to find a spare buckle or replace your leg straps with a fillet string made of baler twine. Good quality, easy to fasten and comfortable for your horse are what you’re looking for here. Some rugs will have elasticated leg straps, while others will have clips rather than buckles at the front – have a good think about what you prefer and what will work for your horse because you’ll be using them every day

For an in-depth guide to choosing the best lightweight option for your horse, check out our expert guide to buying a new turnout rug.

How heavy is a lightweight rug?

Lightweights typically have 50–150g of insulation, but you can also get 0g/no-fill rain sheets, which we’ve rounded up separately in our guide to the best rain sheets. While lightweights are a particularly great option in the milder spring and autumn months, layering rugs throughout the year and making use of liners has become much more popular as it allows you to be flexible in a cost-effective way.

You may also be interested in…

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Even if your horse is clipped or hairy, in work or enjoying some time out in the field, you need one of these best rain sheets for horses or no-fill turnout rugs in his rug collection. 0g fill, rain sheets are ideal for protecting your horse from the wind and rain, also perfect for having to hand at a show for those unexpected showers.

With so much choice it can be hard to narrow down your search based on your circumstances. I’ve put a selection of turnout rugs with no fill together and highlighted the outer denier, liner attachments, fixings and if the rug is designed for a specific type of horse so you don’t end up with a mini skirt on your horse.

Best 0g rain sheets for horses: H&H’s quick guide

Best rain sheet for a rug-wrecker: Bucas Smartex Rain 0g

Best value rain sheet: WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Essential Lite

Best rain sheet for a broad fit: Premier Equine Buster Zero Turnout Rug

Best rain sheet for tiny ponies: Ruggles V2 Standard Turnout

Bucas Smartex Rain 0g

Fill: 0g

Style: Standard neck

Outer: 1680D

Sizes: 5ft6in–7ft2in

Reasons to buy

• Really strong outer denier
• Liner compatible
• Can be used on a wet horse

Reasons to avoid

• If you have a heavier breed horse you need to look for the Bucas big neck version

This no-fill turnout rug has a ripstop outer that is waterproof and breathable. Featuring a stay-dry fleece lining enabling you to put the rug on your horse after exercise or bathing. The lining is designed to wick away moisture, drying your horse, while the lining remains dry next to your horse’s skin. With Click n go magnetic snap closure, shoulder darts, adjustable cross surcingles, and leg straps. It has attachments for a neck cover which can be purchased separately and is compatible with Bucas liners.

If you have a heavier breed this rug is also available with a big neck version to accommodate those breeds which are wider across the chest.

WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Essential Lite

Fill: 0g

Style: Standard or combo neck

Outer: 1200D

Sizes: 4ft – 7ft3in

Reasons to buy

• Available in a range of sizes
• Durable outer denier

Reasons to avoid

• Front buckle fastenings might not suit everyone

This no-fill rug has a strong 1200D ripstop outer shell. Features include a smooth lining and traditional shoulder gussets, twin chest buckles, low cross surcingles, adjustable leg straps and a standard tail flap. It also has fleece at the wither and D rings to attach a neck (purchased separately) on the standard neck version. WeatherBeeta offers a three-year warranty on hardware, waterproofness and breathability on turnouts.

Premier Equine Buster Zero Turnout Rug

Fill: 0g

Style: Standard, high standard or detachable neck

Outer: 840D

Sizes: 5ft – 7ft3in

Reasons to buy

• Liner compatible
• Detachable neck cover
• Deep fit

Reasons to avoid

• Quick release clips might not suit everyone

This is the no-fill version of Premier Equine’s best-selling turnout. Made with a breathable 840D ballistic nylon, this rug is compatible with Premier Equine liners. As part of the evolution of the ‘Buster’, an extra-high shoulder gusset has been added to allow for a greater range of movement in the field. It features a classic neck cover (without elastic), fleece-lined with pad, quick-release chest clips, an antibacterial and anti-static lining, and PVC-coated tail strap.

Ruggles V2 Standard Turnout

Fill: 0g

Style: Standard neck

Outer: 1200D

Sizes: 2ft9in – 7ft6in

Reasons to buy

• Teflon coated
• Strong outer denier perfect for rug wreckers
• Large size range

Reasons to avoid

• Not available as a combo with a fixed neck

This rug from Ruggles is made from 1200D fabric with a Teflon coating that offers extra protection and more resistance to moisture and staining. The underside has soft nylon lining to prevent rubbing and keep the coat smooth. It also features removable leg straps, a wither protector and has double buckle and clip chest fastenings. It is available in a range of weights and has attachments for a neck that is available separately.

Hy StormX Empra 0 Turnout Rug

Fill: 0g

Style: Standard neck

Outer: 600D

Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft3in

Reasons to buy

• Poly-tec lining for comfort
• Adjustable fastenings

Reasons to avoid

• Only available in standard neck

This turnout has a 600D waterproof ripstop outer and features twin adjustable buckle chest fastenings, adjustable cross surcingles, adjustable leg straps and a generous tail flap. Lined with a smooth breathable poly-tec lining to offer optimum comfort and finished with reflective StormX logo for added visibility.

Rhinegold Torrent No Fill Turnout Rug

Fill: 0g

Style: Standard or combo neck

Outer: 600D

Sizes: 3ft6in – 7ft

Reasons to buy

• Breathable lining
• Wide range of sizes

Reasons to avoid

• Clip chest fastenings might not suit everyone

Made with a 600D ripstop, breathable outer, this Rhinegold rain sheet has a breathable cotton lining and taped seams. It features twin clip and buckle chest fastening for adjustability and ease of use, front shoulder gusset, cross surcingles, leg straps, tail guard and strengthened surcingle guides.

Shires Highlander Original Lite Turnout Rug

Fill: 0g

Style: Standard, combo or detachable neck

Outer: 600D

Sizes: 5ft – 7ft3in

Reasons to buy

• Available in a range of styles
• Liner compatible

Reasons to avoid

• If you need a stronger denier

This rug has a waterproof outer and is fully lined with taped seams, and fastens with twin clip chest fastenings, adjustable cross surcingles, fillet strap and tail flap. It is compatible with Shires WarmaRug liners to create a warmer rug.

LeMieux Arika Featherweight Rug

Fill: 0g

Style: Detachable neck

Outer: 900D

Sizes: 5ft3in – 7ft

Reasons to buy

• Liner compatible
• Strong outer denier
• Good coverage

Reasons to avoid

• Detachable neck might not suit your requirements

This rain sheet from LeMieux has been developed using the same technology as their Storm-Tek range. It has a detachable neck and additional liner attachments, while the angled front closure system helps to evenly balance and distribute pressure, which prevents rubbing on the shoulders and across the chest. It has an antibacterial and anti-static lining, waterproof skirt panels, and is fastened with three belly surcingles, the middle of which is detachable. It also has a silicone-covered fillet strap. Compatible with the full range of LeMieux liners, giving you more flexibility across the seasons.

Mackey Equi-Sential Light

Fill: 0g

Style: Standard neck

Outer: 600D

Sizes: 4ft – 7ft

Reasons to buy

• Good size range
• Fleece wither protection

Reasons to avoid

• Standard neck might not suit everyone’s needs

This no-fill turnout rug has a 600D waterproof and breathable outer. Featuring a double T-bar front closure, two cross surcingles and has an adjustable cord at the tail. It also has fleece wither protection and a generous tail flap.

Gallop Trojan Lightweight Turnout

Fill: 0g

Style: Standard, combo or detachable neck

Outer: 600D

Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft

Reasons to buy

• Adjustable fastenings
• Available as standard or combo neck
• Cheaper option

Reasons to avoid

• Better suited for light rain showers

This rug is described as having a showerproof, breathable outer and comfortable nylon lining. It had a generous shoulder pleat, adjustable cross surcingles, double buckle chest fastenings and elasticated leg straps. The tail flap also provides good coverage, too.

Masta Fieldmasta 0g Lightweight Turnout

Fill: 0g

Style: Combo neck

Outer: 1200D

Sizes: 5ft3in – 7ft6in

Reasons to buy

• Anti-rub lining
• Strong outer denier
• Wide range of sizes

Reasons to avoid

• Combo style might not be for everyone

This Masta rug has an anti-rub polyester lining, twin front surcingle fastenings, adjustable belly straps and a fillet string that allow a quick and secure fit. There are spare D rings if you would like to add your own leg straps. The latest design has a neck insert at the wither, which allows freedom of movement while grazing and helps to relieve pressure.

Horseware Rambo Optimo Plus 0g Turnout

Fill: 0g

Style: Detachable neck

Outer: 1000D

Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft3in

Reasons to buy

• Strong outer denier
• Liner compatible
• Ten-year guarantee

Reasons to avoid

• This rug is built for larger horses

This rain sheet has been designed to offer freedom of movement for a bigger-built horse with unique innovative design features. Featuring a pivotal dart placed above and behind the horse’s shoulder for natural movement while keeping the rug in position. Surefit neck design with V-Front Closure to eliminate pressure on the shoulder, dual leg arches and a wipe clean tail cord. The rug has reflective strips for increased visibility, three cross surcingles, detachable neck cover and liner loops to attach Horseware liners. As this rug is built for larger horses, Horseware recommends sizing down.

Horseware Rambo offers a ten-year guarantee on waterproofness, breathability and hardware.

How to choose the best no-fill rain sheet

Ideal for the changeable British summer weather, no-fill turnouts are often worn by unclipped horses in the spring and autumn as well as being popular for good-doers and hardier types that only require lightweight rugs in the colder months. They’re not usually designed to hold off really heavy rain in the same way that the best lightweight turnout rugs would do, but are perfect for showers and providing extra protection from the wind without adding any warmth. If you’re looking to protect your horse from flies, it might be worth considering one of the best waterproof fly rugs, too.

Many of the best rain sheets for horses come with more simple fastenings, which make them quick and easy to put on and take off but in turn offer less adjustability, so this is something to consider. Some only have a fillet string rather than leg straps. Rain sheets are increasingly becoming liner compatible, which means you can buy them as an outer shell, mixing and matching liners to create a warmer rug. This saves you having to buy a different rug for every temperature.

How do I measure my horse for a rug?

To measure your horse for good rug fit, use a soft tape measure to measure your horse from the centre of their chest to the furthest point of their hindquarters – follow these instructions on how to fit a horse rug. In the UK rugs are measured in feet and inches.

You may also be interested in…

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Let’s talk about rugs. We all love buying them and growing our collection to include everything from the best rain sheets to the best heavyweight turnout rugs – but are your current stable rugs really working for your horse? I’ve put this guide together to bring you the best stable rugs on the market designed to help keep your horse warm, comfortable and clean when stabled.

Best stable rugs: H&H’s quick guide

Best stable rug for a rug-wrecker: Shires Tempest Plus

Best value stable rug: Swish Equestrian Stable Rug

Best stable rug for a broad fit: Epic Classic

Best stable rug for tiny ponies: Ruggles Stable Rug With Fleece Collar

Best stable rugs in a range of fill weights

Shires Tempest Plus

Fill: 0g, 100g, 200g

Style: Standard or combo (100/200g) neck

Outer: 1200D

Sizes: 5ft – 7ft

H&H Rating: 9/10, H&H Approved

Reasons to buy

• Available in a range of weights
• Strong outer denier
• Liner compatible
• Good coverage

Reasons to avoid

• Neck length came up short on the combo

These stable rugs have seriously durable outers and SupaFleece trims for a luxurious feel to help reduce the risk of rubbing. Both the standard neck and combo versions have buckle fastenings at the chest, adjustable cross surcingles, fillet string and a tail flap. The difference between the Tempest Plus and Tempest Original is the Plus has a Supafleece neck trim, higher denier outer making it perfect for rug wreckers and it’s liner compatible allowing you to attach separate liners when the temperature drops.

We loved this rug and our tester (website editor Carol Phillips) used the combo on her middleweight Irish Sport Horse daily during the winter months. She found it was true to size and provided enough depth and length to keep him warm, it didn’t slip or rub even with daily use. Carol said: “This is a simple but well-designed, robust combo stable rug.”

Read Carol’s full Shires Tempest Plus stable rug review.

Swish Equestrian Stable Rug

Fill: 50g, 100g, 200g or 360g

Style: Detachable neck

Sizes: 4ft3in – 7ft6in

Reasons to buy

• Available in a range of different fill weights
• Compatible with liners

Reasons to avoid

• Not available as a combo with a fixed neck

Available in a range of fill weights, this Swish stable rug can be used with or without the detachable neck cover. It has liner attachments so compatible liners can be added to increase warmth throughout the colder weather. It has large shoulder gussets, cross surcingles and a tail flap. The rug is designed to sit higher on the neck and shoulders to prevent slipping and rubbing, while the soft nylon lining also has anti-slip darts on the quarters.

Epic Classic Stable Rug – Broad Fit

Fill: 50g, 100g, 200g

Style: Standard neck with attachments

Outer: 420D

Sizes: 5ft9in – 7ft6in

Reasons to buy

• Designed for broad fit horses
• Teflon coated to prevent stable stains
• Compatible with liners

Reasons to avoid

• If you don’t have a heavier breed

These stable rugs have durable outers with an added Teflon coating to help aid against stable stains. All of the Epic classic stable rug range is compatible with Epic liners giving you more versatility with each rug. It fastens at the chest with quick clips, but has buckles for adjustability, plus low T-bar cross surcingles, and adjustable detachable leg straps. The broad fit rugs are designed specifically for horses with a broader chest, neck, shoulders and apple-bottom. If you don’t require a broad fitting rug for your horse, check out Epic Equestrian’s regular fit rug range.

Ruggles Stable Rug With Fleece Collar

Fill: 50g, 100g, 200g, 400g

Style: Standard neck

Outer: 420D

Sizes: 2ft9in – 7ft6in

Reasons to buy

• Generous tail flap
• Plenty of size and colour options

Reasons to avoid

• Only available as a standard neck

This smart stable rug comes in a really wide range of sizes, so is ideal if you have a mini or a giant. It has a soft polyester lining to help prevent rubbing and keep the coat smooth. It features double adjustable surcingles and has a generous tail flap and a fillet string to stop the back end of the rug from moving. The chest fastens with double adjustable chest straps and quick-release clips, while the generous shoulder gussets allow easier movement, which in turn creates less friction and reduces the chance of rubbing.

WeatherBeeta ComFiTec PP Channel Quilt II

Fill: 220g, 360g

Style: Detachable (220g) or combo (360g) neck

Outer: 600D

Sizes: 5ft – 7ft3in

Reasons to buy

• Compatible with liners
• Offers great coverage

Reasons to avoid

• Starts at 220g fill weight

This technical stable rug is compatible with WeatherBeeta liners, which makes it really versatile. It features a memory foam wither relief pad that contours to the horse’s shape and lifts the rug off the withers to reduce rubbing and provide added comfort, plus an easy clip front closure. It also has traditional side gussets for natural movement, twin low cross surcingles and tail cord.

Premier Equine Stable Buster With Neck

Fill: 100g, 200g, 450g

Style: Detachable neck

Outer: 1000D

Sizes: 5ft – 7ft3in

Reasons to buy

• Neck cover included
• Extra high elasticated shoulder gusset
• Compatible with liners

Reasons to avoid

• Detachable neck might not suit your requirements

This smart stable rug is crafted from a breathable and lightweight ripstop polyester. The channel quilted fabric and thermo bonded fill help keep your horse warm. Features an extra high elasticated shoulder gusset, fleece lined wither pad, quick release chest straps, cross surcingles and PVC coated tail strap. It has a detachable neck cover and liner attachments so you can quickly adapt the rug to your horse’s needs. Plus the rug is self-righting so your horse can move freely without the rug slipping.

LeMieux Arika Stable-Tek

Fill: 100g, 200g, 350g

Style: Standard neck with attachments

Outer: 210D

Sizes: 4ft 9in – 7ft3in

Reasons to buy

• Compatible with liners
• Plenty of adjustment

Reasons to avoid

• Low denier

This stable rug has a durable diamond ripstop outer that repels stains and moisture and won’t snag or tear, quilted fill, double t-bar front closure and cross surcingles. It is also compatible with LeMieux rug liners, bibs and necks giving you the full flexibility across all seasons.

Bucas Quilts

Fill: 50g, 150g or 300g

Style: Standard neck with attachments

Sizes: 5ft – 7ft

Reasons to buy

• Stay Dry lining allows you to put the rug on a wet horse
• Attachments for neck cover

Reasons to avoid

• Higher price tag

The Bucas Quilt can be used on its own or as an extra layer underneath a turnout. It features attachments so you can add a neck cover if needed. The rug is available with a choice of two linings – Stay-Dry (SD) or Silk-Feel (SF). The SD version can be put on a wet horse and the lining will wick the moisture away and help your horse dry faster, while the SF also wicks away the moisture but at a slower rate but keeps the coat silky smooth.

HyConic Stable Rug

Fill: 100g, 250g

Style: Standard

Outer: 300D

Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft3in

Reasons to buy

• Adjustable fastenings
• Generous tail flap

Reasons to avoid

• No neck attachments

This rug is part of Hy Equestrian’s HyConic collection, which is available in a wide range of sizes, and the outer is 300 denier with quilted detail to keep your horse warm. It features adjustable cross surcingles, twin clip chest fastenings, fillet string and a generous tail flap. It is a smart lighter weight stable rug that is perfect for use on its own or as a layer.

Masta Stablemasta Combo Neck Stable Rug

Fill: 200g, 300g

Style: Combo

Outer: 600D

Sizes: 5ft3in – 7ft6in

Reasons to buy

• Special neck design to help prevent mane loss
• Tri-vent gusset for freedom of movement

Reasons to avoid

• Only available in combo style

This rug has a clever dome neck design to help prevent mane loss and the darted fixed neck helps to take pressure off the mane and increase air circulation. It fastens at the chest with quick clips, but has buckles for adjustability, plus T-bar cross surcingles, and two adjustable leg straps. The design includes tri-vent shoulder gussets for freedom of movement, memory foam pads at the wither and a waterproof lower section.

How to find the best stable rug

Horses are less able to create their own warmth from movement in a stable, so it’s important to make sure they can stay warm and regulate their temperature. For this reason, choosing the right fill weight for the temperature – or right number of layers – is essential.

The general rule is that your horse would benefit from a slightly heavier rug in the stable than he would in the field in the same conditions. So if he would be most comfortable in a lightweight turnout in the field, you should consider a medium weight stable rug. Having a selection of options is ideal, but layering up or looking for a rug that is compatible with liners is another way around this.

When you’re choosing the best stable rug for your horse, you should also consider whether you want a neck and what fastenings you prefer. T-bar fastenings are common as they are quick and easy, whereas buckles offer adjustability. The gold standard is a combination of buckles and clips, which allows you to find the perfect fit and then fasten quickly and easily. Other features to look out for in the best stable rugs are anti-rub linings, pressure-relieving with pads and shoulder gussets to offer freedom of movement.

What is denier and why is it important on rugs?

Denier is the number of yarns used to make one thread. The more denier, the stronger the fabric that the rug is made from. When choosing the denier of your rug you need to consider: is your horse a rug wrecker? Do they like rubbing? If so it may be worth investing in a stronger rug with a higher denier as it will be more durable.

What neck style does my horse need?

When choosing a rug for your horse, you will see lots of different neck options to choose from, these can include standard neck, high neck, detachable neck or combo necks. Standard neck rugs are a great choice for milder weather, hot horses or those that tend to lose their manes when wearing a rug with a neck. Horses can often lose their manes when wearing a neck rug and a standard neck turnout rug can help to prevent this. Some standard neck rugs have clips, Velcro or D-rings that can be used to attach a neck cover, typically available separately.

How do I know what size rug my horse needs to fit correctly?

It’s very important to get a good fitting rug otherwise it could result in unwanted rubbing and slipping. UK rugs are usually measured horizontally from the centre of the chest to the end of the rump, in feet and inches. Use a soft tape measure to measure your horse. Read our rug fitting guide for further details.

You may also be interested in…

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

If you’re looking for an effective way to protect your horse from flies on a budget, we’ve rounded up our pick of the best cheap fly rugs – all with an RRP of under £50, and there are plenty with discounts on top of that. They might not offer as many technical features as one of the best fly rugs but, if your horse is sensitive and money is tight, a cheap fly rug is ten times better than no fly rug at all. You can always top up the protection with one of the best fly masks or best fly sprays if you need to.

Some of the best budget fly rugs do offer some of the more technical features. The rug might have great UV protection, an anti-rub lining, a belly flap or a detachable neck, but it’s unlikely to have them all, so you just need to work out which features are most important to you.

Best fly rugs with an RRP under £50

Saxon Mesh Combo Neck

Sizes: 4ft – 7ft3in

UV protection: 96%

This value fly rug, which is from a WeatherBeeta brand, is made of a fine weave mesh outer that keeps the insects out while keeping your horse cool. It has a standard tail flap and fastens with a twin surcingle chest closure, twin low cross surcingles and double touch-tape closures on the neck. It also blocks an impressive amount of UV.

Gallop Classic Combo Fly Rug

Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft

UV protection: Yes

This fly rug has a fixed neck with a headcollar loop and stretchy Lycra insert at the wither. It has elasticated detachable leg straps and buckle adjustments at the chest. The nylon lining at the chest also helps to prevent rubs. All in all, quite a few handy features for a low price.

Shires Tempest Original Combo Fly Rug

Sizes: 4ft – 7ft3in

UV protection: 80%

RRP: £47.99

This breathable, lightweight and airy rug provides a barrier to biting insects without preventing airflow. The rug features buckle chest fastenings, cross surcingles and an adjustable fillet strap.

Rhinegold Fly Rug With Detachable Neck

Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft

UV protection: Yes

This zebra print fly rug has a detachable neck, which not many styles do – so it’s perfect if you need the extra versatility. It’s made of a super-fine lightweight mesh has a satin chest lining to help prevent rubbing. It also features a cotton towelling spine section that helps wick away sweat, a generous tail guard, adjustable legstraps, and is fastened with buckles at the chest.

Fouganza Fly Sheet

Sizes: 115–155cm

This airy mesh rug has three chest straps as well as three or four neck fastenings, depending on the size of the rug. It features belly and tail flaps in addition to a long neck cover for maximum coverage. The extended detachable neck ensures coverage while your horse is grazing.

Masta Vento Fly Rug

Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft6in

Made from a soft mesh fabric to enable airflow, this fly rug has touch-tape fastenings to the neck, twin surcingle chest fastenings and cross surcingles at the belly. The design now has an added neck insert, which allows for freedom of movement while grazing, by moving with your horse and helping to relieve wither pressure. It also has an anti-rub lining along the neck and shoulders.

You might also like:

Turnout and stable rug options if you’re shopping on a budget

12 of the best fly rugs that offer horses extra protection from summer pests

12 of the best waterproof fly rugs – perfect for summer showers and sunshine

8 rugs designed to protect sweet-itch prone horses and ponies from midges

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

If you’re looking to grab a bargain to add to your horse’s rug wardrobe, then you’ve come to the right place...

Heading towards the worst of the winter weather, Black Friday horse rug deals come at the perfect time. Whether you’re looking for lightweight turnouts, heavyweight stable rugs or exercise sheets, this is the place to find and compare all the best deals. We will be regularly updating this page with the very best Black Friday horse rug deals that we can find as well as our main page of Black Friday equestrian deals..

Quick links

Viovet: Loads of big brands discounted here

GS Equestrian: Save up to 70% on rugs from popular brands

Naylors: Save up to 60% on rugs, and get an extra 25% off with ‘BF25’

Best Black Friday horse rug deals

If you’re looking for something specific, jump down to the category – if not, scroll through and see what catches your eye.

• Lightweight turnout rugs
• Medium weight turnout rugs
• No-fill rain sheets
• Stable rugs
• Fly rugs
• Other – coolers, travel rugs etc

Lightweight turnout rugs

Medium weight turnout rugs

No-fill rainsheets

Stable rugs

Fly rugs

Other rugs

You can also check out our buying guides to see what’s on the market…

• lightweight turnouts and rainsheets
• medium-weight turnouts
• heavyweight turnouts
• stable rugs
• turnout and stable rugs on a budget
• magnetic rugs
• show rugs
• travel rugs
• cooler rugs
• exercise sheets
• summer sheets
• fly rugs
• waterproof fly rugs
• ride-on fly rugs
• patterned rugs

What is Black Friday?

For consumers and retailers in the UK, Black Friday is a recent phenomenon, but it has been going strong the United States for decades.

Black Friday is the first Friday after Thanksgiving and is traditionally seen as the start of the Christmas shopping season, with high street retailers opening their doors at the crack of dawn and offering big discounts for shoppers who have set their alarm clocks.

The rise of internet shopping has allowed the Black Friday tradition to spread throughout the world, and it hasn’t passed the equestrian world by either. From your local tack shop to massive online retailers, there will be great discounts to be had.

You might also like:

Best Cyber Monday equestrian deals 2025, 50 hand-picked deals by our experts and horse owners

Turnout and stable rug options if you’re shopping on a budget

12 rain sheets/no-fill turnouts to protect your horse from showers

A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

Best medium weight turnout rugs for chillier days

12 warm heavyweight turnouts for the winter

10 stable rugs your horse will thank you for

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

With UK temperatures fluctuating, you might now be looking to dig out a thinner rug or possibly give your horse an extra layer. But is it really the best thing to do? Not necessarily, according to equine experts. Here are nine things to consider when assessing whether your horse is feeling cold – and if you’re still unsure, check out our horse rugging temperature guide.

1. Horses have a wide thermoneutral zone

A horse feels cold when the weather creates temperatures below 0°C. They feel hot when it reaches 25°C. The area between these two is the horse’s thermoneutral zone.

2. This zone is huge compared to ours

Humans have a much narrower thermoneutral zone of between 25 and 30°C. So when we think it’s cold outside, horses still feel comfortable, which is why we shouldn’t judge adding a rug by how cold we are.

3. Eating keeps them warm

A horse’s core body temperature is 38°C and thermoregulation — fuelled by energy stored in food the horse eats — helps maintain it. Heat is generated by breakdown of food either inside the cells of the body or by fermentation of fibre within the hindgut.

4. Rugging unnecessarily leads to weight gain

Horses use a considerable amount of energy to keep warm and so, if he is too heavily rugged, excess energy will be deposited as fat.

5. They hold heat better than we do

Due to their fur coats, horses will not lose body heat as rapidly as we do. They lose heat from the skin surface, through breath, faeces and urine, and through contact with colder surfaces, such as the ground.

6. Equines are designed to cope with the cold

When the temperature drops below 0°C, the horse keeps heat in by an increased metabolic rate. He will also seek shelter, his blood flow will decrease to let his limb temperature drop and, if it gets really cold, he’ll start shivering.

7. Keeping warm is a balancing act

Body temperature is a balance between heat produced and lost. In the cold, the horse loses heat more rapidly and must increase heat production and/or decrease heat loss to maintain temperature.

8. Don’t judge how warm they are by the ears

Feeling your horse’s ears, face or legs is a poor indicator of how warm they are. Instead place your hand inside the rug behind the withers. If it feels cold, consider an extra rug. If it’s damp, he’s probably too warm.

9. So in conclusion…

Most horses will not need rugging until temperatures dip to 5-10°C. Older, younger, thinner or clipped horses will need rugs sooner.

You might also be interested in:

Which rug should I put on my horse? H&H’s helpful guide to help you decide

12 rain sheets/no-fill turnouts to protect your horse from showers

A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

Best medium weight turnout rugs for chillier days

12 warm heavyweight turnouts for the winter

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Medium weight turnout rugs are an essential item in any clipped horse’s rug wardrobe. The best medium weight turnouts typically have around 200–250g insulation and will provide a clipped horse with some warmth and protection from the elements.

Rugs that are both waterproof and breathable are what everyone is looking for, although different types of horses will suit particular cuts, designs and neck configurations. It’s important that these rugs can withstand a heavy and prolonged rain shower, don’t slip or rub, and can survive the wear and tear that comes with turning your horse out. There’s a lot to consider when choosing a rug – jump to this section for more info on how to work out which rug is best for your horse.

Best medium weight turnout rugs

WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Plus Dynamic II Medium

Fill: 220g

Style: Standard, high, combo or detachable neck

Outer: 1200D

Sizes: 4ft – 7ft3in

RRP: £134.99 (standard neck) – £159.99 (detachable)

H&H review: 9/10, H&H Approved

This versatile rug from Weatherbeeta has a strong and durable triple-weave outer shell with repel shell coating. It has a memory foam wither relief pad that lifts the rug off the wither to reduce rubbing and provide added comfort. The quick-clip front closure offers maximum adjustability and an extra-large tail flap for maximum protection, and reflective strips on each side.

Also available at with the same features with 0g fill, 100g fill or 360g fill, and is compatible with the WeatherBeeta liner system.

Read H&H’s independent WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Plus Dynamic II turnout review.

View the standard neck now at viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

View the high neck version now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

View the combo version now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

View the detachable neck version now at viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

JHL Essential Medium Turnout

Fill: 200g

Style: Standard or combo

Outer: 600D ripstop

Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft

RRP: £59.99 (standard), £79.99 (combo)

H&H review: 9/10, H&H Approved

This rug has a 600D ripstop outer, nylon lining and fully taped seams. It benefits from anti-rub shoulder linings, shoulder gussets and a gusseted tail flap. The JHL Essential fastens with adjustable buckle and clips at the chest, adjustable cross surcingles and adjustable, removable leg straps. It also has fleece protection at the wither, and the standard neck has three D-rings to attach a neck cover that can be purchased separately.

Also available with the same features with 0g fill, 80g fill, 250g fill or 350g fill.

Read H&H’s independent JHL Essential medium weight turnout review.

View the standard neck at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

View the combo now at viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

Hy StormX Original 200 Turnout

Fill: 200g

Style: Combo or detachable neck

Outer: 600D ripstop

Sizes: 3ft6in – 7ft

RRP: £78.99 (combo), £82.99 (detachable)

This versatile medium weight turnout rug comes with a detachable neck cover so it can be tailored to the weather. Made from 600D with a ripstop and waterproof weave, this fabric is perfect for hard wear in the field. The 200g fill will keep your horse nice and warm in the changeable weather and the deep shoulder gussets allow for freedom of movement and comfort.

Also available at with the same features with 0g fill, 50g fill or 100g fill.

We tested the 50g version of this StormX rug – read H&H’s full StormX Original turnout review.

View the combo version now at gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

View the detachable neck version now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

Shires Highlander Original 200 Turnout Rug

Fill: 200g

Style: Standard, combo or detachable neck

Outer: 600D ripstop

Sizes: 5ft – 7ft3in

RRP: £80.99 (standard), £94.99 (combo), £103.99 (detachable)

This rug has a contour neck cover with double-sided touch-close straps. It also benefits from deep shoulder gussets, a full lining, taped seams and a durable, water-repellent finish. It fastens with twin buckle chest fastenings, adjustable cross surcingles, adjustable fillet strap, and integrated leg strap loops.

Also available at with the same features with 0g fill, 50g fill, 100g fill or 300g fill, and is compatible with Shires WarmaRug liners.

In the UK? View the standard neck now amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk, naylors.com or ebay.co.uk

In the UK? View the combo now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

In the UK? View the detachable neck now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Ultra Cozi II Medium

Fill: 220g

Style: Detachable neck

Outer: 1680D ballistic nylon

Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft3in

RRP: £264.99

This is a top-of-the-range WeatherBeeta rug so it’s packed with extra features. It uses the new WeatherBeeta liner system and features the Cozi chest guard and memory foam wither relief pad that lifts the rug off the wither to reduce rubbing. The ballistic nylon outer shell has a waterproof and breathable coating, while the adjustable belly wrap offers extra comfort and warmth. It fastens with a double adjustable quick-clip front closure and has a reflective gusset and insert on tail wrap for extra visibility.

Also available at with the same features with 100g fill, and is compatible with the WeatherBeeta liner system.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

Mark Todd Mediumweight Turnout Rug

Fill: 250g

Style: Combo or detachable neck

Outer: 600D ripstop

Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft

RRP: From £115

This breathable rug has a nylon lining and fully taped seams. Other features include reinforced anti-rub shoulders with shoulder gussets for comfort and gussetted tail flap for maximum protection. It fastens with double front buckles with quick-release clips, adjustable low cross surcingles, adjustable and removable leg straps, plus fleece poll protection on neck cover.

View the standard neck now at viovet.co.uk

View the combo now at viovet.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

View the detachable neck now at ebay.co.uk

Rhinegold Konig Turnout

Fill: 200g

Style: Standard or combo

Outer: 600D ripstop

Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft3in

RRP: £56.90 (standard), £69.50 (combo)

H&H review: 8/10

The Konig has a 600D ripstop outer with a breathable nylon lining. It features multi-adjustable chest fastenings with twin buckles and trigger clips for ease. It also has a front shoulder gusset, cross surcingles, leg straps, no back seam, a tail flap and strengthened surcingle guides. A compatible neck cover is available separately for the standard neck.

Also available in foal sizes at Amazon.

Read H&H’s independent Rhinegold Konig turnout review.

View the standard neck now at amazon.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

View the combo version at amazon.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

Hy DefenceX System 200 Turnout

Fill: 200g

Style: Detachable neck

Outer: 1200D

Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft3in

Colours: Red/navy

RRP: £104.99

H&H review: 8/10

This turnout is made from a durable and waterproof 1200D material, with a 200g fill. It has a detachable neck, adjustable cross surcingles, twin clip chest fastenings and leg straps to keep this rug securely in place, as well as reflective detailing. The deep shoulder gusset allows for a range of movement and specially shaped tail flap provides good coverage.

Also available at with the same features with 0g fill, 50g fill or 100g fill.

Read H&H’s independent DefenceX System 200 turnout review.

In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

Swish 200g Turnout

Fill: 200g

Style: Detachable neck

Outer: 1200D

Sizes: 4ft3in – 7ft6in

RRP: £95

H&H review: 8/10

This 1200D turnout from Swish is compatible with Swish rug liners and comes with a detachable neck cover that fastens with two double-locking Velcro straps. It is designed to sit higher on the neck and shoulders to prevent the rug from slipping back and rubbing. It has reflective strips on the front, rear and tail flap, as well as large shoulder gussets, cross surcingles, a tail flap and removable, elasticated leg straps.

Also available with the same features with 0g, 50g, 100g, 300g, 360g or 450g fill. Compatible liners in a range of weights available on Amazon – 50g, 100g, 200g or 300g.

We tested the lightweight version of this turnout – read the full Swish turnout rug review.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk

LeMieux Arika Storm-Tek Rug

Fill: 200g

Style: Detachable neck

Outer: 1200D

Sizes: 5ft3in – 7ft

RRP: £159.95

This rug from LeMieux has been developed using a two-part patented system – the independent lower skirt delivers a break in the hemline, which relieves tension and allows for a greater range of movement, while the central panel helps to self-right the rug and provides added protection. The angled front closure system evenly balances and distributes pressure, helping to prevent rubbing on the point of shoulder and across the chest.

Also available with the same features with 100g or 350g fill. It is compatible with LeMieux Arika liners.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

Horseware Rhino Reflectech Plus With Vari-Layer

Fill: 250g

Style: Detachable neck

Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft3in (also pony shape 3ft9in – 5ft9in)

RRP: £253.95

This rug has interwoven reflective yarn that illuminates in low lighting conditions. The Vari-Layer technology means that with 250g fill across your horse’s back and 100g on the sides, the rug is warmer without the extra weight. It also has an additional waterproof inner layer, which is a handy extra barrier if the outer becomes damaged. It fastens with a V-front closure that reduces pressure on the shoulder and can be used on a variety of shapes but is ideal for broader horses. It also has three cross surcingles, leg straps and a tail-holding strap.

In the UK? View now at gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

Mackey Wicklow Turnout

Fill: 200g

Style: Detachable neck

Outer: 1680D

Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft

RRP: £154.95

The detachable neck on this rug has a rouched hood for a good fit around the head. It features adjustable double clip chest closures, generous shoulder gussets, cross surcingles, detachable leg straps and reflective strips front, back and tail flap.

Also available with the same features with 50g or 360g fill.

In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

Whitaker Angus Combo Turnout

Fill: 170g

Style: Combo neck

Outer: 600D ripstop

Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft

RRP: £89

On the lighter side of medium with 170g fill, this turnout is complete with shaggy cow prints and has a detachable neck that is secured with Velcro. It has a buckle adjustable chest fastening with three D-rings for further adjustability, cross surcingles, a shoulder gusset and large tail guard.

In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or decathlon.co.uk

How to choose the best turnout rug

There are a few things to consider when buying a new turnout rug, including…

• Weight – how much filling do you need?
• Outer shell – how tough does the rug need to be? Is your horse a known rug wrecker?
• Cut – do you need a neck? Are you after a particular shape?
• Extras – do you have a preferred type of fastening? Or would you benefit from reflective strips?

Manufacturers are constantly innovating and introducing new features to their lightweight turnout rugs, such as shaped padding to protect the withers and new designs of shoulder gusset to allow additional freedom of movement. Choosing between neck styles – standard with no neck, detachable or integrated – is mostly down to what suits your horse best, but detachable is certainly the most versatile, allowing you to remove the neck when the weather’s a little warmer or if your horse is prone to rubbing. Many of the best turnout rugs, however, feature special anti-rub linings that should go some way to help prevent this.

Fastenings are important because there’s nothing more annoying that having to find a spare buckle or replace your leg straps with a fillet string made of baler twine. Good quality, easy to fasten and comfortable for your horse are what you’re looking for here. Some rugs will have elasticated leg straps, while others will have clips rather than buckles at the front – have a good think about what you prefer and what will work for your horse because you’ll be using them every day.

For an in-depth guide to choosing the best lightweight option for your horse, check out our expert guide to buying a new turnout rug.

You might also like:

A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

10 stable rugs your horse will thank you for

Turnout and stable rug options if you’re shopping on a budget

12 warm heavyweight turnouts for the winter

From racoons to tractors and Thelwell ponies – here’s 33 patterned rugs you’ll want to kit your horse out in

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

We’re all shopping a bit more frugally this year and trying to save money on horse kit, but when it comes to rugging your horse you want to buy the best you can afford – either that or your horse is a known rug trasher so you’re looking for the best cheap horse rugs to last one season. When buying a rug on a budget, you may have to forgo the most technical and time-saving features, such as a fillet strap in place of an adjustable, elasticated or detachable leg straps. You may also be limited to cheaper fixings and fabrics, such as those with lower denier ratings. But if these features aren’t on your list of essentials, you could find yourself a bargain.

We’ve rounded up a selection of the best turnout rugs to choose from if you’re on a budget. Some have RRPs at the lower end of the market, while others are more pricey, but are the entry level range for a particular brand. Many brands, such as WeatherBeeta and Shires, have multiple ranges aimed at different price points – for every brand that does this we’ve included their most budget-friendly option. This can be really helpful if you know a particular brand is the perfect shape for your horse.

If you look after your rugs by repairing, washing and reproofing them when required, a cheaper rug can last your horse years. If you’re looking for deals on the best turnout rugs or best stable rugs at the higher end of the market, try checking the clearance sales at viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk, naylors.com or gsequestrian.co.uk

We’ve grouped our selections of the best budget rugs by type so that you can find what you’re looking for quickly…

• best budget turnout rugs
• best budget stable rugs
• best budget fly rugs

Best budget turnout rugs

JHL Essential turnout rugs

Fills: 0g, 80g, 200g, 350g

Style: Standard or combo

Outer: 600D ripstop

Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft

RRP: From £55 (for 0g) – £129.99 (350g)

H&H review: 9/10, H&H Approved

The JHL Essential range is owned by the same company as the Mark Todd collection. These rugs have a 600D ripstop outer, nylon lining and fully taped seams. They benefit from anti-rub shoulder linings, shoulder gussets and a gusseted tail flap. They fasten with adjustable buckle and clips at the chest, adjustable cross surcingles and adjustable, removable leg straps. They also have fleece protection at the wither, and the standard necks have three D rings to attach a neck cover that can be purchased separately.

We’ve tested and reviewed the 200g medium weight JHL Essential turnout as well as the 80g lightweight.

View the 0g standard neck at viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

View the 80g standard neck at viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

View the 200g standard neck at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

View the 200g combo now at viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

View the 350g combo now at gsequestrian.co.uk

WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Classic turnout rugs

Fills: 0g,100g, 220g, 300g

Style: Standard or combo neck

Outer: 600D ripstop

Sizes: 4ft – 7ft3in

RRP: From £87.99 (0g standard) – £109.99 (combo 300g)

WeatherBeeta produces high quality rugs that consistently score well when we review them. The ComFiTec Classic range has the least frills, but still benefits from all the WeatherBeeta patterns and technologies. The rugs have a 600D ripstop outer shells that are waterproof and breathable, and they all have a lining, traditional side gusset and twin adjustable front buckle fastenings. They also feature fleece at the wither, adjustable and removable leg straps, twin low cross surcingles and a standard tail flap. The standard neck rugs are fitted with three D rings to attach necks that can be purchased separately. All rugs have a three year warranty on hardware, waterproofness and breathability.

View the 0g standard neck now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk, equus.co.uk or naylors.com

View the 0g combo now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk, equus.co.uk or naylors.com

View the 100g standard neck now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk, equus.co.uk or naylors.com

View the 100g combo now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or equus.co.uk

View the 220g standard neck now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or equus.co.uk

View the 220g combo now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or equus.co.uk

View the 300g combo now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or equus.co.uk

Shires Typhoon turnout rugs

Fills: 0g, 100g, 200g

Style: Standard or combo

Outer: 840D

Sizes: 4ft – 7ft3in

RRP: From £48.99 (for 0g standard) – £70.99 (for 200g combo)

The Typhoon turnouts have a higher denier than any other rug in this guide – so they could be your best option if you’re shopping for a rug tearer. They have T-bar chest fastenings, adjustable cross surcingles and a fillet strap, which makes them quick and easy to put on and remove. The combo neck covers have touch-tape fastenings, and the waterproof and breathable outer shell has taped seams and a durable, water-repellent finish.

View the 0g standard neck now at viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

View the 0g combo now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

View the 100g standard now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

View the 100g combo now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

View the 200g standard neck now at viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

View the 200g combo now at viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

Horseware Amigo Hero Ripstop turnout rugs

Fills: 0g, 50g, 100g, 200g | Style: Standard | Outer: 600D ripstop | Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft | RRP: From £69.95 (0g) – £97.95 (200g) |

The Amigo Hero is Horseware’s most budget-friendly range – the range itself is quite large, but the 600D branch is the cheapest. The rugs benefit from a shine-enhancing lining to prevent rubbing, plus front leg arches to offer freedom of movement, two cross surcingles and a tail strap for a secure fit. The rugs have a classic cut with a twin T-bar chest fastening.

View the 0g now at gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

View the 50g now at gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

View the 100g now at gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

View the 200g now at gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

GS Equestrian turnout rugs

Fills: 0g, 200g

Style: Standard or combo

Outer: 600D ripstop

Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft

RRP: From £30.95 (0g standard) – £62.95 (200g combo)

These turnout rugs are fuss free, which keeps the price down. They have twin T-bar chest closures, adjustable cross surcingles, tail flap, fillet string and full combo neck.

View the 0g standard neck now at gsequestrian.co.uk

View the 0g combo now at gsequestrian.co.uk 

View the 200g standard neck now at gsequestrian.co.uk

View the 200g combo now at gsequestrian.co.uk

Mackey Equi-sential turnout rugs

Fills: 0g, 200g

Style: Standard

Outer: 600D ripstop

Sizes: 4ft – 7ft

RRP: From £63.95 (0g) – £71.95 (200g)

These Mackey turnout rugs are simple with no frills to add extra expense. They have a 600D waterproof and breathable outer, and have a T-bar front closure, low cross surcingles and adjustable tail strap.

View the 0g now at viovet.co.uk 

View the 200g now at viovet.co.uk

Best budget stable rugs

Shires Tempest Original stable rugs

Fills: 100g, 200g, 300g

Style: Standard, combo or detachable neck

Outer: 210D

Sizes: 4ft – 7ft3in (dependent on neck style)

RRP: From £53.99 (100g standard)

The Tempest Original stable rugs come in a variety of neck options as well as weights – and are the only collection of stable rugs in this guide that has the option of a detachable neck. They fasten with buckles at the chest, adjustable cross surcingles and a fillet string.

View the 100g standard neck now at viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or equus.co.uk

View the 100g combo now at viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk, naylors.com or equus.co.uk

View the 100g detachable neck now at viovet.co.uk or equus.co.uk

View the 200g standard neck now at viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk, naylors.com or equus.co.uk

View the 200g combo now at viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or equus.co.uk

View the 200g detachable neck now at viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or equus.co.uk

View the 300g standard neck now at viovet.co.uk, naylors.com or equus.co.uk

View the 300g combo now at viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or equus.co.uk

View the 300g detachable neck now at viovet.co.uk or equus.co.uk

JHL Essential Stable Rug

Fill: 150g, 250g, 350g

Style: Standard neck

Outer: 600D

Sizes: 5ft 6in – 7ft

Colours: Black/burgundy

RRP: £46.99 (150g), £49.99 (250g), £64.99 (350g)

This stable rug has a 600D polyester outer, nylon lining, adjustable double front buckles and low cross surcingles. It also features reinforced nylon anti-rub shoulders, fleece wither protection and shoulder gussets for additional movement.

View 150g now at viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

View 250g now at viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

View 350g now at gsequestrian.co.uk

Whitaker Thomas stable rug

Fills: 250g

Style: Standard

Outer: 210D

Sizes: 4ft9in – 7ft

RRP: £29.95

This stable rug fastens with double chest buckles and cross surcingles. It also has a fleece with pad.

View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or equus.co.uk 

WeatherBeeta ComFiTec 210D Channel Quilt Stable Rugs

Fills: 110g, 250g, 400g

Style: Standard or combo

Outer: 210D

Sizes: 4ft – 7ft3in (dependent on neck style)

RRP: From £62.99 (110g standard)

Dependent on the fill weight and neck style you opt for, these stable rugs fasten with either one or two adjustable buckles at the chest. They feature a polyester lining and 100% boa fleece wither, plus also have twin low cross surcingles, a tail cord and loops for optional leg straps.

View the 110g standard neck now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk, naylors.com, equus.co.uk, gooutdoors.co.uk or decathlon.co.uk

View the 110g combo neck now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk, naylors.com, equus.co.uk, gooutdoors.co.uk or decathlon.co.uk

View the 250g standard neck now at viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk, equus.co.uk or decathlon.co.uk

View the 250g combo neck now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk, naylors.com, equus.co.uk, gooutdoors.co.uk, sportsdirect.com or decathlon.co.uk

View the 400g combo neck now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk, naylors.com, equus.co.uk, gooutdoors.co.uk or decathlon.co.uk

You might also like:

10 stable rugs your horse will thank you for

12 rain sheets/no-fill turnouts to protect your horse from showers

A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

Best medium weight turnout rugs for chillier days

From racoons to tractors and Thelwell ponies – here’s 33 patterned rugs you’ll want to kit your horse out in

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The best exercise sheets for horses keep your horse’s back warm and dry during warm-ups, cool-downs, or hacks, especially for clipped horses. Some are waterproof, while others feature hi-viz colours, making them ideal for safety on dull, wintery days. If you’re looking specifically for hi-viz options, we’ve grouped the best hi-viz exercise sheets separately for easy browsing.

Exercise sheets come in various designs: some fit under the saddle, others wrap around it for convenience, and some cover the saddle completely. Many feature a cutaway front for better leg contact and secure with touch-tape fastenings, offering practicality and comfort.

Best exercise sheets for all seasons: H&H’s quick guide

Ideal for chilly mornings: Mark Todd Waterproof Exercise Sheet

Exercise sheet with the best coverage: Finer Equine Ride-On Exercise Sheet

Best hi-viz exercise sheet: WeatherBeeta Reflective Wrap Around Exercise Sheet

Best budget hi-viz exercise sheet for hacking: Equisafety Polite Mesh Quarter Rug

Mark Todd Waterproof Exercise Sheet

Colours: Navy

Sizes: 4ft6in – 5ft

RRP: £44.99

H&H Review: 9/10

Reasons to buy

• Waterproof and breathable
• Fleece lining adds extra warmth
• Fits securely without shifting during rides

Reasons to avoid

• If you’re being picky – limited colour options

Made from 600D ripstop fabric, this rug has a fleece lining and hook and loop wither fastening. It’s cut away at the girth to ensure you can maintain good leg contact and also features reflective piping and twin reflective strips, a large tail flap and fillet string.

It was tested for H&H by international grade V para rider Tamsin Addison who said: “This rug was the most popular among our team. We really like how well it fitted all the horses. We think it’s great value for money and are struggling to find anything to fault about it.”

Read H&H’s independent Mark Todd Waterproof Exercise Sheet review.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or hopevalleysaddlery.co.uk

Finer Equine Ride-On Exercise Sheet

Colours: Navy or hi-viz yellow

Sizes: S–L

RRP: From £145

Reasons to buy

• The contoured design covers the saddle and horse in one piece
• Waterproof, breathable, and slip-resistant for wet conditions
• Faux sheepskin lining adds warmth and comfort

Reasons to avoid

• Premium price point may not suit all budgets

A standout choice for riders prioritizing performance, this sheet combines luxury and functionality. Its contoured design doubles as a saddle protector, with a slip-resistant outer for security in wet weather, making it a great investment for winter riding.

In the UK? View the hi-viz version at amazon.co.uk or the regular version at amazon.co.uk

WeatherBeeta Thermocell Quarter Sheet

Colours: Navy/white/grey

Sizes: XS–XL

RRP: £54.99

Reasons to buy

• Lightweight yet warm design
• Excellent wicking properties to keep your horse dry
• Easy to attach and remove with touch-tape straps

Reasons to avoid

• Not suitable for use in wet conditions, as it lacks waterproofing

This versatile exercise sheet is perfect for colder weather, offering warmth without bulk. Its multi-layer fabric efficiently wicks away moisture while keeping your horse comfortable, making it ideal for cool mornings or light exercise.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk and viovet.co.uk

DefenceX System Cool Control Exercise Sheet

Colours: Navy/red

Sizes: 4ft6in – 5ft

RRP: £59.99

Reasons to buy

• Moisture-wicking properties work well
• The extra insulating layer makes it extra warm
• Also very easy to attach and remove

Reasons to avoid

• Limited color and size options can make availability tricky during peak demand

This practical sheet excels at keeping your horse comfortable during cooler weather. The clever quilted design wicks away sweat while the added insulation prevents chills, making it a reliable option for hacks or schooling sessions.

In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

LeMieux Arika Exercise Sheet

Colours: Navy

Sizes: S–XL

RRP: £49.95

Reasons to buy

• Waterproof outer with moisture-wicking fleece lining
• Allows free leg movement for the rider
• Reflective strips for added safety during low light

Reasons to avoid

• Not as warm as insulated or padded sheets for extreme cold

This sheet is an excellent choice for light exercise or warm-ups, combining functionality with a thoughtful design. With a waterproof outer layer and a soft microfleece lining, it effectively shields against rain while wicking moisture to prevent chills. Its clever cut wraps neatly around the saddle, leaving the rider’s leg free for unrestricted movement, and the velcro tab attachments make it quick and easy to fit. Reflective strips on the hindquarters add visibility.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk 

Shires Tempest Original Fleece Exercise Sheet

Colours: Newmarket stripe

Sizes: 48–60in

RRP: £24.99

Reasons to buy

• Lightweight and breathable
• Secure fit with girth loops and fillet string
• Affordable and great for everyday use

Reasons to avoid

• Limited style options compared to more premium exercise sheets

This exercise sheet offers excellent value for money and is particularly suited for cool but dry weather conditions. Made from lightweight, quick-drying fleece in a classic colour, it wicks moisture effectively to prevent overheating, making it ideal for light exercise or warming up. The sheet features girth loops and a fillet string for secure and easy fitting, with a wrap-around design that ensures it stays in place.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk and gsequestrian.co.uk

Rhinegold Embroidered Fleece Cutaway Ride-on Rug

Colours: Navy

Sizes: Pony – extra-full

RRP: £24.50

Reasons to buy

• Anti-pill fleece is soft, warm, and moisture-wicking
• A lightweight design, ideal for cooler weather
• Cutaway shape for better rider-leg contact

Reasons to avoid

• Limited size and colour options

This ride-on rug is a practical, budget-friendly option for maintaining your horse’s comfort during light exercise or hacking. Made from high-quality anti-pill fleece, it provides warmth and comfort for your horse while wicking away moisture. The rug is designed with a cutaway front to allow free leg movement and features touch-tape fastenings for a secure fit. The metallic rope twin binding and decorative embroidery on the quarters add an elegant finish.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk and ebay.co.uk

Premier Equine Stratus Exercise Sheet

Colours: Black, powder blue or orange

Sizes: M–XL

RRP: £68

Reasons to buy:

• Durable and warm, with breathable fabric
• Lightweight and easy to handle, making it ideal for cooler weather conditions
• Reflective strips for better visibility

Reasons to avoid:

• Some riders find the sizing runs a bit large, which might impact fit

Made with a waterproof ripstop outer and a stay-dry lining, this Premier Equine exercise sheet is a budget-friendly choice for riders looking to keep their horses comfortable during cooler weather exercise. It offers warmth without adding extra bulk. The design includes reflective elements to enhance safety, while the cut ensures easy movement and rider contact. Perfect for light schooling or hacking, this exercise sheet is a practical and stylish addition to any riding kit.

In the UK? View now at ebay.co.uk

Whitaker Rothwell Roll-up Rain Sheet

Colours: Navy

Sizes: S–L

RRP: £39.50

Reasons to buy:

• Lightweight and breathable for everyday use
• Compact roll-up design with an included storage bag
• Reflective strips and stirrup holes allow for safe use during rides in rainy weather

Reason to avoid:

• Not insulated, which may not provide enough warmth on colder days

This rain sheet is perfect for on-the-go riders, offering protection in unexpected showers. Its compact design and waterproof fabric make it a practical addition to your kit, particularly for mild, wet conditions. It can also be rolled up and stored compactly in its accompanying bag, making it a great choice for travel and unexpected showers.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

Best hi-viz exercise sheets for horses

WeatherBeeta Reflective Wrap Around Exercise Sheet

Colours: Silver/black

Sizes: XS–XL

RRP: £94.99

Reasons to buy:

• Highly reflective material
• Showerproof and breathable, offering comfort and protection during damp conditions
• Easy to use with secure touch tape closures, making it simple to put on and take off quickly

Reason to avoid:

• Not fully waterproof, which limits its effectiveness in heavy rain

The WeatherBeeta Reflective Wrap Around Exercise Sheet is designed for riders who prioritize safety during early morning or evening rides. It combines a reflective outer layer with a showerproof and breathable fabric, ensuring your horse stays comfortable and visible. The sheet’s wrap-around style allows for easy application, while features like a tail flap add extra coverage for light rain and wind protection. Perfect for everyday use in variable weather, it’s a reliable choice for safer rides.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or naylors.com

Equisafety Polite Mesh Quarter Rug

Colours: Yellow

Sizes: Extra-small pony – extra-full

RRP: £45.99

Reasons to buy:

• Lightweight and breathable mesh fabric keeps your horse cool and comfortable during warm weather
• High-visibility design
• Effective at keeping flies and insects at bay with a large tail flap for added coverage.

Reason to avoid:

• Not suitable for heavy rain or very cold conditions

The Equisafety Polite Mesh Quarter Rug is one of those items you’ll love if you do a lot of summer riding. It’s super light and airy, which means your horse stays cool while you remain visible to drivers –especially with the bright, reflective design that mimics police markings. This rug is perfect if you want something easy to throw on for a quick, safe ride in warm weather.

In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk 

Shires Equi-Flector Waterproof Exercise Sheet

Colours: Yellow, pink or orange

Sizes: 48–60in

RRP: £55.99

Reasons to buy:

• Bright, high-visibility colours make it easy to see your horse in low light
• Waterproof with a cosy fleece lining
• Easy to fit around the saddle or rider’s legs due to the flexible continental pattern

Reason to avoid:

• Limited size and colour options

This sheet is an excellent choice for riders who need visibility and weather protection. Featuring a vibrant waterproof shell with reflective elements and a warm fleece lining, it is perfect for colder, darker conditions. Its adjustable fit and user-friendly design makes it ideal for winter training or early-morning rides

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk 

Shires Equi-Flector Mesh Exercise Sheet

Colours: Yellow or orange

Sizes: 48–60in

RRP: £23.99

Reasons to buy:

• Lightweight and breathable mesh keeps your horse cool and comfortable, even in warmer weather
• Reflective strips on both sides and the tail flap increase visibility, making it ideal for low-light conditions
• Secure and easy to fit

Reason to avoid:

• Not fully waterproof, so it’s not suitable for heavy rain or very wet conditions.

This sheet is a great pick if you want to keep your horse visible and comfortable during rides in low-light or mild weather. It’s designed to be both practical and safe, with bright, reflective materials that catch the light well. It’s perfect for hacking or road work when you need a bit of extra visibility without overheating your horse.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or naylors.com

Hy Silva Flash Exercise Sheet

Colours: Silver/black

Sizes: 4ft6in – 5ft

RRP: £49.99

Reasons to buy:

• Highly reflective outer fabric
• A waterproof design with a comfortable fit keeps your horse dry without overheating
• Lightweight and easy to adjust with touch-tape fastenings

Reason to avoid:

• Limited insulation, which may not be warm enough for extremely cold conditions

If you’re looking for a reliable exercise sheet that boosts visibility, the Hy Silva Flash Exercise Sheet is a fantastic option. Its reflective silver fabric is designed to catch light brilliantly, making sure you and your horse are seen on the road. Plus, it’s lightweight and waterproof, making it perfect for mild-weather rides where you want to stay dry and visible without adding bulk.

In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk 

Equisafety Mercury Wraparound Rug

Colours: Yellow, pink or orange

Sizes: XS show pony – extra-full

RRP: £84.99

Reasons to buy:

• Highly reflective silver fabric
• Lightweight and fully waterproof
• Breathable and wicking, designed to prevent overheating

Reason to avoid:

• The fabric is not rip-stop, which makes it vulnerable to snags from brambles or sharp branches

The Equisafety Mercury Wraparound Rug is a fantastic choice if you prioritise visibility and protection in all weather conditions. The reflective material lights up brilliantly when hit by headlights or street lights, making it perfect for dark or cloudy rides. It’s also practical for everyday use, thanks to its lightweight, waterproof construction and breathability, which keeps your horse comfortable during exercise.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

Hy Reflector Exercise Sheet

Colours: Yellow, pink or orange

Sizes: 4ft6in – 5ft

RRP: £41.99

Reasons to buy:

• Reflective strips boost visibility
• Lightweight and breathable, ideal for mild weather
• Easy to secure with touch-tape fastenings around the saddle

Reason to avoid:

• Not suitable for heavy rain, as it lacks full waterproofing

This fleece-lined exercise sheet is a practical choice for riders who need enhanced visibility during twilight or early morning rides. It offers a good balance of comfort and safety, being lightweight and easy to fit, making it a reliable option for everyday use in moderate weather. It has reflective piping around the edges and a double reflective strip on both sides and across the tail flap. It’s also cut away to fit snugly around the saddle, shaped around the front to enable the rider’s leg to sit close to the horse’s side and fastened with touch tape around the front of the saddle. It’s also available as a mesh exercise sheet.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk 

Does my horse need an exercise sheet?

Whether your horse needs an exercise sheet depends on the weather, their coat, and the type of work you’re doing. Clipped horses or those ridden in cold, wet, or windy conditions often benefit from the added warmth and protection an exercise sheet provides. High-visibility options are also a must for safety during low-light hacks.

However, hardy horses or those working in mild conditions may not need one. For sensitive or less robust horses, a well-fitted exercise sheet can enhance comfort and performance. Ultimately, it’s about tailoring to your horse’s needs and the environment to keep them comfortable and protected.

How to fit an exercise sheet on a horse?

Fitting an exercise sheet correctly ensures your horse stays comfortable and protected. Begin by placing the sheet over your horse’s hindquarters, ensuring it sits evenly and covers the back and sides without slipping. If the sheet wraps around the saddle, secure it with touch-tape fastenings or straps, making sure it doesn’t bunch or restrict movement.

Check that the sheet allows freedom of movement for your horse’s shoulders and legs, especially if you’re using a cutaway design. Adjust the fillet string or rear fastenings for a snug but not tight fit, ensuring the sheet won’t shift during exercise. A well-fitted sheet stays securely in place and offers optimal protection without causing discomfort.

You might also be interested in:

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

If you’ve been holding out for a great deal on one of Equilibrium’s massage products, this bank holiday weekend sale could be exactly what you’ve been waiting for.

Equilibrium Products has announced that all massage pads, mitts, magnetic chaps, rugs and the associated accessories, including batteries, chargers, magnets and heat packs, will be reduced by 25% for the entire weekend (until 31 May or while stocks last). Here are our favourite deals at a glimpse or check out the full sale at equilibriumproducts.com

Top deals from Equilibrium Products

View the full sale at equilibriumproducts.com

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£95

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

The best travel rugs for horses are versatile and often double up as cooler rugs and show rugs, or vice versa, as they share a lot of main features. They should be breathable and wicking in order to prevent overheating and keep your horse at a consistent temperature while traveling, but they also need to keep your horse warm if he’s standing around at a competition.

As with any rug, a good fit is important, as is good quality materials and fastenings. The fastenings should also be easy to use as you’re likely to find yourself putting it on and taking it off in some trickier than usual situations — the last thing you want on the morning of your dressage test at a new venue is a rug that’s tricky to take off.

A really good travel rug will last and you’ll find yourself using it time and time again, whatever the season. Finally, if you’re planning on travelling your horse in your new rug to competitions, it’s a bonus if it’s smart and matches your travel boots.

Best travel rugs for horses

WeatherBeeta Wick Dri II Cooler Combo Neck

Colours: Charcoal/blue/white | Sizes: 4ft – 7ft3in | RRP: £84.99 |

This lightweight, breathable and highly wickable cooler from Weatherbeeta has a Cooldry fleece upper to offer additional protection to the major muscle groups and a mesh lower for airflow. It has a combo neck with a hideaway neck pocket with touch-tape closure to easily fold the neck portion away. It has a fleece wither relief panel, single adjustable buckle front closure, single hidden adjustable surcingle and tail cord.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

DefenceX System WicX Cooler Rug With Detachable Neck Cover

Colours: Navy | Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft3in | RRP: £69.99 |

This sophisticated cooler rug made by Hy is breathable and will help wick away moisture from the body, making it ideal for after exercise, bathing or while travelling. It looks smart and the detachable neck cover, top and front of the rug are lined with soft navy fleece to provide comfort and warmth. The fleece-lined wither area prevents rubbing and the adjustable surcingle is fastened under the rug for a discrete finish.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

LeMieux Arika Air-Tek Sheet

Colours: Black, grey or burgundy | Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft | RRP: £49.95 |

This very light mesh sheet from LeMieux is ideal for the hottest conditions and the linear cooling strips provide maximum air flow over the whole body. The lined chest section has an adjustable front fastening to aid a good fit along with simple cross surcingles. There is an embroidery area on the back corner for personalisation.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk or naylors.com

Mark Todd Coolex Cooler

Colours: Navy/white, navy/red, burgundy/white, black/silver or grey/plum | Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft | RRP: £69.99 |

This multi-purpose rug by Mark Todd is made from an advanced triple layer fabric that ensures optimum temperatures are consistently maintained – cool on warm days and warm on cold days. It can also be used when your horse is wet – for example, if you wash him off before heading home.

In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

Rhinegold Smart-Tec Waffle Weave Cooler Rug

Colours: Turquoise check | Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft3in | RRP: From £34.99 |

This Rhinegold rug is described as technically advanced – it spreads moisture over a wider surface area for faster evaporation, which prevents a chill. It features double chest straps, cross-over surcingles and a fillet string.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk

Supreme Products Dotty Fleece Rug

Colours: Red or pink | Sizes: 3ft3in – 7ft | RRP: £34.99 |

This smart and versatile soft fleece rug by Supreme Products features a soft fleece wither area, twin front closures, two adjustable surcingles and a filet string keeping it firmly in place offering a comfortable fit.

In the UK? View now at gsequestrian.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

Thermatex Original SHR

Colours: 23 options | Sizes: 4ft – 7ft3in | RRP: From £179.95 |

This Thermatex rug is made of three layers of fabric that each works in its own way to help keep horses at their optimum body temperature. When placed on a wet horse, the fabric draws away the moisture before releasing it into the atmosphere, and the middle layer of polypropylene ensures your horse remains warm and comfortable.

In the UK? View now at ebay.co.uk

Premier Equine Ventoso Mesh Cooler

Colours: Green, navy or black | Sizes: 5–7ft | RRP: £44 |

This Premier Equine mesh cooler works on the basis of allowing the dispersion of warmth and the transportation of moisture while maximising breathability to aid drying. It has a fleece wither pad, lined chest with T-bar front chest fastening and is anti-static treated.

In the UK? View now at ebay.co.uk

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Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

The best show rugs for horses are versatile. Not only do they need to keep your horse looking clean and smart, but as your horse is likely to be standing around between classes, a good show rug should keep him warm on a chilly day and help him cool down on a warm day – breathable and wicking properties are essential here.

The best show rugs can also be used for travelling, which means you only need one rug all day, saving you from packing a full wardrobe. You’ll be thankful for the simple fastenings that feature on most show rugs, too, tack when you’re rushing to your next class and your horse is slightly more on his toes than normal.

We’ve rounded up a range of the best show rugs – some boast a range of technical features, while others are super-smart – and we’ve also rounded up the best technical coolers and the best travel rugs, if you’re looking for something more specific.

Best show rugs for horses

WeatherBeeta Thermocell Standard Neck Cooler

Colours: Navy/white | Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft3in | RRP: £99.99 |

This smart and versatile cooler from Weatherbeeta has an ultra-soft feel and stylish design. Made with multi-layer fabric, it is lightweight but warm with excellent wicking properties to keep your horse dry and comfortable. It features a single adjustable front surcingle closure, low cross surcingles and tail cord.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk or naylors.com

DefenceX System Deluxe Fleece Rug

Colours: Navy | Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft3in | RRP: £49.99 |

A luxurious addition to any wardrobe, this rug made by Hy can be used in a wide variety of situations. It is made from a soft fleece fabric that traps the air to help keep your horse warm, while also wicking moisture away from the skin to prevent a wet horse getting cold. It featuring a rolled cushioned neckline to prevent rubbing, a single touch-tape fastening at the front and adjustable cross surcingles.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

LeMieux Four Seasons Rug

Colours: Black or navy | Sizes: 5ft3in – 6ft9in | RRP: £139.95 |

This smart rug from LeMieux has great thermal and wicking qualities – it wicks away moisture through its top layer while the fleece inner lining allows air flow to keep your horse warm and dry. It is finished with braided rope detailing and has a deep, rolled back collar for maximum comfort and security. It is fully adjustable with twin front straps that allow for more freedom of movement.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk 

Shires Tempest Original Team Shires Show Rug

Colours: Navy/red | Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft | RRP: £59.99 |

This Shires rug is described as a great all-rounder with a show style. Lightweight and quick drying, it also wicks away excess moisture to prevent chilling and helps regulate temperature so is ideal for shows, travelling, after bathing and exercise. It features a SupaFleece neck trim, buckle chest straps, adjustable cross surcingles and a fillet string.

In the UK? View now at viovet.co.uk 

Supreme Products Show Sheet

Colours: Black/gold | Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft | RRP: £49.99 |

This lightweight and breathable show sheet from Supreme Products is great for use while travelling or during busy days at competitions. It will protect your horse from dust and dirt, keeping them clean and pristine ready for the ring. It has double chest fastenings, adjustable cross surcingle straps and fillet string, as well as a fleece-lined wither. It is finished with gold trim and the Supreme Products logo for a smart look.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

Mark Todd Pro Stable Sheet

Colours: Navy | Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft | RRP: £59.99 |

This Mark Todd rug features a 1000D water-resistant, breathable ripstop outer and a soft moisture-wicking lining. It has easy front T-bar fixings, adjustable cross surcingles, fillet string and fleece wither protection.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or gsequestrian.co.uk

Masta Fleece Rug

Colours: Black | Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft6in | RRP: £60 |

Made from breathable, wicking fleece fabric with a soft anti-pill finish, this Masta rug can be used for travelling, stabling, after bathing or exercise. It features an anti-rub lining at the chest and has a fleece wither pad to reduce rubbing. It also has twin T-bar fastenings to the front, cross surcingles and a fillet string, and is finished with metallic silver piping for a stylish finish. Also available with fixed neck.

In the UK? View now at amazon.co.uk

You might also like:

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Are you on the search for a new travel rug for your horse? Check out this selection of the best

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7 cooler rugs to consider for your four-legged friend

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Weatherbeeta ComFiTec 600D/Mesh II Combo Neck fly rug

My first impressions of the Weatherbeeta waterproof fly rug were very positive and having now used the rug for a full summer season, I’m still a fan. It is quite lightweight, but has proven to be hard wearing with good quality fastenings that are to the task. The material is very soft and pliable from first wear and the rug contours well around the horse’s body. It also has some clever design features, including a memory foam pad that sits either side of the withers to reduce pressure on this sensitive area, which is a new design addition that was not included in the previous version of this rug (Weatherbeeta ComFiTec 600D/Mesh Combo).

This is a full-neck fly rug with waterproof panel across the back and top of the neck to protect against the light rain showers during spring, summer and autumn, which makes it a useful addition to any horse owner’s equine wardrobe in Britain. However, it is also suitable for use as a standard fly rug on dry days. My horse has not shown any signs of sweating while wearing this rug on warmer dry spring days, and it has kept his back and neck dry when it has rained.

The front of the rug has a combination of clip and Velcro fastenings. The clips are easy to use and feel robust. The neck has two wide webbing straps that pass through metal fasteners before attaching back on themselves with Velcro. Each strap is shaped at the end, which makes them easier to pass through the metal fastener.

The rug has a “traditional side gusset” on the shoulder to allow the horse to move around without restriction in the field and the shoulders are lined to “help prevent rubbing or stretching”. The rug has retained its shape over time and has not rubbed my horse’s shoulders. The sides of the rug are sufficiently deep to wrap around the horse’s belly area, while the surcingles run under the belly parallel to each other, instead of following the more common cross pattern. There are webbing loops attached to the rug that the adjustable surcingles pass through to encourage the material to shape itself around the horse’s ribcage and offer fly protection to the belly area. This is a change in design compared to the previous version of this rug, which had a separate elasticated and adjustable belly wrap, and I believe it is a significant improvement.

The rear of the rug has a generously sized tail flap and detachable rear leg straps that are elasticated at one end to help keep the rug in place. Personally I prefer a single fillet string to secure the back of the rug, unless the weather is very windy. I have tested this rug both with the rear leg straps as supplied, and a single fillet string, and it has not slipped during use. The rear leg straps are adjustable and the clips are robust and easy to use.

I tested the 6ft6in rug on my 16.2 Irish Sport Horse and I feel the sizing of the rug is pretty true. He appears very happy to move around in the field wearing the rug, which was good to see. The rug showed no signs of wear after use throughout spring, summer and autumn. I’ve also not had any issues with static when removing the rug, which can occur with some fly rugs.

Verdict

H&H Approved: While not the cheapest on the market, this is a good quality fly rug that offers protection from both flies and damp weather. I would recommend it.

Who tested this waterproof fly rug?

Carol Phillips is Horse & Hound’s website editor, who has ridden since childhood. She has an Irish Sport Horse who has put this rug to the test.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

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