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

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

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

How to fit a rug correctly to keep your horse comfortable

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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.

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?

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

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

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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

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

9 ice boot options to cool horse’s legs effectively

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.

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

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

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 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

Shires Tempest Plus 100g combo stable rug

My first impressions of this Shires Tempest Plus stable rug were that it looked fairly traditional, with double buckle front fastenings, cross surcingles, a tail flap and soft filet string included. I am testing the combo version of the rug with the fixed neck and the 1200D outer looked like it would be hard-wearing.

My horse is a middleweight Irish Sport Horse who typically takes a 6ft6in rug, which is the size we are testing. Both the depth and length of the rug was good on him, although I thought the neck was a little on the short side, especially when my horse put his head down to eat his hay off the floor.

The two straps on the neck section fasten with hook and loop attachments. A useful tab on the end of the webbing strap makes them easy to slip through the metal loops when putting the rug on, and easy to pull undone when taking the rug off. There is soft plush material at the top of the neck.

The cross surcingles are easy to adjust and have a rubber ring on the metal T-bar fastenings, which helps prevent them coming undone accidentally.

Having used the rug pretty much every day for a couple of months, I’m pleased with it. It hasn’t slipped or rubbed. There are currently no signs of it rubbing out my horse’s mane. It has proven robust and has worn well. The fastenings are easy to use. On cold nights I’ve added a light under rug to it and my partly clipped horse has remained a good temperature. Although I was initially concerned that the length of the neck was a little on the short side, my horse appears quite happy and comfortable with it. My only recommendation would be to replace the basic cord fillet string with an elasticated and rubber coated one, as that would be much easier to keep clean.

Verdict

H&H Approved – This is a simple but well-designed, robust combo stable rug at a good price point.

View the 0g at viovet.co.uk 

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

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

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

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

Who tested this stable rug?

Carol Phillips is Horse & Hound’s website editor, who has ridden since childhood. She has a seven-year-old Irish Sport Horse who has put this rug to the test.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

You might also like:

10 stable rugs your horse will thank you for

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

Horseware Rambo Original Stable Rug: ‘warm, comfortable and a great fit’ 9/10

Find out how professional dressage rider and trainer Rob Waine rated this stable rug in Horse & Hound’s group test

£125.95

WeatherBeeta ComFiTec 210D Channel Quilt Combo Neck: ‘simple and good value’ 8/10

Find out how professional dressage rider and trainer Rob Waine rated this stable rug in Horse & Hound’s group test

£54.99

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. 

Patterned horse rugs have become a real trend over the past few years – we’re not surprised as they’re really cute and rather fun. There have been designs that have sold out in record time, while others have returned due to such popular demand. While zebra print fly rugs might spring to mind at first, you can also find patterned rain sheets, lightweight turnouts, medium weight turnouts, stable rugs and cooler rugs, too.

New designs are being released all the time so we can enjoy browsing online and kit our horses out with something new every year. Not only are they fun and super-cute, it’s also so much easier to find a pink-and-yellow-dinosaur-print rug among a sea of navy turnouts, so really they’re a no-brainer. Even better, you can often find matching items, such as travel boots and boot bags.

Here’s a selection we think you’ll love – or maybe love to hate – either way they’re a feast for the eyes and there are plenty of Thelwell rugs, too!

Best patterned horse rugs

Derby House Spring Bunny

This print is perfect for spring time!

• 50g standard turnout at rideawaystore.com

Shires Spring Morning

Another seasonal print for this time of year.

• 0g rain sheet at rideawaystore.com or naylors.com
• 0g neck cover at rideawaystore.com
• 100g combo turnout at rideawaystore.com

Weatherbeeta Turtle

This turtle print is really rather cute.

• 0g combo turnout at rideawaystore.com
• 100g combo turnout at rideawaystore.com

Derby House Funky Cow

This spring/summer-coloured cow print is particularly great for a piebald, skewbald or tri-coloured horse.

• 0g standard rain sheet at rideawaystore.com
• 0g combo turnout at rideawaystore.com
• standard neck fleece at rideawaystore.com

Shires Amethyst

Perfect for a purple lover.

• 0g rain sheet at rideawaystore.com
• 100g standard turnout at rideawaystore.com

WeatherBeeta Racoons

Your horse will look the cutest in his field wearing this pesky racoon print.

• 220g combo turnout at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, naylors.com, rideawaystore.com or equus.co.uk
• 200g standard turnout at rideawaystore.com or amazon.co.uk
• fleece cooler at rideawaystore.com or amazon.co.uk

Derby House Tie Dye

Like the retro look? Check out these tie dye designs.

• blue 100g combo turnout at rideawaystore.com
• blue 200g combo turnout at amazon.co.uk
• pink 100g combo stable rug at rideawaystore.com or amazon.co.uk
• blue fleece at rideawaystore.com

Shires Peacock

This elegant peacock print will have your horse feeling proud.

• 0g standard turnout at viovet.co.uk or amazon.co.uk
• 100g combo turnout at viovet.co.uk
• 200g combo turnout at viovet.co.uk or amazon.co.uk

Gallop Monarch

Do you have a horse who considers themselves royalty?

• blue 0g standard turnout at equus.co.uk or amazon.co.uk
• purple 100g standard turnout at equus.co.uk or amazon.co.uk
• red 200g combo turnout at equus.co.uk or amazon.co.uk
• navy 350g combo turnout at equus.co.uk or amazon.co.uk

Shires Lightning

This rug will be easier to identify in your pile of navy turnouts.

• purple 0g standard turnout at amazon.co.uk, naylors.com or rideawaystore.com
• teal 200g combo turnout at rideawaystore.com or amazon.co.uk
• teal 200 standard turnout at rideawaystore.com or amazon.co.uk

StormX King Of The Jungle

Is your horse king of his field? He’ll love this print with lions, elephants and giraffes.

• 0g standard turnout at equus.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

WeatherBeeta Marble Swirl

The blue/orange swirl pattern is new for SS22.

• blue/orange 0g standard turnout at equus.co.uk
• blue 220g standard turnout at amazon.co.uk
• blue 220g combo turnout at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or rideawaystore.com

WeatherBeeta Bees

Bees are very in at the moment – and these bees are particularly cute.

• 0g standard neck at rideawaystore.com or equus.com

Gallop Bees and Butterflies

This pretty print will look great in the summer.

• 0g turnout at amazon.co.uk, equus.co.uk or ebay.co.uk
• fly rug at amazon.co.uk and equus.co.uk

StormX Seaside Donkey

Have a horse who enjoys channeling his inner donkey? Here is the perfect print for him.

• 50g standard turnout at equus.co.uk

HKM Lauria Garrelli Sole Mio

Fashion is key with this floral pattern.

• fly rug at equus.co.uk

StormX Bee

Some more cute bees here, too.

• fly rug at viovet.co.uk, equus.co.uk or amazon.co.uk

Rhinegold Star

A starry option for the yard superstar – he deserves it.

• 0g standard turnout at amazon.co.uk
• 0g combo turnout at amazon.co.uk

StormX Merry Go Round

This cute pattern is perfect for a pony who would fit in well on a carousel.

• 0g standard turnout at amazon.co.uk
• 200g combo turnout at equus.co.uk, amazon.co.uk or ebay.co.uk

Swish Equestrian Pink

OK, this one’s not patterned, but it’s by far the brightest turnout we’ve come across – it’s perfect for anyone who has a passion for pink!

• 0g detachable neck turnout at amazon.co.uk
• 200g detachable neck turnout at amazon.co.uk
• 350g detachable neck turnout at amazon.co.uk
• 50g stable rug at amazon.co.uk
• 100g stable rug at amazon.co.uk

Gallop Dogs

Love dogs? So do we!

• 200g combo turnout at equus.co.uk or amazon.co.uk

StormX Tractor

The cutest print for a tractor-lover’s pony.

• 0g standard neck turnout at equus.co.uk

StormX Competition Ready

Got a competitive pony? This print is perfect for them.

• 50g standard turnout at equus.co.uk or amazon.co.uk

Whitaker Whiston Dotty

These fun spots will brighten up your horse’s wardorbe.

• 170g detachable neck at viovet.co.uk or rideawaystore.com

QHP Twist

Looking for some muted tones that will still stand out in your rug rack?

• 150g standard turnout at rideawaystore.com or amazon.co.uk
• 150g half neck turnout at rideawaystore.com
• 150g detachable neck turnout at rideawaystore.com or amazon.co.uk
• 300g standard turnout at rideawaystore.com
• 300g combo neck turnout at rideawaystore.com or amazon.co.uk

WeatherBeeta Camo

Your horse won’t be able to hide in the field with this camo print rug.

• 50 standard neck turnout at viovet.co.uk or rideawaystore.com

Ponyo Horsewear Juicy Watermelon

Possibly one of the cutest patterned horse rugs we’ve seen. These Ponyo rugs are available in a wide range of sizes (3ft – 6ft 9in) and in a variety of weights, so you can kit your horse out in a fun print whatever the weather. You can get matching travel boots, too.

StormX Snowy The Snowman

Get ready for winter with this cute snowman rug.

• 200g standard turnout at viovet.co.uk or equus.co.uk

Derby House Christmas Jumper

Get in the festive feeling with this Christmas jumper turnout.

• 100g standard turnout at rideawaystore.com or amazon.co.uk
• 200g combo turnout at rideawaystore.com or amazon.co.uk

Thelwell horse rugs

Hy StormX Thelwell collection

This Thelwell pattern is a limited edition – some places require pre-orders, but we’d say it’s definitely worth it. Available in 3ft – 7ft 3in, and they have other products in the collection, too!

• 0g standard turnout at rideawaystore.com, viovet.co.uk or equus.co.uk
• 200g combo turnout at amazon.co.uk, equus.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or rideawaystore.com
• 100g stable rug at viovet.co.uk or amazon.co.uk

Hy StormX Thelwell Country turnout

This stylish rug is covered in fun Thelwell sketches.

• 100g standard turnout at viovet.co.uk

StormX Thelwell Trophy print

This brighter Thelwell design is available in 3ft – 5ft3in, so it’s perfect for dinky ponies.

• 0g standard turnout at equus.co.uk or viovet.co.uk

StormX Thelwell Race print

This print is perfect for a little pony who loves to zoom.

• 50g standard turnout at equus.co.uk

You might also like:

A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

59 great gifts for the horse obsessed

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Official description

This anatomically shaped BR Classic cotton rug is made of strong poly cotton (65% cotton, 35% polyester). The chest is reinforced with an additional layer of poly cotton. The rug features two adjustable front straps with quick release clips and Velcro. In addition, the rug has a double stitched back seam with binding and a fleece wither protector. It further benefits from shoulder gussets; cross surcingles with elastic insert straps that are both adjustable and detachable and adjustable, detachable, elastic leg straps. The rug features zinc hardware with a matt silver-coloured finish. It is machine washable at 30°C.

First impressions

This rug looked smart, simple and well designed.

Overview of performance

This rug was smart enough to wear at a show and comfortable for the horses to wear in the stable. It stayed in place really well, but I did end up taking the elastic leg straps off as they were quite time consuming and weren’t needed.

Georgi’s likes and dislikes

I like that bedding never sticks to it. I also like the shoulder gussets as it gives the horses good movement in the stable, however, I did find that there are slightly too many straps and buckles.

Verdict

I would recommend this — it’s on the more expensive side, but it’s good value as it works in the stable and as a smart rug to go to shows in. It is quite generous in size.

Official description

The Kensington All Around day sheet is a lightweight poly cotton sheet that provides durable protection against dirt, biting insects and harmful UV rays. It is machine washable for easy care. This American rug brand, available exclusively from Shadow Horse, offers this sheet in a European cut, with features including buckles and keeper at the front closure, a lined chest, padded wither for mane protection, shoulder gussets, detachable elastic leg straps, two belly straps and a tail cover.

First impressions

I thought that the material was really nice and thin. The belly straps were clipped on both sides, which I was interested to see how that would work.

Overview of performance

Overall I really liked this rug – it looked really smart, was lightweight and fitted really well. I did find that the clips on the belly straps were too heavy and weighed down the lightweight material that the rug is made of. As a result, wanted to take them off completely but I felt that the rug would not stay in place without them.

Georgi’s likes and dislikes

I really like the colour and smart design of this rug, but the heavy double belly clips does it a disservice.

Verdict

It’s a smart yet practical rug for someone who either doesn’t mind the heavy belly clip or not having belly straps at all.

Official description

The WeatherBeeta Breeze with surcingle III is made of breathable and cool 270g polyester, with 210 denier polyester-lined shoulders. It features mesh panels for ultimate airflow, a wither relief pad, mane and tail flap to prevent rubbing, side gusset for freedom of movement, a full-wrap tail flap and a single chest strap. It has an adjustable hidden surcingle, plus an elasticated and removable leg strap.

First impressions

This rug had a neck and was different in design to the others — it seemed somewhere between a fly rug and a summer sheet.

Overview of performance

I found it tricky to find a purpose for this rug. The non-detachable neck meant that it wasn’t suitable for a smart show rug, and it didn’t really work as a stable rug as the neck made it quite warm. I found I used it more in the field, but it wasn’t waterproof so I didn’t want to use it if it looked like it was going to rain and it wasn’t as effective against the flies as a fly rug would be.

Georgi’s likes and dislikes

It is well made but is not a summer sheet, it’s more of an Aussie blanket. The sizing is also very generous.

Verdict

I personally have not used this as much as the others as it is not an essential piece of kit, but it would be good for someone who likes to have an extensive horse wardrobe.

Official description

The Masta Avante cotton summer sheet is made from 100% high quality cotton. The rug features an anti-rub satin chest, cross surcingles, fillet string and fleece wither pad for added comfort.

First impressions

I was quite put off by the thick, stiff material and the rug as a whole looked quite old fashioned.

Overview of performance

I found that this rug felt quite rigid even after being washed and as a summer sheet was slightly too thick compared to the others tested. My initial opinion of it being rather old fashioned proved to be correct.

Georgi’s likes and dislikes

It’s true to size, which is great, but I am not a fan of the stiff feel of the rug.

Verdict

I would recommend you see it before you buy it as you may love it or you might not.

Welcome to our group test of stable rugs. All of the rugs have been thoroughly tested on the yard of professional dressage rider and trainer Rob Waine. Find out what he thought below.

Official description

The Horseware Rambo Original Stable Rug is a classic cut design with double front closures, that has been updated to feature a cosy fleece collar around the neck and an integrated wither pad to lift the rug to help prevent mane or wither rubs. It has Thermobonded fibrefill for superior and long lasting heat retention. The rug includes a fillet string, cross surcingles and shine-enhancing polyester lining.

First impressions

I really liked the thick material as it looked really warm. It also fitted very well, plus the fastenings were easy to use and looked robust.

Overview of performance

This rug was true to size and very durable. The fastenings were easy to use and hard wearing. It never slipped, kept my horses really warm and didn’t rub.

Likes and dislikes

I like how roomy it is around the chest area compared to the other rugs, but yet is very warm. I also like how the fleece trim at the neck doesn’t rub.

Verdict

*Best in Test* This rug is definitely worth the price tag as it does exactly what it claims to do.

Welcome to our group test of stable rugs. All of the rugs have been thoroughly tested on the yard of professional dressage rider and trainer Rob Waine. Find out what he thought below.

Official description

The WeatherBeeta ComFiTec 210D Channel Quilt Combo Neck is a light to medium weight stable rug with a combo neck that can be folded back when not required. It has a 210 denier outer, 210T polyester lining with 110g of polyfill. The rug has an adjustable front buckle closure, twin low cross surcingles, a touch tape loop to fold back the combo neck and a tail cord.

First impressions

This rug was a good all-round fit that was true to size. I liked that the hood was non detachable.

Overview of performance

I found that this rug did not rub anywhere, all the fastening were easy to use, it was lightweight and worked really well as an under layer on a clipped horse during the cold winter months.

Likes and dislikes

I like how lightweight this rug is, making it very versatile as it can be used on its own in mild weather or under another rug when it is colder. It is not warm enough for a clipped horse in the depths of winter, but it is very good value for money.

Verdict

*Best Value* This rug is ideal as a simple, good value, warm under layer with a combo neck.

Welcome to our group test of stable rugs. All of the rugs have been thoroughly tested on the yard of professional dressage rider and trainer Rob Waine. Find out what he thought below.

Official description

Like a sweat rug, the Bucas Celtic Stable rug can be put on a wet horse to wick away moisture and help dry it faster. To help keep the rug fresh and in good condition it has an anti-bacterial lining and to avoid rubbing around the shoulders, a silk-feel lining is featured for comfort. This rug is available in three different weights; extra (300g insulation), medium (150g) and light (no fill). The test rug was medium.

First impressions

This looked to be a good, hard wearing rug with great fastenings and it fitted well.

Overview of performance

This rug was true to size along the back and fitted perfectly on the average shouldered horse (not a particularly wide horse). I felt that this rug did exactly what it says in the description and for overnight it worked well as a top rug, rather than a base one.

Likes and dislikes

I like all the clips and fastenings plus how hard wearing it is, but it is quite expensive and being a medium weight rug it is not quite as warm as the Horseware one.

Verdict

A great winter rug to layer with if you are willing to spend the money.

Our tester found the Rhino Original stable rug a blessing in the winter months

If you’re anything like me it takes a lot for me to find anything I enjoy about the winter. However one thing people are always telling me they enjoy about the winter months is tucking their horses away at night, in their stables, with a nice cosy rug. I’m still not sure I really understand this; I’d much prefer it to just be warm enough not to rug! However if I have to put up with sub-zero temperatures the Rhino Original stable rug definitely ticks the boxes of a cosy rug.

I had the original version of this rug to test. It therefore comes with a standard neck with the option of a neck. The rug is available as an ‘All-In-One’ but for me I much prefer the versatility that a detach neck rug offers. The other standout benefit of the original versus the all-in-one is the cosy fleece collar around the neck with an integrated wither pad to lift the rug which aids in preventing mane or wither rub.

The one thing I would say is that due to the neck design if I were to order this rug again I would go up a size. I love the neck on the rug, but I do think it would fit my horse better with a bit more room due to the style.

I love the outer of this rug which is made from a 1000D strong durable material. This has ensured the rug repels any moisture from a wet bed when they my horse lies down and has prevented rips.

The rug comes in two weights: medium that features a 200g fill and heavy that has a 400g fill. The thermobonded fiberfill claims to offer superior and long lasting heat retention. My horse certainly never seemed to feel the cold in this rug.

If you decide to use the detach neck with this rug this offers a 150g fill. Some people may be disappointed that there isn’t two versions of the neck, a 150g to go with the medium and a 250g to go with the heavy. I’m not keen on heavy necks as I find that if the horse gets too hot under a neck the mane can start falling out. But I do understand some people with a horse that particularly feels the cold would want a heavier neck fill. The neck is easy to attach and remove (pictured above) and is a good length; it covers the horse to his ears without going over them (pictured below).

Buy now: the Rhino Original stable rug

Verdict

Overall a super durable rug with a strong outer shell and clever cosy neck design to make it stand out.

While winter may be nearly here, this year the weather is still in limbo between mild and chilly, so don't miss these useful medium weight stable rugs for in-between temperatures

NB: The shopping links below are provided to help you buy these items. We earn a small commission from these links.

BR Passion stable rug

This rug features a 600 denier polyester outer with 240g of fill in the body, and a 120g fill tail flap.
 The rug is water repellent, breathable 
and anatomically formed with double stitched back seam and fleece collar. It also features double adjustable front buckles with quick release clips and Velcro closures, adjustable cross surcingles and adjustable, detachable elastic leg straps. There are also shoulder gussets and a rectangular, padded and quilted tail flap, plus three D-rings and Velcro on the outside, which allow the attachment of a neck cover. Available in black and sizes 165cm, 175cm, 185cm, 195cm, 205cm, 215cm.

Buy now: BR Passion stable rug from £74.95

Rambo stable rug 200g

The classic Rambo stable rug is extremely tough and durable and will keep the chill off your horse while in this stable this autumn, thanks to a strong 1000D ripstop polyester outer, smooth microfiber lining and soft thermo bonded fiberfill. The rug is complete with classic front closures, cross surcingles and a tail cord as standard. The rug is breathable with 200g fill. Available in black with pale grey and grey, or dark brown with beige and brown. Sizes 5’6-7’3.

Buy now: Rambo stable rug from £128.99

Mark Todd medium weight stable rug

This useful medium weight rug has a 210D outer in this smart checked fabric, a 150g insulation layer and an anti-rub nylon lining that polishes the horse’s coat. It also features adjustable quick-release front fastenings, cross surcingles and a fillet string. A matching neck cover is sold separately. Available in navy/white or black/white and sizes 5’6 to 7’.

Buy now: Mark Todd meduium weight stable rug from £46.78

JHL medium weight stable rug

This practical rug is ideal for most times of year and can be used on its own or as an extra layer. Features include a 600 denier outer fabric, 280g insulation, nylon anti-rub lining, adjustable twin breast fastenings, removable elasticated leg straps and a fillet string. Available in black/red and sizes 5’6 to 7’.

Buy now: JHL medium weight stable rug from £75

Catago 300g Stable Rug

This rug has a 420 denier outer fabric with 300g fibrefill and a smooth lining for comfort. The double adjustable front closure with clip hooks and D-rings, shoulder gusset, cross surcingles plus leg straps and tail flap all help give this rug a great fit. In addition the rug has a wide fleece collar which makes the rug extra comfortable for the horse and protects the mane.

Buy now: Catago 300g stable rug from £69.99

Masta Avante 300g stable rug

A traditional-style stable rug made from 210 denier plain weave Oxford polyester with a soft-feel lining. Generously cut, it is part diamond quilted and has a 300g insulating polyfill for warmth.

Buy now: Masta Avante 300g Stable rug from £47.54

Shires Highlander Original 200g Medium Weight Stable Rug

This rug and neck set has a 600 denier breathable outer with a cosy 200g polyfill. It is fully lined and has deep shoulder gussets for comfort, twin chest fastenings, adjustable surcingles, fillet string and a tail flap.

Buy now: Shires Highlander Original 200g Medium Weight Stable Rug from £89.99

Horseware Amigo Insulator 200g medium weight rug

This insulating stable rug features a 210 denier ripstop outer and a polyester lining to add shine to your horse’s coat. It has the classic Horseware Amigo cut with twin chest fastenings and adjustable surcingles.

Buy now: Horseware Amigo Insulator 200g Medium Weight Rug from £71.95

Weatherbeeta Comfitec 600D Channel Quilt Medium rug

Made from a strong 600 denier ripstop outer shell that has a channel quilt with a 210T polyester lining. Fitted with a quick clip front closure and a memory foam wither relief pad that contours to the horses shape and lifts the rug off the wither to reduce rubbing and give extra comfort. Other features include a fillet string and twin low cross surcingles.

Buy now: Weatherbeeta Comfitec 600D Channel Quilt Medium rug from £89.99

Horseandhound.co.uk is the home of expert buyers guides covering all things equestrian, from clippers to rugs, riding boots to safety hats. Whatever you’re looking for, we can help you to chose the products that really suit your needs.

This rug provided all that you could wish for from a rug and at a suitable price

The packaging and presentation of the Horseware Rambo rug I found to be simple, yet informative. I tested a 6’9″ blue, with white piping, heavyweight rug. It featured a detachable neck, v fastening chest straps and a rip stop material.

A great design provided a quality rug which fit very well. The v fastening chest straps allowed a perfect amount of movement over my horses shoulders, sparing him of any rub marks. Previously, I have layered rugs over the winter to create extra warmth, but this rug was insulating enough to be used alone.

On lying down, the rug was easily penetrated by wet bedding and droppings. My preference would be for the rug to have a tougher exterior to prevent this.

The placing and design of the neck attachment points, made for a well positioned neck cover that stayed in place even through rolling and lying down. The neck cover was also a great length and had two strong velcro fastenings.

I was also pleased with the depth of the rug, which accommodated the deep barrel of my horse well.

I would definitely recommend the rug to a friend. Points that the rug has in its favour outweigh any negatives. It provided all that you could wish for from a rug and at a suitable price.

Verdict

This rug provided all that you could wish for from a rug and at a suitable price

Our reviewer wouldn't hesitate to recommend this rug to anyone

I tried a 6’9″ blue/cream 200g Rhino stable rug. I found it to be a really versatile rug that I have used throughout the season, as a night rug, day rug and as an under layer.

It is really hard wearing and smart. The fit is fantastic, and it hasn’t rubbed at all, my horse is a stallion, and it isn’t always easy to find a rug to fit comfortably round his neck.

The hook and eye fastenings are easy to do up/undo, although the chest

fastenings are not adjustable, and while they are a great fit for my boy, I would be interested to see how the rug fits on a narrower horse. We have another Rhino stable rug in use on the yard which is over five-years-old, and still in great condition, so I am confident of the longevity of the product, and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it.

At £85 it is more expensive than the rugs of a similar weight that I would normally buy, but the versatility, quality and fit on my horse make it great value for money. There are also attachments for a neck rug, which I haven’t used, but having the option to add or remove this feature is great.

The colour options are not very exciting, but that wouldn’t put me off purchasing this rug again in the future.

Verdict

A great, versatile rug that our reviewer would recommend to anyone

These are not cheap rugs but they are high performance and durable, representing excellent value for money.

I tried two under-rugs from this range; the heavyweight (300g, pictured)) with the stay-dry lining, and the lighter rug (150g) with the silky lining.

While the thinner rug was a useful addition to my horse’s wardrobe in the spring and autumn, the heavier weight has become an absolute winter essential.

I work full-time so often ride late in the evenings and my horse isn’t always completely dry by the time I leave the yard. I used to have to call in favours and ask the yard owner to change my horse’s rug a couple of hours later — but not any more. I can happily leave the thick rug on my mare because it is breathable and wicking, so she dries off, stays warm and there’s less work to be done. Brilliant.

The rugs appear smart, too, and I particularly like the snap-close clips on the surcingles. They’re another time-saver and can be done up/undone even if I’m wearing gloves, which is handy in winter.

They are a very good fit on my horse. I did question whether shoulder gussets would improve the fit, but after using them for a number of months, there was no rubbing on the shoulders at all, and the mane was still intact; something I’ve struggled with for the past few years. I think it’s the shoulder darts that provide plenty of space inside the rug.

The Velcro at the chest with overlapping material means that the either side of the rug does not split apart and fold back, causing pressure points. The fastening at the chest is the t-hook and eye you’d normally expect to see on cross-surcingles, and at the chest the lie nice and flat – though they do limit the fitting adjustment in that area.

The neck rug was also easy to attach and stayed in place well. I like the simple Velcro fold-back closure system.

My only real criticism is that while I found the clips on the cross surcingles less fiddly than the usual T-hook design, they did clonk the horse hard on the legs if I was too enthusiastic chucking it on! I liked that the cross-surcingles were elasticated.

There is also no tail flap, but I suspect I was more concerned about my horse’s chilly tail than she was. And it kept the back of the rug cleaner, too.

The thin rug is a neat, useful allround stable rug, but the thicker, wicking one is a king among rugs.

I liked that, to convert into a turnout rug — or just for an extra layer of protection, the Velcro fastening system meant that both rugs could then be put on and taken off as one — another time-saver.

These are not cheap rugs but they are high performance and durable, representing excellent value for money.

Verdict

These are not cheap rugs but they are high performance and durable, representing excellent value for money.

Overall our reviewer loves the look, fit and quality of this rug

Brown 6’3’ heavily insulated rug with detachable full neck (pictured).

The rug uses all of the traditional fastenings one is used to on modern day rugs with a combination of

Velcro and standard surcingle clips.

The rug appeared very well designed and made. Its thickness suggested it would certainly retain warmth in cold weather and the overall fit on my 16’1 mare was very good.

She is extremely tough on rugs and it has stood up well in the main to daily use through the winter months. It was very helpful to have the option of removing the neck as this can allow fewer rug changes as it is suitable to simply remove the neck for daytime use etc.

The mare is extremely susceptible to losing hair at the lower end of her mane when neck rugs are used, but this did appear less than normal during the use of this particular rug, possibly due to its shiny inside lining, overall fit and the removable nature of the neck itself.

The sizing appeared to be very accurate and the depth of the rug was a good fit for my horse but would be interested to know if this followed through into the larger sizes. It was used in conjunction with one other rug and kept the horse very warm, although we didn’t experience the coldest weather this year, I feel confident it would have been up to the task.

The Velcro fastenings have withstood every day use very well and are still in good order without any clogging etc. However, there was a tab stitched to the end of the neck Velcro tabs to aid the user in undoing them and this failed quite early on, coming away completely, I presume due to failing stitching (pictured left).

Overall I love the look, fit and quality of the rug. It has stood up well to use, but possibly just needs some of the stitching looking at for the tabs on the neck straps.

I would happily recommend this rug to colleagues and friends.

Verdict

Overall I love the look, fit and quality of the rug. It has stood up well to use, but possibly just needs some of the stitching looking at for the tabs on the neck straps