How to choose my rugs / exercise sheets this winter? π₯°π
Rain and cold are officially making their comeback... π But don't worry β to help you face the elements with confidence, we thought a little refresher on **rug fill weights** and their different **uses** might help you make the right choice β€οΈ Ready? Let's dive in! π₯
Tailoring the equipment to each horse and their daily routine β
Every horse is unique, and it's worth remembering that their need for rugs β and the right type β depends on their age, any health conditions, the intensity of their ridden work, and their lifestyle.Β
A horse living out in the field without shelter won't need the same coverage as a horse kept in a stable π
Some horses are perfectly happy spending winter outside without any rug at all, but depending on certain factors, others will need a helping hand β whether to avoid losing too much weight, or to dry off more quickly after a schooling session β¨
Which rugs for a clipped horse? π
If you've chosen to clip your horse, they'll need to be well-rugged to cope with the cold when turned out to the paddock, or when you work them β whether on the lunge or under saddle.Β
Clipping should help your horse sweat less during exercise, and dry off much more quickly π₯°
So, which rug should you choose for different moments of the day and varying temperatures? π
You'll need to adjust the fill weight according to the weather. For a fully clipped horse, we recommend:
- For temperatures of 10Β°C or above: waterproof 0g rug or no rug
- For temperatures between 5 and 10Β°C: waterproof rug or 150g
- For temperatures between 0 and 5Β°C: 200g or moreΒ
- For temperatures below 0Β°C: 300g or more
These fill weights are purely indicative and not absolute β feel free to adjust based on how your horse handles the cold or their lifestyle. β€οΈ
Our rug wishlist for a clipped horse π
We start with the waterproof rug β perfect for rainy, windy days or the first hints of cold that start creeping in during autumn πΒ
We've chosen a waterproof rug from Riding World, with a fleece-lined interior to minimise rubbing. It adapts perfectly to the horse's shape thanks to its gussets and tail flap ππΌ
Next up, a 150g rug β we've gone for one with a detachable neck cover so you can always fine-tune your horse's equipment to their needs π
An EquithΓ¨me rug that is both supple and durable, with plenty of adjustment options to ensure the perfect fit π
The perfect rug for the transition from late autumn into early winter β which can sometimes be truly freezing β is the 200g π₯Ά With its integrated neck cover, it distributes warmth evenly across the horse's body and reduces the risk of rubbing or irritation β€οΈ
Its cut follows every movement of the horse perfectly, making it ideal for the paddock or field π₯
And for the most extreme cold... π± We love a 2-in-1 Horseware rug that lets you adjust the weight and fill to suit the temperature outside! The liner system means no need to layer multiple sheets or sub-rugs β and fewer straps to worry about, which can sometimes pose a risk to the horse β€οΈ
Warmth and waterproofing are both guaranteed here β
And what about during work? π₯°
When it comes to groundwork, there are two schools of thought: the first opts for exercise rugs β great for freeing up the shoulders while keeping the horse's back warm β and the second prefers a surcingle with a pad and their usual exercise sheet β¨
Personally, we love both! It really depends on the horse and how they work.
Our favourite for exercise rugs is, without a doubt, the Kentucky waterproof ππΌ It's warm, elegant and genuinely practical for everyday use π
And for exercise rugs, we're obsessed with the new Flags & Cup collection! An elegant design that promises outstanding protection in the rain and cold alike, thanks to the combination of fleece and waterproof fabric β€οΈ
For horses that come in at night, or spend time in the stable during the day, you can switch rugs to ensure their comfort β and swap out any outdoor rug that got soaked in the rain βοΈΒ
We recommend having a fleece rug and a warmer rug on hand.Β
For the fleece, we love this one β perfect for keeping your horse comfortable during transport too π
And for colder nights, we're completely smitten with the new Harcour collection β the colours are simply stunning π The perfect blend of style and comfort π
Now let's move on to the unclipped horse β€οΈ
For horses that manage winter perfectly well with their fluffy natural coat, we still have a few rugs to recommend to help prevent chills π
To rug an unclipped horse, we recommend:
- For temperatures of 10Β°C or above : no rug
- For temperatures between 5 and 10Β°C: waterproof rug or no rug
- For temperatures between 0 and 5Β°C: waterproof rug or 150g
- For temperatures below 0Β°C: 200 or 300g (or more)
Beyond these everyday recommendations, we believe it's important to use a cooler rug after exercise to avoid turning the horse out while still warm and sweaty β€οΈ
Our rug wishlist for an unclipped horse β
When the rain and wind roll in, it's time for the **waterproof rug**! The all-purpose cover you'll be so glad to have this autumn π₯°
We love this EquithΓ¨me rug, which offers every possible adjustment and attachment option ππΌ
And for the colder temperatures, we love a Horseware! The upfront cost is higher, but you get a rug that truly stands the test of time β and you can attach liners underneath to fine-tune the warmth β€οΈ
And finally, as we mentioned β a cooler rug to add extra comfort after a workout β It can also be used before exercise to help warm up your horse's back before they take on the rider's weight.
And there you have it! You now know all our little tips for facing the cold and wet this winter while keeping your horses as comfortable as possible π So, which rug (or rugs!) will you be treating yourself to? Come find us on Instagram and tell us everything in the DMs π₯°
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