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.

• For unlimited access to the latest product news, buying guides and reviews, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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

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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

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

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.

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

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

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 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.

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

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

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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.

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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.

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As parts of Britain have been battling with heavy rain, some UK horse owners have dug out their turnout rugs for the first time in a while and been reminded of some of the downsides of saying goodbye to summer...

1. Pulling off a sopping wet turnout rug off your horse and somehow wrapping yourself up in it like a cold, annoyed, living mummy in the process.

2. Trying to hang said soaking wet rug up while mud (at least you hope it’s mud) and water (at least you hope it’s water) drips all over you.

3. Noticing the amount of poo caked on the fillet string/tail flap/rear leg straps. Yeah, that’s nice.

4. Wishing like mad that you had a heated rug drier — the height of luxury! As it is, there are few places where you can spread out a heavy, wet six foot rug and realistically expect it to get dry.

5. Why won’t the blasted thing dry? Two days later, and it’s still as wet as when you took it off, but now it smells damp and stale, too.

6. At this point, someone always helpfully points out that, ‘If you leave it on the horse, it dries much quicker.’ Thanks for that.

7. That distinctive wet rug smell. Wet horse, mould and poo. Delightful.

8. If you’re not worrying when it’s blowing a gale and tipping down with ice-cold rain that your horse is too cold, and will be even colder if the rug somehow blows off…

9. Then you’re worrying that your horse is over-rugged and may be sweating.

10. How effective was that re-proofing done when you took it to be cleaned? You’re not convinced…

11. Trying to untwist surcingles/rear leg straps and fasten buckles with freezing cold fingers. Why is this so hard?

12. Your horse’s proud face as he trots up to you in the field with the neck/surcingle/front fastenings torn off and the rest of the rug flapping in the breeze. “I’ve been working on this all night, Mum”

There’s only one thing for it – you need to buy another rug…

If so, check these out:

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

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

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

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

• 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

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

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

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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

With the nights starting to draw in here in the UK, there is no denying that autumn is on its way. Make sure you and your horse are ready for the colder weather with our seasonal horse care guide.

1. Hardcore

Putting hardcore down in gateways before the winter will help these areas stay compact, and prevent them from becoming too muddy and slippery.

2. Winter rugs

If you didn’t get your winter rugs cleaned and repaired in the spring, now is the time to do it. Or if you need new rugs, it’s time to go shopping! Check out our guides to the best lightweights, medium weights, heavyweights and the best rugs if you’re on a budget.

3. Clippers

Get your clippers serviced and the blades sharpened by a specialist so you are ready to tackle those winter woolies. Watch our clipping masterclass video to learn how to clip like the experts.

4. Worming

Autumn is the ideal time to test horses for tapeworm and treat if necessary, while vets recommend all horses should be wormed for encysted small redworm during November/December. So now is the time to get organised and order your worming supplies, checking that the active ingredients are the right ones for the the types of worms you are targeting.

5. Bedding

Choose bedding wisely if your horse is to be stabled in the coming colder months. If your horse suffers from respiratory problems they may benefit from a dust-free bedding combined with rubber matting. You may find you can save yourself money by buying in bulk.

6. Dietary changes

If your horse is overweight, the next few months is the ideal time to slim him down. If he is inclined to lose weight, now is the time to start thinking about his autumn/winter feeding regime before any weight loss occurs as there are plenty of feeds that can help with weight gain. Remember that good quality forage should form the basis of your feeding regime before turning to cereal-based feeds. Feeding oil will also help maintain condition.

7. Mud fever

Mud fever is often seen in autumn if conditions are wet and muddy. Avoid long periods of exposure to these conditions, as bacteria from the soil can enter the horse’s body through damaged skin or cuts. Barrier creams can also be used to help protect from wet and mud.

8. Vaccinations

Check if your horse’s vaccinations are due. Contact your vet if you are unsure what vaccinations your horse needs.

9. TeethGet your vet or equine dental technician to check your horse’s teeth before winter, to ensure they are able to make the most of their feed. This is particularly important for youngsters and older horses.

10. Grass

Laminitis is commonly associated with spring grass, but cool nights followed by sunny days in autumn can also be a risk. If you own a laminitis-prone horse consider whether you need to restrict their grass intake.

11. Fly gear

Clean your fly sheets and fly masks and store them ready for use in the spring. Bring all your fly sprays, shampoos and other liquids indoors to prevent freezing and thawing, which may make them less effective.

12. ‘Winterise’ your yardAfter the ground has frozen you won’t be able to sink new fence posts, so make sure they are all secure now. Check gutters and downpipes are in good condition and clear of debris. Insulate your pipes and unhook hoses when not in use, especially during the night when it may drop below freezing.

13. Cooling

If your horse typically works up a sweat while being ridden, have a wool or fleece cooler to hand to throw over him while he’s cooling down to prevent him from becoming chilled.

14. Shooting

If you live in an area where deer stalking or shooting may occur, it is best to avoid riding out at peak times. Dress yourself and your horse in hi-vis and talk to your fellow riders to make sure you can be seen and heard.

You might also be interested in:

9 reasons riders love (and hate) autumn

Why autumn hunting is awesome, plus 8 other useful things you need to know

It might be a month until the opening meet, but autumn hunting is well underway so here’s what you need

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

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

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

JHL Essential medium weight turnout

The first thing that came to mind with the JHL Essential medium weight turnout rug was that it was simple and practical, which is what I expected being in the brand’s “Essential” range. It felt well made but at £59.99 (which does not include the detachable neck cover) for a 600D rug, it feels a little pricey in comparison to other budget-friendly rugs that offer a higher denier and include a neck cover in the price, such as the Derby House Evolution Detach-A-Neck medium turnout.

The JHL Essential rug has a 200g polyfill and this kept my clipped mare lovely and warm on a cold evening. You can really feel the weight of the rug, but thankfully it didn’t become too heavy when wet.

The rug comes in navy with burgundy seams, or burgundy with navy seams, and features front buckle fastenings with Velcro, adjustable surcingles and leg straps. It also has reinforced nylon “anti-rub” shoulders, with gussets for comfort and overall is smart looking.

My mare definitely put the rug to the test and she had lots of freedom of movement, however the tail flap I found to be quite on the large side and I did spot it flapping in the wind on a number of occasions.

A detachable neck cover available separately for £25 can be attached by D rings on the rug. While this type of fastening would be my favoured when it comes to neck covers, if you choose not to buy the neck cover then you have a rug with D rings on that are not required.

I would describe the JHL Essential medium turnout rug as functional and user-friendly. The 6ft3in size was quite roomy on my 15.2hh Connemara X ISH mare, but overall it fitted very well and I would stick to this size. My personal preference is usually a higher denier as she has been known to rip rugs in the past, plus living in Scotland means we have plenty of rain, but the rug has stood up to the test.

Verdict

This rug very much does what it says on the tin in terms of its simplicity and I would recommend it. You are getting good quality, a smart design and most importantly it fits well. However, it’s difficult not to compare it to the Rhinegold Konig 200g outdoor rug, which is marginally cheaper and comes with a number of extra features.

View now at viovet.co.uk

Who tested these rugs?

Becky Murray started freelance writing for Horse & Hound in 2016 alongside other equestrian titles, before joining the H&H news team in July 2018. During her time at H&H she has reported on a broad range of topics across the equestrian industry including welfare issues, veterinary studies, FEI Tribunal hearings, rider safety, and road safety campaigns. In 2019 she attended the national Strangles Symposium and the Scottish welfare conference.

Becky was part of the home remote reporting team for the Tokyo Olympic Games and the European Showjumping Championships and has reported from Morris Equestrian, the Royal Highland Show and Blair Castle International Horse Trials. She also regularly contributes to the weekly H&H podcast.

Based in north Scotland, Becky learnt to ride at the age of five. She got the showjumping bug with her 13.2hh older pony Phoenix, who used to particularly enjoy a chase-me-Charlie. She went on to compete in British Showjumping and riding club activities as a teenager with her pony Sparkle. After losing two horses in 2015 to illness and injury, Becky is now producing two Irish mares, Ruby and Chloe, and hopes to get back in the showjumping ring in the future. She also has two miniature Shetland sisters, Mootie and Poppet, who keep her on her toes.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

You might also like:

Best medium weight turnout rugs for chillier days

Derby House Evolution medium Detach-A-Neck turnout *H&H Approved*

£64.99

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

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. 

Rhinegold Konig 200g outdoor rug

I was really interested to try the Rhinegold Konig 200g outdoor rug as while I have tried Rhinegold products in the past, I hadn’t previously used the brand’s rugs. At £52.50 for the medium turnout with standard neck, I would say this medium weight turnout sits in the budget-friendly category.

Rhinegold describes the Konig as one of its “best selling rug lines for 20 years”; it has a 600D ripstop, waterproof, breathable outer, with 200g polyfill. Although I personally prefer a higher denier, it was nice to see this rug didn’t scrimp on added features. It has front clip fastenings, and I especially like they have three optional D-rings, giving a broader size range on the chest.

There is a shoulder gusset for movement, and the surcingles have strengthened guides that also look like they’ll stop them coming undone easily and is usually a feature I only expect see on more expensive brands. I was also really pleased to note that while the rug comes with a large tail flap, this is secure at the sides and doesn’t look like it will flap in the wind.

On taking the rug out of the bag I thought it looked quite small, and the 6ft3in did not fit my broader chested Connemara x Irish Sport Horse mare and she would need to go up a size, if not two. It fits my smaller built Connemara x ISH mare much better and I like that it comes up deep on the chest offering good coverage. However, for chunkier breeds or generally broader horses I would definitely consider going up a size.

The rug has a D-ring for attaching an optional neck cover, available at an additional £20.95. Although I think the added cost of the neck cover does make this rug a bit expensive for a 600D, this rug does have more features than the JHL Essential medium weight turnout which is £59.99 plus £25 neck cover, so for me the Rhinegold Konig is more justifiable on price.

Verdict

H&H Approved – Overall this economical medium turnout rug has really impressed me. During one particularly bad downpour it did get a bit damp inside, but it dried quickly. I would say this rug is perfect for those chilly dry autumn/winter days, where you’re not quite ready to drop to a lightweight. I think the features you get for the price make this rug a real winner, and I was pleased to note it didn’t rub at all. The rug does now have a small tear, which I suspect is down to my mare’s field antics, but at this price and bearing in mind the rug is 600D, I would be happy to spend the money for another one and think it’s a great all-rounder to have in your horse’s wardrobe.

Who tested these rugs?

Becky Murray started freelance writing for Horse & Hound in 2016 alongside other equestrian titles, before joining the H&H news team in July 2018. She was made senior news writer in January 2022. During her time at H&H she has reported on a broad range of topics across the equestrian industry including welfare issues, veterinary studies, FEI Tribunal hearings, rider safety, and road safety campaigns. In 2019 she attended the national Strangles Symposium and the Scottish welfare conference.

Becky was part of the home remote reporting team for the Tokyo Olympic Games and the European Showjumping Championships and has reported from Morris Equestrian, the Royal Highland Show and Blair Castle International Horse Trials. She also regularly contributes to the weekly H&H podcast.

Based in north Scotland, Becky learnt to ride at the age of five. She got the showjumping bug with her 13.2hh older pony Phoenix, who used to particularly enjoy a chase-me-Charlie. She went on to compete in British Showjumping and riding club activities as a teenager with her pony Sparkle. After losing two horses in 2015 to illness and injury, Becky is now producing two Irish mares, Ruby and Chloe, and hopes to get back in the showjumping ring in the future. She also has two miniature Shetland sisters, Mootie and Poppet, who keep her on her toes.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

You might also be interested in:

JHL Essential medium turnout *H&H Approved*

£59.99

Derby House Evolution medium Detach-A-Neck turnout *H&H Approved*

£64.99

Best medium weight turnout rugs for chillier days

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 Plus Dynamic II Detach-A-Neck

I expected good quality from the Weatherbeeta ComFiTec Plus Dynamic II Detach-a-Neck medium turnout rug, and I was delighted that this rug delivered on my expectations. It costs £149.99, which feels fair for what you are getting – plus it comes with a three-year warranty on “hardware, waterproofness and breathability”, which makes me feel assured this product is going to last. 

While I didn’t expect the rug to stay clean for long knowing my mares, I loved the maroon/grey/white colour it came in and thought it was a really attractive rug to look at. It also comes in black and aqua. It’s worth noting the rug comes in a sturdy bag, which is great for storing other rugs in.

The Weatherbeeta ComFiTec Plus Dynamic II boasts lots of features; front clip fastenings, removable leg straps, shoulder gussets and cross surcingles with sturdy buckles. The 220g polyfill feels very generous and the 1200D “triple weave outer shell with repel shell coating” feels strong, and is good quality. The rug also includes a memory foam “wither relief pad” that claims to “contour to the horse’s shape” and lifts the rug off the withers to reduce rubbing and provide added comfort.

An added unique selling point is that this rug has been hydrostatic pressure tested [a method used to test for leaks] to 2000mm, and has been moisture vapour tested [a process to test for breathability of material] to 3000g/m2 plus. So far, the rug has stayed true to its word and withstood some awfully wet days, and my horse has remained dry and warm.

I like that it is compatible with the Weatherbeeta ComFiTec liner system, meaning you can add layers to turn it into a heavier rug, which is a great option for changeable weather. One concern I had, was the “extra large tail flap”, while it claims to provide “maximum protection” but I did find this flapped a lot on windy days, which one of my horses finds unsettling. 

Finally, one of my favourite features were the reflective strips on the front and at the tail flap – these are a real bonus in winter, and trust me – make catching a horse in the dark a lot easier when you can shine a torch and easily spot your horse, so I am delighted this rug comes with these. 

In terms of fit, I would say this rug is true to size. I have two Connemara x Irish Sport Horses, one of which is wider in the chest than the other, but they both wear 6ft3in rugs. I was happy that this medium turnout rug comfortably fitted both of them, although the neck cover was slightly on the large side for the finer of the two and touched her ears.

Verdict

H&H Approved – This rug has definitely delivered on its promises. It hasn’t let any water in, and it almost looks like new (except for the mud!) despite being put through its paces. It is in the upper price range and is perhaps more than I would normally spend on a medium turnout, but it really feels like you are getting your money’s worth with the number of features, and combined with the three-year warranty, I think the price is justified. I would highly recommend to others.

View the detachable neck version now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, gsequestrian.co.uk, equus.co.uk, sportsdirect.com or ebay.co.uk

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

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

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

Who tested this rug?

Becky Murray started freelance writing for Horse & Hound in 2016 alongside other equestrian titles, before joining the H&H news team in July 2018. She was made senior news writer in January 2022. During her time at H&H she has reported on a broad range of topics across the equestrian industry including welfare issues, veterinary studies, FEI Tribunal hearings, rider safety, and road safety campaigns. In 2019 she attended the national Strangles Symposium and the Scottish welfare conference.

Becky was part of the home remote reporting team for the Tokyo Olympic Games and the European Showjumping Championships and has reported from Morris Equestrian, the Royal Highland Show and Blair Castle International Horse Trials. She also regularly contributes to the weekly H&H podcast.

Based in north Scotland, Becky learnt to ride at the age of five. She got the showjumping bug with her 13.2hh older pony Phoenix, who used to particularly enjoy a chase-me-Charlie. She went on to compete in British Showjumping and riding club activities as a teenager with her pony Sparkle. After losing two horses in 2015 to illness and injury, Becky is now producing two Irish mares, Ruby and Chloe, and hopes to get back in the showjumping ring in the future. She also has two miniature Shetland sisters, Mootie and Poppet, who keep her on her toes.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

You might also be interested in:

Best medium weight turnout rugs for chillier days

Derby House Evolution medium Detach-A-Neck turnout *H&H Approved*

£64.99

Weatherbeeta Green-Tec 900D Detach-A-Neck Lite *H&H Approved*

£154.99

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.

WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Plus Dynamic II Lite with standard neck

WeatherBeeta rugs are known industry wide for their quality, and my first impression of the WeatherBeeta ComFiTec Plus Dynamic II Standard Neck Lite in maroon, grey and white certainly confirmed this.

With a RRP of £124.99, this no-fill turnout would be an investment, but would be one your horse could have in his wardrobe for years to come.

The rugs is described as being “super strong” thanks to the 1200D triple weave outer shell with repel shell coating. There were features that promoted comfort of the horse, too. These included the memory foam wither relief pad that contours to the shape of your horse and lifts the rug off the wither to reduce rubbing, the side gussets which promote movement and the elasticated, adjustable leg straps.

Another welcome feature was the 0g of polyfill, which is “easily identified with the new temperature gauge badge.” We tested the medium weight version of this rug, so if you had two similar rugs this would be really handy.

The rug — which is both waterproof and breathable — seems lightweight enough to use on warmer spring or autumn days when rain is forecast later in the day. As the British weather can be unpredictable, you can also purchase a compatible liner separately to use under this rug if you so wish.

I tried a 5ft6in rug on a 14hh Connemara gelding, Yogi, who is a six-year-old but lacks maturity and depth at this stage in his life. However, as Yogi has matured the rug has still remained a good fit for him. I would recommend that if your horse or pony is a finer type, the rug is true to size, but if you own a chunkier, heavier or hairier breed, sizing up might be your best option. Thankfully, WeatherBeeta offers an easy-to-use size guide on their website so you can find the ideal fit.

What struck me initially about this rug, which handily comes with a three-year warranty, was the quality. It was outstanding. The triple-weave outer shell looks like it will stand the test of time, and the finish — including the binding and leather detail — was superb.

The front of the rug fit this particular gelding well; there was plenty of room for movement but it sat on his shoulder in the right place so it would not slip back and rub if he rolled or ran around the field. As said above, while it was roomy at present, in a few months when the pony broadens in front he might benefit from sizing up.

The fit of the neck area was complemented by the 100% boa fleece wither pad. There were also handy attachments so you could add a neck cover if needed, perhaps to be added during competition season to avoid the horse getting overly muddy or dirty. The rug was also well darted at the front so it would not restrict movement.

The rug was easy to use and the quick clip front closures looked durable and sturdy. Clips are always preferable on turnout rugs to save time.

There was a unique extra large tail flap, which I particularly liked as this would offer maximum protection from the elements and would also go some way in ensuring the horse stayed clean. There were also reflective strips on the front and on the tail flap for extra visibility – another handy feature if your horse was still out the evenings.

The fit was also great on the hind quarters; it was not too baggy, negating concerns over it slipping round when the pony roles, but it was also not too tight as to restrict the pony when he moves.

The rug has been the perfect lightweight turnout for Yogi. It has been durable and despite being used several times while he has been turned out over spring, there is not one sign or wear or tear; he is even turned out with another pony who is prone to giving him a nibble.

When he is returned from the field after wearing the rug his coat is bone dry and the rug is yet to slip back and cause him any discomfort.

Verdict

A high quality rug ideal for the finer types of horses and ponies. It is durable, lightweight and waterproof and is well worth the money.

• Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

Who tested these rugs?

Alex Robinson joined H&H in January 2018 as showing editor and features assistant. She graduated from University of Leeds in 2016 and has freelanced for specialist equestrian magazines, including The Native Pony Magazine and has contributed to the National Pony Society annual journal for the past few years.

Born and raised in the Lake District, Alex has grown up on the show scene. She has qualified and competed ponies at the Royal International, Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and Olympia and has extensive knowledge of current issues in the showing world and the horses, ponies and riders who compete. She has a rare insight into the sector that comes with riding amongst the best at top level. She has produced a variety of rides to the highest level and has a passion for bringing on youngsters through the ranks. She has several ponies, mainly natives of all types, on the yard and rides most days each week before work.

At H&H Alex is responsible for the all aspects of showing coverage and is continuing to cement its place as the leading publication for both reports and current showing news. When not writing, she will be found competing her own ponies on the county show circuit.

You might also like:

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

A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

Weatherbeeta ComFiTec Plus Dynamic II Detach-A-Neck *H&H Approved*

£149.99

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. 

Equestrian YouTuber Esme Higgs, who is better known as This Esme, has partnered with Hy Equestrian to develop a limited edition This Esme range, which includes new This Esme rugs.

The range includes a StormX Original 0g rain sheet and StormX Original 200g turnout with detachable neck, as well as co-ordinating boot and hat bags. The new items feature the This Esme logo and are available in mint/grey and purple/grey.

While the hat and boot bags are available now, along with the rain sheet, the 200g turnout is planned to go on sale in September.

Nineteen-year-old Esme, who has four horses and three donkeys, said: “To be able to design my own rugs and see them on my boys is a dream come true and I hope everyone loves them as much as I do!”

This Esme has more than 720,000 subscribers to her YouTube channel, which she started in 2015. She regularly posts videos that show her life with her horses and donkeys.

Hy Equestrian frequently bring out new patterned rugs in new, fun prints with each change in season. Other current designs include “Seaside Donkey”, which features donkeys eating ice creams and surfing, and “Born To Be Wild”, which is decorated with zebras.

New This Esme collection

You might also like:

StormX Original 50 Combi turnout rug

£64.99

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Behind the social media account — Esme Higgs aka This_Esme

Find out more about one of the biggest influencers in the equestrian world — some of her answers might surprise

All in a day’s work: YouTube sensation Esme Higgs

Esme Higgs, 18, on her unhorsey start, the pressures of social media and being star-struck by William Fox-Pitt

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.

They are born with a perfectly adequate coat, so why do horses wear rugs in summer? There’s no nicer sight than a glossy horse grazing in a green meadow in the sunshine, but the reality is rather different. Sun-bleached coats, fly and midge bites, inclement thunderstorms and even sunburn are all summer irritations that send owners reaching for the rug rack.

Why do horses wear rugs in summer? Flies…

Fly rugs have become a staple in many horses’ wardrobes for the summer months. A fly rug is made of a fine mesh fabric that will help protect the horse from tiresome fly and midge bites, without making him too hot on a summer day. Flies and other insects can turn a beautiful summer day into a nightmare for your horse in the field. Some horses are so distressed by the bites that they kick out and run around rather than settling to graze.

Bites can cause allergic reactions, bumps and rashes. In some countries there are also potentially fatal mosquito-borne diseases which can be passed from horse to horse, although thankfully this is not currently the case in the UK. Flies and other biting insects are more prevalent in certain areas and fields, while some horses seem to attract flies more than others, which may affect your rug choice, or whether you use one at all.

If your horse is particularly bothered by flies, you can buy a rug that fully covers the horse’s body, including protecting the neck and belly – where flies often bite. In addition, a fly mask is a popular option for those horses who are especially irritated by flies on their face, as is fly spray and fly gel repellents.

Sweet-itch rugs are a type of fly rug designed for maximum protection for horses that are prone to this condition, including full body coverage and an extra-fine mesh to help prevent midges from biting. They are a preventative measure and do not treat the horse or cure the condition.

There is a wide variety of options of all types of fly rug on the market nowadays – including waterproof fly rugs to cope with sudden summer rain. Sun protection rugs effectively do the same job as a fly rug, with the added bonus of blocking out harmful UV rays, which can bleach the coat. Pink-skinned horses are more prone to sunburn than dark-skinned ones, so they are an obvious candidate for UV protection. These horses will also benefit from a high-SPF suncream on exposed pink skin, such as muzzles.

Rain on a summer’s day

British summers don’t always play ball and downpours are common whatever the season. Some owners use lightweight turnouts or rain sheets on cooler, damp days during the summer months simply so they can ensure a dry horse to ride after work. Older horses and poor-doers may find the waterproof protection helps them maintain weight. Or owners may want to keep the mud off a grey or coloured horse ahead of a show.

Lightweight turnouts typically have 50-150g of insulation, but you can also buy no-fill (0g) rain sheets, which are more suitable when it’s warm.

Another useful rug in the wardrobe for any season, including summer, is a cooler. Their main purpose is to help the horse to cool gradually after exercise, and can be useful after exercise on a colder summer day or early mornings and late evenings if the horse has sweated up through exertion or travelling.

Cooler rugs should be breathable and with wicking properties to help the sweat disperse. They come in a variety of thicknesses, with the thinner ones being more suitable for the warmer months.

Finally, a summer sheet is handy for the stable, to keep the dust and stable stains off before a show. They also to prevent a fine-skinned horse from getting chilled on colder nights in late spring or early autumn, without leaving him liable to overheat.

It is easy to make a judgement from afar when you look into a summery paddock and wonder why horses are wearing rugs on a summer’s day. However there is no hard and fast rule on whether horses should wear rugs or not, it depends on each individual’s needs.

You may also be interested to read…

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

A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

A challenge to fair-weather riders: relish the rain (and stay dry)

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

DefenceX System 200 turnout with detachable neck

I was really excited to try the DefenceX System 200g turnout as visually I thought it was really eye-catching and it wasn’t a brand I was familiar with. This 1200D medium turnout rug costs £104.99, and this includes the detachable neck cover.

Compared with other medium turnouts on the market, this rug is in the mid-range price category and with that comes some great features such as the reflective strips, adjustable leg straps, and deep shoulder gusset. Overall the general look of the rug, which is red and navy, is very pleasing. The rug is provides that little bit extra than some of the budget rugs such as the JHL Essential medium turnout, but isn’t as expensive as the Weatherbeeta ComFiTec Plus Dynamic II.

The DefenceX System 200 features my preferred front clip fastenings with two D-ring options to clip onto, but I was really disappointed to find that the actual straps are not adjustable which meant they were quite loose, especially on my mare with the narrower chest. Because of this, I’d be quite worried about them catching on something. When I introduced a round bale ring feeder to my field for a few weeks over winter I felt I couldn’t use this rug with the worry it might catch, which was a real shame. That being the case I would only use it when I’m confident there isn’t anything the straps could catch on.

Otherwise the 6ft3in fit both of my Connemara x Irish Sport Horse mares well, though could have been slightly longer in depth for my 16hh mare (pictured).

One real bonus is the detachable neck cover. As it is removable, this rug great for milder days, and I really like how well the neck cover fits. I often find neck covers, such as the one on the Derby House Evolution Detach A Neck, tend to leave quite a large gap but this Defence X System rug provides great coverage but still plenty of movement for grazing in.

I love rugs that come with reusable bags as I can never have enough storage, but one small negative is the fabric reusable bag has already torn so it would have been nice if this was a bit more sturdy.

Verdict

This rug definitely ticks a lot of boxes in terms of features. After some use there is some slightly fraying on some of the seems but I always expect some wear, particularly with one of my boisterous mares. The rug has remained waterproof and the neck cover really is super on a wintry or wet day and owing to its good fit, it doesn’t let any rain in. I like this rug a lot, but the unadjustable fastenings on the front are a big downside for me.

View now at viovet.co.uk, rideawaystore.com or equus.co.uk

Who tested this rug?

Becky Murray started freelance writing for Horse & Hound in 2016 alongside other equestrian titles, before joining the H&H news team in July 2018. She was made senior news writer in January 2022. During her time at H&H she has reported on a broad range of topics across the equestrian industry including welfare issues, veterinary studies, FEI Tribunal hearings, rider safety, and road safety campaigns. In 2019 she attended the national Strangles Symposium and the Scottish welfare conference.

Becky was part of the home remote reporting team for the Tokyo Olympic Games and the European Showjumping Championships and has reported from Morris Equestrian, the Royal Highland Show and Blair Castle International Horse Trials. She also regularly contributes to the weekly H&H podcast.

Based in north Scotland, Becky learnt to ride at the age of five. She got the showjumping bug with her 13.2hh older pony Phoenix, who used to particularly enjoy a chase-me-Charlie. She went on to compete in British Showjumping and riding club activities as a teenager with her pony Sparkle. After losing two horses in 2015 to illness and injury, Becky is now producing two Irish mares, Ruby and Chloe, and hopes to get back in the showjumping ring in the future. She also has two miniature Shetland sisters, Mootie and Poppet, who keep her on her toes.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

You might also be interested in:

Best medium weight turnout rugs for chillier days

Derby House Evolution medium Detach-A-Neck turnout *H&H Approved*

£64.99

Weatherbeeta ComFiTec Plus Dynamic II Detach-A-Neck *H&H Approved*

£149.99

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.

Derby House Pro Medium Lite PFC Free standard turnout

I was instantly impressed with the exterior and design of the Derby House Pro Medium Lite PFC Free Standard turnout. The deep turquoise colour was complemented by striking purple binding and it was arguably one of the most attractive lightweight turnout rugs I’d ever seen.

The website lists a number of technical features which makes this rug an effective turnout, so I was excited to put it to the test.

The rug is “constructed from a durable 1200D diamond weave fabric” and has a “bionic finish”. On first inspection it certainly felt high quality and capable of withstanding heavy rainfall. This rug is part of the Pro collection, which is Derby House’s middle of the range collection – the Classics are designed to be no frills for a modest budget, while the Elite collection is the top of the range.

After some use on a pony turned out in muddy Cumbrian fields the rug did hold its own but it wasn’t as waterproof as expected and it did get very muddy and damp, so it needed to be hung up to dry for a few days. I would predict this rug would probably last a single season, but it’s not overly expensive so this would be fine with me.

The rug was also PFC free. PFCs are manmade chemicals that are widely used to waterproof horse rugs and are harmful to the environment. Instead, this rug is coated with an eco-friendly alternative and offers even better waterproofing performance than standard horse rugs.

Claimed benefits to the PFC free waterproof coating include greater mud resistance, breathability, weather resistance and resistance to washing so reproofing is not necessary.

I tried this rug in a 5ft9in size on a 13.2hh Fell pony mare. At the time of the first try on, this pony — who has been recently clipped for a show — was the only animal in the stables, but I would usually avoid putting a rug with no neck on a freshly clipped horse who is attending a competition. The fit was very good on the pony and it hasn’t rubbed her at all during the test.

The 100g of fill did feel cosy and would provide some warmth when temperatures do drop unexpectedly. Derby House say it is the ideal rug for “in-between seasons or for warmer autumn and winter days” – and I agree with this.

The adjustable, double buckle and clip chest fastening looked strong and durable as well as being easy to use. There was also a secure, quality Velcro section on the front to hold the rug still and prevent the rug moving and rubbing. Many turnout rugs do not have Velcro or have low quality Velcro that loses its stick over time. The rug was easy to use; the buckles and surcingles were very practical and functional rug.

The front of the rug and shoulder area was quite restrictive and tight on this particular pony, even with the shoulder dart, and I would think it would fit a finer, lighter horse much better. I would not recommend this rug for a native pony or stallion.

It wasn’t as deep as other turnout rugs but this is also an indication that the rug was not the best fit for this chunky Fell mare. The fit was not right on this pony throughout, with the back section feeling quite loose and the tail end looking tight of this pony’s quarters.

There also is no neck attachment option, which would have been handy if you wanted this rug for a clipped horse.

The fleece wither pad was a nice feature to help prevent rubbing and the darts in the back of the rug were also helpful to prevent the rug from slipping and to provide a secure fit.

This rug is priced at £49.99, which is a good price for a turnout made of such a high quality material.

Verdict

A practical turnout at a very reasonable price but is likely to only last for a single season.

View now at rideawaystore.com

Who tested this rug?

Alex Robinson joined H&H in January 2018 as showing editor and features assistant. She has freelanced for specialist equestrian magazines, including The Native Pony Magazine and has contributed to the National Pony Society annual journal for the past few years.

Born and raised in the Lake District, Alex has grown up on the show scene. She has qualified and competed ponies at the Royal International, Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and Olympia and has extensive knowledge of current issues in the showing world and the horses, ponies and riders who compete. She has a rare insight into the sector that comes with riding amongst the best at top level. She has produced a variety of rides to the highest level and has a passion for bringing on youngsters through the ranks. She has several ponies, mainly natives of all types, on the yard and rides most days each week before work.

At H&H Alex is responsible for the all aspects of showing coverage and is continuing to cement its place as the leading publication for both reports and current showing news. When not writing, she will be found competing her own ponies on the county show circuit.

• Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

You might also be interested in:

A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

Weatherbeeta Green-Tec 900D Detach-A-Neck Lite *H&H Approved*

£154.99

Derby House Evolution medium Detach-A-Neck turnout *H&H Approved*

£64.99

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. 

Weatherbeeta Green-Tec 900D Detach-A-Neck Lite

If you can keep your horse clean, dry and protected from the elements in a lightweight turnout, while also doing your bit for the planet then you’re already onto a winner in my eyes. The Weatherbeeta Green-Tec 900D Detach-A-Neck Lite “saves over 340 plastic bottles from going into the ocean or landfill” as well as being made in a way which “uses far less — over 50% — less energy”. The recycled plastic bottles have been made into the outer and lining of the rug, and on first inspection it still feels like a robust, waterproof rug suitable for harsh weather conditions and heavy rainfall. In addition, the rug is was packaged in recyclable packaging that is also made from PCR (post consumer recyclable plastic).

At £154.99, the Weatherbeeta Green-Tec was on the more expensive end of the market, but it is a high quality, durable rug that will stand the test of time. I would never usually pay this much for a rug but it is well worth the money. Plus, it comes with a three year warranty. The black/bottle green colour combination was also lovely; dirt wouldn’t show up as clearly and the green detail gave it an appealing look which would distinguish it from other rugs on the yard.

I used a 6ft rug on a 14.2hh Dales pony mare. She is a stockier stamp of native with hair but is fit and in working condition. One of the main issues with rugging a native is finding a neck that is not too tight and does not restrict the movement or rub/mat the mane. This rug fit her neck perfectly, with plenty of room, which negated any concerns over hair rubbing. I would recommend this rug to owners of natives and stallions as it is very true to size; there isn’t a need to size up as you might do normally to accommodate the extra neck size and crest.

The fit of this rug was exception on this pony and it has kept her dry, warm and comfortable throughout its use. It is also mud repellent and water resistant so it can be used day after day without needing to wait for it to fully dry.

It was very user friendly; the front fastenings on the neck were easy to secure and the quick clip front closures are a welcome addition. I wasn’t sure if the choice of metal looked a little cheap but the buckles have withstood the harsh weather and muddy fields we have in Cumbria. It was arguably on the heavier side (to hold, rather than in terms of fill) for a turnout, so it will be useful to have the removable neck in warmer weather.

The rug was also deep on the horse which is handy to keep them dry and clean when clipped. The pleated front looked ideal for promoting movement of the horse when it gallops in the field and this would also take pressure off the front of the rug.

The only part that initially worried me was the lack of padding in between the rug and the detachable neck, but the small piece of fur lining negated any concerns and it has not rubbed the pony at all.

Verdict

Horse & Hound Approved – While this is definitely an expensive rug, the durability, quality and three year warranty ensures it will be in your horse’s wardrobe for years so it’s great value for money. One of the best turnouts I have ever owned.

View now at amazon.co.uk, rideawaystore.com, viovet.co.uk, sportsdirect.com, naylors.com or equus.co.uk

Who tested this rug?

Alex Robinson joined H&H in January 2018 as showing editor and features assistant. She has freelanced for specialist equestrian magazines, including The Native Pony Magazine and has contributed to the National Pony Society annual journal for the past few years.

Born and raised in the Lake District, Alex has grown up on the show scene. She has qualified and competed ponies at the Royal International, Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and Olympia and has extensive knowledge of current issues in the showing world and the horses, ponies and riders who compete. She has a rare insight into the sector that comes with riding amongst the best at top level. She has produced a variety of rides to the highest level and has a passion for bringing on youngsters through the ranks. She has several ponies, mainly natives of all types, on the yard and rides most days each week before work.

At H&H Alex is responsible for the all aspects of showing coverage and is continuing to cement its place as the leading publication for both reports and current showing news. When not writing, she will be found competing her own ponies on the county show circuit.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

You might also like:

A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

Derby House Pro Medium Lite PFC Free Standard turnout

£49.99

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. 

Bucas Freedom turnout

The Bucas Freedom turnout in navy blue had a high quality Rip-stop 600D outer shell which looked to be waterproof while still being highly breathable and lightweight turnout for when the weather warms up during the autumn months.

It is priced at £104 and this didn’t seem a bad price considering how high quality the material was, though it is on the higher end of the price scale. This rug had 150g of fill but there are eight other options to choose from. Three styles are now available in the Freedom turnout: Classic Cut, High Neck and Full Neck, with the Full Neck Medium and the Full Neck Extra coming with 150g of insulation on the neck piece.

I’m a big fan of simple, functional rugs and the basic design of this turnout was classic and traditional, without any fussy mod-cons that can make the rug difficult to put on or take off, especially when working with cold hands on a chilly winter morning.

This rug came in a 6ft size and I actually tried this on a four-year-old mare who stands at just a shade under 14hh. She is a native mare but is quite immature. She usually wears a 5ft 9 rug but this rug fitted her perfectly, suggesting the sizing runs a little small.

Bucas confirmed this on their website: “We consider the fit of the Bucas Freedom turnout to be a ‘slim fit’ as it is the only rug from the Bucas range that does not have shoulder darts. For this reason, narrow horses or thoroughbred type horses would take their normal size but horses that are ‘cob-ish’ or have a wide distance from the whither to the front of the chest might find this fit a little snug.”

The neck fitting was particularly good and overall the rug fitted this Fell pony mare like a glove, negating any concerns over rubbing. I would happily leave my pony out in this rug all day without any worries about it slipping back and causing discomfort.

I wouldn’t recommend this rug to an owner of a chunky 6ft horse, but would suggest it would fit a finer 6ft, and would possibly fit a 5ft 9in pony, but again not one that was overly heavy in stamp.

The front fastening was super-easy to use; it was a single strap fastened with velcro and a buckle. This was very handy and functional, however I was a little concerned that over time the velcro section could get clogged up with mud and dirt, which might make it harder to fasten. After plenty of use, I can confirm that the fastening was durable and does with stand the test of time, especially if you don’t have particularly muddy fields.

There aren’t any leg straps on this rug, but the fillet string ensured the rug stayed in place during use.

The rug is very well darted at the back and it fit this pony’s rump perfectly. The tail flap was an excellent length and the depth of the rug was also really adequate.

Finally, it had a lovely finish and the overall look was high quality and professional.

Verdict

A classic, quality and functional turnout rug at a good price considering it would be expected to last a long time. However, sizing could be an issue as it runs small. Ideal for finer/younger horses and ponies.

View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk or rideawaystore.com

Who tested these rugs?

Alex Robinson joined H&H in January 2018 as showing editor and features assistant. She graduated from University of Leeds in 2016 and has freelanced for specialist equestrian magazines, including The Native Pony Magazine and has contributed to the National Pony Society annual journal for the past few years.

Born and raised in the Lake District, Alex has grown up on the show scene. She has qualified and competed ponies at the Royal International, Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and Olympia and has extensive knowledge of current issues in the showing world and the horses, ponies and riders who compete. She has a rare insight into the sector that comes with riding amongst the best at top level. She has produced a variety of rides to the highest level and has a passion for bringing on youngsters through the ranks. She has several ponies, mainly natives of all types, on the yard and rides most days each week before work.

At H&H Alex is responsible for the all aspects of showing coverage and is continuing to cement its place as the leading publication for both reports and current showing news. When not writing, she will be found competing her own ponies on the county show circuit.

You might also like:

A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

Weatherbeeta Green-Tec 900D Detach-A-Neck Lite *H&H Approved*

£154.99

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. 

JHL Essential Lightweight Plus turnout

The JHL Essential Lightweight Plus in burgundy and navy was a great lightweight turnout option for the warmer, wetter times of year.

As well as being breathable and light on the horse, it was easy to hang up and would be quick to dry when it got wet during a downpour. The 80g of poly fill would also offer some warmth for those chilly spring mornings. It seemed ideal for natives, though if you had a finer horse or a horse prone to feeling the cold I would go for something thicker.

It was priced at £59.99, which is a good price for a turnout. If you wanted a neck cover this would be an additional cost.

It boasts “a 600D waterproof and breathable polyester ripstop outer” so this rug is a good choice for spring or summer when the weather is warmer but you want to keep your horse protected against the elements during competition season.

We tried a 6ft rug on a chunky 14hh Fell pony mare who usually wears a true 6ft. This rug was a suitable size for this pony though it didn’t fit very well behind and was slightly baggy on her quarters. However, it was a deep rug which would offer a lot of protection and wouldn’t be too tight on her stomach area or over her back. It was slightly too tight on her neck, but it did not rub or cause any problems when she was out in the field.

The finish was excellent and the bindings were high quality.

The adjustable and removable leg straps kept the rug in place if the horse rolled or galloped around when in the field.

The front adjustable double front buckles are sturdy and durable, though clips are always favoured over buckles which take more time to do up.

One of the main features of this rug was the option to attach a neck cover if needed, which is a very welcome addition if you want to keep your horse’s neck protected for the duration of the time, but also want the option to take it off if temperatures rise unexpectedly.

The fleece protection at the wither was a welcome feature and negated concerns over rubbing, as did the reinforced nylon anti-rub shoulders with shoulder gussets.

I think this rug would be the ideal rain sheet for wet autumn or spring days, even for an unclipped horse, due to how lightweight it was.

Verdict

A great option for warmer weather or horses with more coat.

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

Who tested these rugs?

Alex Robinson joined H&H in January 2018 as showing editor and features assistant. She graduated from University of Leeds in 2016 and has freelanced for specialist equestrian magazines, including The Native Pony Magazine and has contributed to the National Pony Society annual journal for the past few years.

Born and raised in the Lake District, Alex has grown up on the show scene. She has qualified and competed ponies at the Royal International, Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and Olympia and has extensive knowledge of current issues in the showing world and the horses, ponies and riders who compete. She has a rare insight into the sector that comes with riding amongst the best at top level. She has produced a variety of rides to the highest level and has a passion for bringing on youngsters through the ranks. She has several ponies, mainly natives of all types, on the yard and rides most days each week before work.

At H&H Alex is responsible for the all aspects of showing coverage and is continuing to cement its place as the leading publication for both reports and current showing news. When not writing, she will be found competing her own ponies on the county show circuit.

You might also like:

A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

Weatherbeeta Green-Tec 900D Detach-A-Neck Lite *H&H Approved*

£154.99

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. 

StormX Original 50 Combi turnout rug

As a showing enthusiast, I was delighted to open the StormX Original 50 Combi turnout rug from Hy Equestrian to find it was a stunning purple colour with yellow and black detail, similar to the iconic Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) colours. It was certainly an eye-catching rug that I wouldn’t get bored of seeing my horse in.

I tested a 6ft rug on a 14.2hh Dales pony mare. She is a stockier stamp of native with hair but is fit and in working condition. It was a true 6ft in size and fitted her perfectly.

The StormX Original 50 Combi is priced at £64.99, which is a good price if the rug lasts the full season and beyond, though there are cheaper 50g fill rugs on the market.

This was an out and out lightweight rug with little fill, suitable for wetter, warmer conditions, or it would even be handy to pack in the lorry in preparation for showers or damp temporary stables when out and about at competitions.

Hy confirms that the rug is “ideal for use on milder days” and that the “50g filling provides some extra warmth and the 600D waterproof rip-stop material will protect them from the weather”.

I, therefore, wouldn’t recommend it for an extremely cold winter’s day, for a horse who needs more protection from the cold or if you had a finer, clipped horse. However, it is ideal for those days when the sunshine comes out unexpectedly, or if you need to rug a native with a thicker coat. It would be great for when the weather is changing, too, and you’re worried about the temperature rising later in the day.

The rug was deep on the mare and provided her with plenty of room to move around in the field and there was no concern about rubbing. The back end of the rug over the tail and quarters was slightly too big on this horse and this could possibly cause some concern that the rug could slip around if the surcingles were not done up tight enough. A dart in the back of the rug might help to make it more secure around the rear end. During use this rug has stayed put on the mare, so I would definitely recommend for owners of natives or chunkier breeds.

Possibly, choosing two sizes and then finding the ideal fit would be a good solution. Hy Equestrian also provides a handy size guide on their website so you can measure your horse’s back and body lengths to find the perfect size; spending a few extra minutes doing this could be beneficial.

In terms of ease of use, the front buckles have been hard to do up — the pin takes some manoeuvring to get into the desired hole, which impacts the practicality of the rug and means it takes quite a while to put on.

The neck was a great fit on this pony, with plenty of room for movement and it looked as though it wouldn’t rub the hair underneath. I would recommend this rug to owners of natives and stallions as it is very true to size and there was plenty of space; there isn’t a need to size up as you might do normally to accommodate the extra neck size and crest. It also sat nicely below her ears and wouldn’t irritate the horse while she was grazing.

Verdict

A good, well-priced choice of rug for natives or horses with more coat, and for the warmer, rainy days which can sometimes take us by surprise. However, the poor quality front fastenings make it hard to put on.

View now at amazon.co.uk, viovet.co.uk, rideawaystore.com or equus.co.uk

Who tested these rugs?

Alex Robinson joined H&H in January 2018 as showing editor and features assistant. She graduated from University of Leeds in 2016 and has freelanced for specialist equestrian magazines, including The Native Pony Magazine and has contributed to the National Pony Society annual journal for the past few years.

Born and raised in the Lake District, Alex has grown up on the show scene. She has qualified and competed ponies at the Royal International, Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and Olympia and has extensive knowledge of current issues in the showing world and the horses, ponies and riders who compete. She has a rare insight into the sector that comes with riding amongst the best at top level. She has produced a variety of rides to the highest level and has a passion for bringing on youngsters through the ranks. She has several ponies, mainly natives of all types, on the yard and rides most days each week before work.

At H&H Alex is responsible for the all aspects of showing coverage and is continuing to cement its place as the leading publication for both reports and current showing news. When not writing, she will be found competing her own ponies on the county show circuit.

• Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

You might also like:

A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

Weatherbeeta Green-Tec 900D Detach-A-Neck Lite *H&H Approved*

£154.99

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. 

Mark Todd Autumner rug

On first inspection, the Mark Todd Autumner rug was a lovely, classic navy blue lightweight turnout suitable for autumn weather and those warmer winter days. This lightweight turnout is available in 5ft6in–7ft.

The £89.98 price tag was definitely on the higher end of the cost scale for a lightweight turnout with no neck, but the material is highly durable and waterproof while being breathable which is still in near perfect condition after months of use.

The rug has 150g of fill so would be a choice for those crisp, cold mornings when the weather is cold but could improve later in the day. It would even be handy to pack in the lorry in preparation for showers or damp temporary stables when out and about at competitions.

If you prefer to have the flexibility of a rug which has a detachable neck, there is an option to buy the Mark Todd neck cover (RRP £42.98).

The adjustable double front buckles with quick-release clips were very easy to do up and, like the outer shell, do stand the test of time. From a user point of view, quick-release clips are always preferred over buckles. There was a Velcro section underneath the clips to pull the front of the rug together but it could have been stronger as there was a slight gap that might rub the horse. However, on this particular horse there were no issues.

I tried a 5ft9in rug on a 13.2hh Fell pony mare. It was a good fit and the padded fleece poll section offered elite protection. This rug would have probably fitted a finer, lighter breed better; this pony has a very full shoulder and broad chest, but it did not rub.

Other features that were welcomed were the reinforced nylon anti-rub shoulders with shoulder gussets and gusseted tail flap. Both offered increased protection and comfort.

The rug was also nice and deep and was fastened by quality surcingles which were also durable and robust.

The rug was very functional when the horse was turned out. It kept the mud and dirt off her coat, handy when you are hoping to ride later in the day, and it was also breathable. This horse was only clipped once during the season, so she needed a rug that would not make her over-heat and consequently sweat when her coat grew back later in the year. It was lightweight, too, so it dried quickly when it got rained on, meaning it was ready to go again the next morning.

The classic design also made it very user friendly and easy to throw on and off.

Verdict

H&H Approved – A classic turnout rug with the handy option of being able to add a neck cover. On the higher end of the price scale, but after rigorous testing this rug was confirmed to be functional and of high quality. Plus, it will stand the test of time.

View now at viovet.co.uk or amazon.co.uk

Who tested these rugs?

Alex Robinson joined H&H in January 2018 as showing editor and features assistant. She has freelanced for specialist equestrian magazines, including The Native Pony Magazine and has contributed to the National Pony Society annual journal for the past few years.

Born and raised in the Lake District, Alex has grown up on the show scene. She has qualified and competed ponies at the Royal International, Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and Olympia and has extensive knowledge of current issues in the showing world and the horses, ponies and riders who compete. She has a rare insight into the sector that comes with riding amongst the best at top level. She has produced a variety of rides to the highest level and has a passion for bringing on youngsters through the ranks. She has several ponies, mainly natives of all types, on the yard and rides most days each week before work.

At H&H Alex is responsible for the all aspects of showing coverage and is continuing to cement its place as the leading publication for both reports and current showing news. When not writing, she will be found competing her own ponies on the county show circuit.

You might also be interested in:

A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

Weatherbeeta Green-Tec 900D Detach-A-Neck Lite *H&H Approved*

£154.99

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. 

Derby House Evolution Detach-A-Neck medium turnout

Finding an affordable high quality medium weight turnout rug that can withstand a wet Scottish winter, while still providing some of my favourite features can be a difficult task, but the Derby House Evolution Detach-A-Neck medium turnout definitely caught my attention. I sometimes find with budget-friendly rugs you have to compromise on fastenings or denier but I was delighted to find this 1200D rug, costing £64.99, stood up with its more expensive competitors.

First and foremost one of the leading selling points for the Evolution is that it is made from recycled fabric – more than 110 plastic bottles to be precise – and is PFC-free. PFCs are chemicals often used to make rugs waterproof, so finding a rug that is waterproof and environmentally friendly is a real bonus. The Evolution’s eco-waterproof coating claims to provide the benefits of being “mud resistant”, “breathable”, “fast-drying” – and “resistant to washing”, meaning reproofing is not necessary, saving you money. The rug came in an eco-friendly reusable bag, and arrived in paper packaging, ticking even more sustainable boxes.

The rug is a lovely Tide Blue Sea Green colour, which I thought was fun and nice to look at. It features double buckle and clip chest fastenings, shoulder gussets for freedom of movement, a generous tail flap, and adjustable leg straps. What I really like is that the leg straps can be removed for washing, which I haven’t found in many rugs in the past – plus I have one mare who can be a bit fussy with leg straps, so the option to remove them and use a fillet string is great for her.

I especially like the clip chest fastenings, which I favour over buckles and find save me that valuable few minutes (especially when contending with cold hands!). The rug feels lovely and cosy with 200g of polyfill, but not too heavy to lift, plus the detachable neck offers great versatility, especially with such changeable temperatures.

I own two Connemara x Irish Sport Horse mares; one is 16hh and by an ISH stallion and the other is 15.2hh and by a Connemara stallion – they have different builds but both take size 6ft3 in rugs. The 6ft3in Evolution was too small for my 16hh mare who is wider in the chest than my 15.2hh, and would have benefited from going up a size. It fitted my 15.2hh much better and I would say this rug is more suited to narrower chests. In previous years I have also used a Derby House turnout rug on a young gangly 17hh warmblood and found the brand suited her shape well.

The removable neck cover is generous in size, but does leave a bit of a gap at the chest on my mare and when grazing it sticks up a little at the top of the neck. This hasn’t proved to be too much of a problem, but I personally would prefer a slightly better fit. 

Verdict

Horse & Hound Approved – The Evolution has stood up to multiple storms during a long Scottish winter. I’m not sure I’m convinced by the “mud-resistant” claim, but I agree that it is fast drying and it is very much still fully waterproof so I’m confident I will get another winter out of it, at least. The rug hasn’t rubbed at all and the removable neck cover has been really helpful on the milder days. Overall I think this rug is great value for money; it’s an affordable price tag but doesn’t compromise on features or durability.

View now at rideawaystore.com or amazon.co.uk

Who tested these rugs?

Becky Murray started freelance writing for Horse & Hound in 2016 alongside other equestrian titles, before joining the H&H news team in July 2018. She was made senior news writer in January 2022. During her time at H&H she has reported on a broad range of topics across the equestrian industry including welfare issues, veterinary studies, FEI Tribunal hearings, rider safety, and road safety campaigns. In 2019 she attended the national Strangles Symposium and the Scottish welfare conference.

Becky was part of the home remote reporting team for the Tokyo Olympic Games and the European Showjumping Championships and has reported from Morris Equestrian, the Royal Highland Show and Blair Castle International Horse Trials. She also regularly contributes to the weekly H&H podcast.

Based in north Scotland, Becky learnt to ride at the age of five. She got the showjumping bug with her 13.2hh older pony Phoenix, who used to particularly enjoy a chase-me-Charlie. She went on to compete in British Showjumping and riding club activities as a teenager with her pony Sparkle. After losing two horses in 2015 to illness and injury, Becky is now producing two Irish mares, Ruby and Chloe, and hopes to get back in the showjumping ring in the future. She also has two miniature Shetland sisters, Mootie and Poppet, who keep her on her toes.

Find out more about how Horse & Hound tests products

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Best medium weight turnout rugs for chillier days

Derby House Pro Medium Lite PFC Free Standard turnout

£49.99

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

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. 

A new poppy-printed horse rug released in time for Remembrance Sunday will raise funds for the Royal British Legion in its centenary year.

The 250g medium weight turnout rug, with detachable neck, has been released by the Mark Todd Collection. All sale proceeds will go to the Royal British Legion’s Poppy Appeal. The collection has pledged to donate at least £20,000 in total.

Mark Todd Collection group chief executive David Mitson said: “As a former army officer, I am delighted to be able to support the Royal British Legion and I have seen first-hand the help that the charity provides to serving and ex-serving personnel all year round, every day of the week.

“Supporting our armed forces is something the equestrian community has a long history of, and I hope we will see many horses in their poppy rugs to celebrate the work of the charity in their centenary year.”

The rug is available at £79.99, from the Mark Todd Collection website and a number of stockists. Money raised will go to the Poppy Appeal, which was launched after the First World War to support armed forces veterans.

Royal British Legion head of corporate partnerships Ben France said: “We are looking forward to working in partnership with the Mark Todd Collection and we are very grateful for their generous pledge of donations on their limited-edition product. It is a wonderful way to not only mark our centenary but the beginning of the Poppy Appeal too.

“The donations raised will make a real and lasting difference to the lives of people from our armed forces community that have selflessly served our country and are now struggling through hardships, injuries and bereavements.”

You might also be interested in:

We will not forget: remembering the horses who gave their lives in war

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Best medium weight turnout rugs for chillier days

Remembering the horses in war time: why help is needed now

SPANA’s campaign remembers the millions of animals killed in conflicts and highlights the work ongoing today to help animals caught

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

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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

Welcome to our group test of rain sheets and lightweight turnouts. All of the rugs in this group test have been put through their paces by international para dressage rider Tamsin Addison and her team. Find out what she thought below

Official description: Derby House Elite detach-a-neck turnout

The Derby House Elite detach-a-neck turnout is designed to last. Engineered with a host of technical features, the strong 1680D outer is crafted to overcome even the harshest of elements. Not only is this rug made from the highest quality of materials, it’s designed with versatility in mind. The need for multiple rugs throughout the seasons is no more. This 0g waterproof and breathable shell is liner compatible allowing you to add and remove warmth whenever it’s required. Teamed with its shaped, detachable neck design with fleece poll pad and storm flap, this rug is one of the most versatile on the market, saving space and money. It also features reflective detail on chest, rear and tail.

Sizes: 5–7ft

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

In the US? View now at rideawaystore.com

First impressions

This rug was a great fit all round. The shoulders were particularly accommodating for well-built warmblood types. 

Overview of performance

This rug performed well – we didn’t really have any issues with it. We were impressed with the neck lining as it didn’t cause any rubbing, while many other rugs did rub in this area. We used it for ages and it comes out of the washing machine like new and is still really waterproof. The fastenings were robust as well as quick and easy to do.

Tamsin’s likes and dislikes

We liked the flexibility of this rug as you could take the neck off, and if you had compatible liners you could attach them too. One of our clients liked it so much she ended up buying the same for her horse.

Verdict

*H&H APPROVED* I’d definitely recommend this lightweight.

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

In the US? View now at rideawaystore.com

You might also like:

A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

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

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.

Welcome to our group test of lightweight turnouts. All of the rugs in this group test have been put through their paces by international para dressage rider Tamsin Addison and her team. Find out what she thought below

Official description: QHP fleece-lined turnout rug 

The QHP fleece-lined turnout rug is a strong, waterproof and breathable rug available in various remarkable prints. The rug has an excellent fit and is fitted with D-rings for a neck part, quick-closures on the front, cross-surcingles, elastic leg straps and a large tail flap. Other products are available in matching prints.

Sizes: 4ft1in – 7ft1in

Colours: Deep sea, nautical, network, Pacific flowers or snake

View at amazon.co.uk

First impressions

Unfortunately this rug arrived too late to be photographed and as it was just prior to the first lockdown, we weren’t able to rearrange this. At first I thought it was was expensive and at first glance it didn’t seem that different to some of the others we had on test that were less expensive.

Overview of performance

I was really impressed with the way the rug fitted – especially over the shoulders and the withers. We loved the fleece lining on the inside, so if you’re looking for a lightweight with a bit of extra warmth this is a great option. The fastenings were fantastic – everything fitted exactly as it should, they were easy to use and they kept working day after day, which was great.

Tamsin’s likes and dislikes

We really liked the elasticated quarter straps – previously we’ve had adjustable ones with buckles that can rub, but these were soft and well designed so you can easily get the right fit and maintain a good level of comfort.

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A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

Verdict

I would definitely recommend this lightweight turnout – it’s so well designed.

Welcome to our group test of rain sheets and lightweight turnouts. All of the rugs in this group test have been put through their paces by international para dressage rider Tamsin Addison and her team. Find out what she thought below

Official description: Swish Equestrian lightweight turnout with detachable neck

The Swish Equestrian lightweight turnout can be used with or without the detachable neck cover. It has a 1200D ripstop outer and 50g of filling. This rug has reflective strips on the front, rear and tail flap. It has large shoulder gussets, cross surcingles, a tail flap and removable/elasticated leg straps. Fully waterproof and breathable. It is designed to sit higher on the neck/shoulders to prevent the rug from slipping back and rubbing, we have had fantastic feedback about this design. This rug also comes with a handy storage bag.

Colours: Purple, royal blue or pink

Sizes: 4ft9in – 7ft6in 

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

First impressions

I really liked the colour of this rug and it looked well put together. 

Overview of performance

Overall the rug felt of good quality – the seams were well stitched and it felt robust. The fastenings were also of good quality and very secure. We didn’t see any evidence of the rug slipping back on the horse who wore it. 

Tamsin’s likes and dislikes

We particularly liked the reflective strips as we used this rug most during changing seasons – we found that they were helpful for locating horses in the field as the nights close in and dusk gets earlier. 

Verdict

A robust and useful rug, especially for the changing seasons.

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

You might also like:

A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

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

Swish Fly Turnout Combination rug *H&H Approved*

£89.99

Swish Nylon Fly Cool Rug *H&H Approved*

£79.99

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.

Welcome to our group test of lightweight turnouts. All of the rugs in this group test have been put through their paces by international para dressage rider Tamsin Addison and her team. Find out what she thought below

Official description: StormX Original 50g turnout

The StormX Original 50g turnout features a waterproof and breathable, 600D ripstop outer with taped seams, 50g filling and a full lining. Twin buckle chest straps, cross surcingles, and adjustable leg straps help hold the rug securely in place during blustery conditions. The fleece-lined wither area prevents rubbing and the large tail flap adds extra protection from the elements. The snazzy print is really striking and it’s the perfect rug for the changeable weather.

Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft

View at viovet.co.uk

First impressions

Unfortunately this rug arrived too late to be photographed and as it was just prior to the first lockdown, we weren’t able to rearrange this. The design of this rug really split opinions – some of our owners loved the design, while others really weren’t keen.

Overview of performance

This rug had a really good fit and it didn’t rub – not even on the chest where some of the heavier rugs pull back and rub the coat. We found it to be waterproof and breathable – even when we knew the horses had been running about a lot in the field, they didn’t appear to be sweaty. 

Tamsin’s likes and dislikes

We really liked the elasticated leg straps. The design really stood out, which meant it never got mixed up with any of the other rugs. 

You might also like:

A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

Verdict

The rug certainly does the job, but there’s no way your horse will blend into the background.

Welcome to our group test of lightweight turnouts. All of the rugs in this group test have been put through their paces by international para dressage rider Tamsin Addison and her team. Find out what she thought below

Official description: Ponyo 100g turnout rug with detachable neck 

The Ponyo 100g turnout rug with detachable neck comes in a tough 1200D ripstop fabric, which has passed rigorous fabric testing for durability and waterproofing. The detachable neck piece features a generous overlap, which prevents leaking and helps to maximise use in different weather conditions. The chest fastening is a twin D-ring attachment for convenience, with a handy Velcro flap to secure the rug in place.

Colours: Juicy watermelon, unicorn magic, flower power, sunshine mosaic, monkey bananas or geometric jungle

Sizes: 3ft – 6ft9in 

First impressions

This is a bright rug that stands out from the crowd – the team were split between those that really loved it and those who were not so sure. 

Overview of performance

This rug does the job – it stayed waterproof and was easy to fit to a wide range of horse shapes. We liked the front fastening with the two rings as this made putting it on and taking it off quick and efficient. You do need to take care that the Velcro strap doesn’t fold the wrong way though. 

Tamsin’s likes and dislikes

It’s certainly a stand out rug in appearance. The fabric was high quality and despite being worn by one of the more “vigorous” tester horses it stood up to the challenge. 

You might also like:

A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

Verdict

A fun rug that also stands up to the job.

Welcome to our group test of lightweight turnouts. All of the rugs in this group test have been put through their paces by international para dressage rider Tamsin Addison and her team. Find out what she thought below

Official description: Shires Tempest Original Air Motion Combo

For comfort in warmer wet conditions, the Shires Tempest Original Air Motion Combo turnout rugs are effective at keeping the rain off and improving comfort inside the rug for your horse. Lined across the back with Air Motion mesh, this ventilated 3D fabric draws moisture and heat into a cooling, breathable microclimate away from the skin. The warm surface of the horse is kept away from the cooler outer fabric for enhanced comfort. Additional key features include ShireTex600D ripstop fabric, waterproof and breathable outer with taped seams, integrated contour neck cover, adjustable buckle chest straps, adjustable cross surcingles, adjustable fillet strap, tail flap.

View now at viovet.co.uk or rideawaystore.com

First impressions

I was really impressed with the wicking fabric on the inside of the rug. 

Overview of performance

It performed well overall and the wicking properties were particularly effective. This rug was very waterproof – it had some serious testing – but it also remained waterproof even after several washes. The fit was a bit tighter compared to some of the others we tested.

Tamsin’s likes and dislikes

It’s a shame the rug didn’t come with a detachable neck, but I would recommend it for its wicking properties and the quality of the outer fabric. 

View now at viovet.co.uk or rideawaystore.com

You might also like:

A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

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.

Verdict

A good quality rug that really is waterproof.

Welcome to our group test of lightweight turnouts. All of the rugs in this group test have been put through their paces by international para dressage rider Tamsin Addison and her team. Find out what she thought below

Official description: Masta Vento lightweight turnout

The Masta Vento lightweight turnout is no-fill and has a standard neck. It has a shoulder gusset allowing for freedom of movement when the inevitable gallop around the field occurs and twin front fastenings, adjustable belly straps and fillet string.

Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft 

First impressions

This appeared to be a nice rug – I liked the shoulder darts and their trim detailing. 

Overview of performance

The rug performed well in general. However, we found the fabric wasn’t as robust as some of the others we tested and showed more signs of general wear and tear much sooner. The rug developed small holes and rips that weren’t critical as they didn’t let much water in, but I’m not convinced it would stand up to continued use across many seasons. Overall, it did the job but it wasn’t the best performer out of those that we tested and I think there are others available that are better value for money.

Tamsin’s likes and dislikes

This rug is a solid addition to the wardrobe but unfortunately it didn’t stand out from the crowd. 

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A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

Verdict

This rug is a solid addition to the wardrobe but didn’t stand out from the crowd. 

Welcome to our group test of lightweight turnouts. All of the rugs in this group test have been put through their paces by international para dressage rider Tamsin Addison and her team. Find out what she thought below

Official description: Horseware Rambo Summer Series 

The Horseware Rambo Summer Series is the ultimate trans-seasonal rug for mild climates – this turnout will take your horse from spring through to autumn. Bringing the best in technical softshell materials to the Rambo range, the Summer Series turnout offers a waterproof and breathable top section, polyester mesh sides and a 600D drip strip. It also has a silky polyester mane, tail and shoulder lining and removable 100g liner. The waterproof and breathable softshell top section is designed to prevent your horse from getting wet during summer showers, while the 100g liner keeps the chill off as temperatures drop overnight. It has an improved design to relieve wither pressure and the polyester mesh sides allow maximum breathability and airflow to keep your horse from overheating on hotter days. Elasticated cross surcingles offer improved fit with a V-front closure system to remove pressure from the shoulder and chest area. It also features a detachable hood.

Colours: Grey or burgundy

Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft3in 

View at ebay.co.uk

First impressions

The fabric seemed very comfortable as the silky lining ensured that there was no rubbing. 

Overview of performance

There was some concern over the buttons on the inside that attach the lining to the outer as they are quite big and could potentially be uncomfortable. Most who tried it thought it was easier to have two separate rugs – a lightweight and a rain sheet – than to try to combine the two into one rug. However, if you prefer to have just one this would be a good option for you – albeit not a cheap option.

Tamsin’s likes and dislikes

Some on my team really liked the adaptable nature of the lining and the outer, but many found it more fiddly to fit as you need to make sure the layers sit well together. Once we managed to get the rug to sit nicely, it did fit well. 

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A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

Verdict

Fiddly to fit, but good if you like an all-in-one rug with liners.

Welcome to our group test of lightweight turnouts. All of the rugs in this group test have been put through their paces by international para dressage rider Tamsin Addison and her team. Find out what she thought below

Official description: Rhinegold Arizona full neck turnout 

The Rhinegold Arizona full neck turnout has a 600D ripstop, waterproof breathable outer. It has 100g polyfill with a breathable nylon lining, quick-clip adjustable chest straps, front shoulder gusset, cross-over surcingles, leg straps and no back seam. It also features a large pleated tailguard with reflective stripe, a fixed neck cover and strengthened surcingle guides. It’s an ideal lightweight for horses that do not require heavyweight outdoor rugs or perfect for mid-season.

Weight: 100g

Colour: Navy

Sizes: 4ft6in – 7ft

View at amazon.co.uk

First impressions

This rug fitted fairly well, but was slightly heavier than some of the others we tested. 

Overview of performance

We give products a really thorough test here and this particular rug did rip – it did have some help from a neighbour – but this is the reality of turnout rugs. It kept the wearer dry, but the fixed neck did cause rubbing at the withers. The chest fastening had buckles and clips, which made it easy to adjust as well as easy to fasten.

Tamsin’s likes and dislikes

We liked that there was no back seam as this is often the place where rugs leak. There were times when we misjudged the weather and the horse was too warm in this rug. We prefer detachable necks so that we can remove it if the sun appears and the horse is a little hot. For this reason, we would be more likely to recommend a rug with a removable neck. 

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A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

Verdict

A good rug if you don’t mind a fixed neck.

Welcome to our group test of lightweight turnouts. All of the rugs in this group test have been put through their paces by international para dressage rider Tamsin Addison and her team. Find out what she thought below

Official description: Felix Bühler Timeless Elegance high-neck turnout

The Felix Bühler Timeless Elegance high-neck turnout is a waterproof and breathable rug made of particularly tear-resistant 1260D ripstop material in a classic checked look, with leather-look piping and embossed imitation leather badges. It features a shoulder gusset for optimum freedom of movement and smooth, coat-friendly lining. It has a practical double front fastening with two snap hooks, adjustable cross surcingles, tail flap and tail cord.

Sizes: 5ft6in – 7ft

Colours: Green lake or navy 

First impressions

This was a lovely looking rug and made of a very nice and quality-feeling fabric. 

Overview of performance

The fabric is really strong and it certainly kept the rain out. However, despite trying this on several horses in the yard we found it difficult to find a good fit – there is something about the shape over the lower and neck and withers that made it difficult to get it to sit comfortably. 

Tamsin’s likes and dislikes

There was reluctance to use this rug as much as the others we had on test as the fit didn’t work well for our horses. It was a real shame as the stitching and fabric appear to be very good. 

You might also like:

A pick of the best lightweight turnouts for changeable weather

Verdict

A good rug that didn’t reach its full potential as it didn’t fit our horses.

A new rug claimed to be the most sustainable in the world is made from the equivalent of 110 recycled plastic bottles.

The Derby House Evolution, which came on to the market last year as the first rug free of chemical PFC, has now been “taken to new heights” with its recycled content.

“In the world of equestrian, this is a unique offering and one that might just act as the gear change the industry needs,” a Derby House spokesman said.

“Using recycled plastics is exactly the kind of lever we need to be pulling when attempting to make recycling a viable solution. Recycling is broken. It’s a myth. Very little plastic is effectively recycled into something worthwhile, and even then, many items are only recycled once at best. It’s all heading to landfill, incineration, or back into our environment.

“What this shows is that trying to unbreak the recycling system by putting all the pressure on the individual is a flawed pursuit, especially when there’s no market for recycled materials.

“Producers and manufacturers need to create demand for recycled materials through products like the Derby House horse rug. Demand will improve recycling as a whole, and create more meaningful products as a result. Based on current rates, we could see more plastic than fish in the ocean by 2050. Alarming statistics like this, we think you’ll agree, underline the importance of doing something now.”

The spokesman told H&H that PFCs, per- or poly-fluorinated chemicals, are used to make fabrics waterproof, but these are harmful to the environment. The Evolution uses a different waterproofing agent, and Derby House hopes to expand its use of PFC-free fabrics in its rugs.

“Not only is it better for the environment, the PFC-free Derby House rug repels dirt better and dries quicker than PFC coated rugs,” the spokesman said

“It’s a clear example of how stuck in a rut we’ve been with industry standards, with sustainable options often being better in more ways than one.”

The spokesman added that the way the rug is delivered has not been ignored; Derby House packaging is 99.81% plastic-free.

“There’s always a better way,” she said. “We simply need to press pause from time to time, consider things as they are, and make better decisions.”

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

Call us over-optimistic, but with the sun shining today it’s got us thinking — could spring be lurking around the corner? We think it might be (preferably with a lot less rain too)...

1. It’s WHAT time and it’s still light?

You’ve begun your annual ritual of tracking minute-by-minute as the amount of daylight increases and started to chart when you’re going to be able to fit in a post-work ride.

2. Clothes confusion

You’ve booked your tickets to the Grand National — but what on earth are you going to wear? In fear of being named and shamed in the Daily Mail’s annual round-up of inappropriate get-ups, you might have to opt for tweed — and just embrace overheating.

3. Tackling the electric fencingYou know that the new grass is going to catch you by surprise and that only means one thing — you have an afternoon of unraveling last year’s tape ahead of you. Note to self: don’t put it away in a hurry next time.

4. Guilt-free turnout is in sightYou’re counting the days until you can turn your horse out for the night without pangs of guilt — and enjoy the luxury of not having to muck out in the morning. What will you do with all that extra time?

5. Putting your winter-warmers awayYou’ve remembered what feeling your toes is like post-mucking out. And you’ve downgraded to fumble-free fingerless gloves.

6. Going on a hunting bingeYou’re panic booking days off work for some mid-week hunting to get your fix before the season ends.

7. Terrifying flowersYou have to sit tight riding into the woods as your horse knows those snowdrops were absolutely definitely not there last week and they are very white and very scary and therefore worthy of great suspicion, wide nostrils and sudden about turns.

8 . What’s that smell?The muckheap is at its mighty, steaming height, signalling the need for imminent removal and (hallelujah) horses soon going out for longer.

9. Eventing excitement

It’s just weeks until the eventing season kicks off at Isleham, which means it’s time to start manically Googling where you can get in some pre-season cross-country schooling.

Continued below…

The countdown is on: 15 signs the eventing season is just around the corner

With the impending season comes some sudden realisations, last-minute panics and a collective racking of brains…

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

10. Remembering what warm feels like

You begin a schooling session in four layers and a thick scarf, and have to strip down to a t-shirt after just 10 minutes. Your red complexion has got you questioning your fitness…

11. Remembering how to sit a buck

There’s a general increase in impulsion/enthusiasm/airs above the ground from your four months-deprived now sugar-high equine.

12. Clipping dilemmas

To clip or not to clip? Making the agonising decision about whether there’s time for one more. And then rug quandaries begin. If only your horse could let you know if he’s too hot… and could swap his rug accordingly.

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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

Welcome to our group test of medium-weight turnout rugs. All of the rugs in this group test have been put through their paces by five-star event rider Jo Rimmer. Find out what she thought below.

Official description

The Weatherbeeta ComFiTec Premier Trio Detach-A-Neck medium turnout is strong and durable with a 1200-denier triple-weave outer. It features waterproof breathable repel shell coating. The rug is 100g polyfill and comes with a 210-denier 200g polyfill liner. Other features include shoulder gussets and traditional side gusset for natural movement, a single touch tape chest strap and touch tape tabs on the neck, trigger clips at the rear, plus memory foam wither relief that lifts the rug off the wither to reduce rubbing and provide added comfort. The rug also has quick-clip front closure that offers maximum adjustability, elasticated adjustable removable leg straps for a secure and comfortable fit, reflective strips on the front each side and tail flap for added visibility, twin low cross surcingles, plus a large tail flap for additional protection. 300g and 100g liners also available separately.

View at viovet.co.uk