Horse Rug Types – An Introduction

You may be new to horse keeping or are just a bit confused with the wide range of horse rug types on offer. We’ve put together this quick blog post to go over all the different kinds so you have a full understanding of which one your horse may need.

Standard

A standard horse rug stops at the horse’s wither, exposing the horse’s neck. This is perfect for warmer climates and helps keep your horse slightly cooler.

Combo

Combo-style rugs have a neck permanently attached to the rest of the rug, which covers the horse’s neck up to the ears. This is perhaps the most popular style of the rug as it offers more warmth and protection. You also won’t have to worry about losing the neck piece or if there is any leakage, as it’s attached.

Fly Sheets

A fly sheet or fly rug is one that protects your horse from flies in the summer. They are usually very lightweight and made of fine mesh (the finer the mesh, the more protection from flies they will get).  Some fly rugs may even come with masks to place over your horse’s eyes which are particularly sensitive areas.

Travel Rugs

Travel rugs are made to be used while the horse travels somewhere. They offer protection from flies and dust which they may come into contact with while traveling.

Stable Rugs

A stable rug is only suitable for inside a stable as its name suggests. They are usually thick to offer warmth, but not waterproof like others as the horse should be protected already from the rain in the stable.

Under Rug

Under blankets or under rugs are placed underneath another rug to provide extra protection and warmth as opposed to a single rug. They may also stop rubbing from a different kind of rug.

Fleece & Cooler Rugs

Fleece horse rugs are lightweight, thin, and breathable and mostly used when the weather outside is warmer but not warm enough to have no rug on at all. They are also used to draw moisture away from the horse after exercise and keep them cool.

Winter Turnouts

Winter turnouts are used to protect the horse while it is out in the field during those colder months of the year. They should be waterproof in order to protect your horse from harsh weather. They are usually available in many thicknesses depending on how cold the weather outside may be.

Summer Turnouts

Summer turnouts are used to protect the horse while it is out in the field during those warmer months of the year. They should be waterproof in order to protect your horse from any harsh weather that may occur. They are usually available in many thicknesses depending on how warm the weather outside may be.