Choosing the best rug for your horse is not always an easy task. This guide will give you some tips and advice on which horse rug to use for which occasion, temperature and weather.
Many people base their choice of horse rug on how they themselves experience the outdoor temperature. This can be somewhat misleading - as horses have fur and can withstand more cold than us humans. The most comfortable temperature for horses is between 5 and 15 degrees outside temperature - so they are most comfortable in much colder temperatures than we are. Instead of choosing the right rug for the horse based on your own perception, look at the horse's needs related to activity, environment, location and coat.
Start from the individual
Every horse has different needs, so it's important to consider the specific needs of your own. When the horse is in the stable, the temperature determines how cold or warm it is. But when it's out in the paddock, being ridden or active, we also need to consider the weather.
How old is your horse?
An older horse has a greater need for a rug than a young horse. This is because an older horse no longer has the same ability to produce heat. A rug will help it stay warm and conserve energy.
Does the horse have a lot of fur or is it shaved?
The condition of the horse's coat is also crucial when it comes to choosing a rug. A competitive horse that is shaven or clipped will need the protection of a rug more than a horse that still has a full coat. Trace clipped or partially shaven horses usually do not need a rug unless it is cold, if the horse is prone to stiffness or if the horse is damp or wet after exercise.
Does the horse have access to feed?
Free access to feed provides better conditions for the horse to stay warm. This is because horses generate energy while they eat, making it easier to maintain their body temperature. Therefore, a horse with free access to hay is better able to keep warm. It has less need for a warm rug than a horse that does not have the same access during the day.
What are the conditions in the horse's outdoor environment?
When choosing a rug for your horse, it's important to consider various environmental factors. Think about whether your horse is primarily stabled or spends significant time outdoors, especially in different weather conditions. For horses that go outside occasionally, the rug's resistance to rain may be a factor. For those that are mostly outside, factors like warmth and waterproofing become more critical. Additionally, consider whether your horse has access to shelter, as this can influence the level of protection needed. Ultimately, the choice should reflect the specific conditions your horse faces daily.
Different types of horse rugs
There is a whole range of different horse rugs, with many different uses and purposes. There are also multifunctional rugs that can be used in multiple ways and be combined with other rugs. Fleece rugs and mesh rugs are examples of the latter; they can be used as anything from sweat rugs to stable rugs, for transport, for summer, for use both indoors and outdoors - or as additional layer under another rug.
Therapeutic horse rugs from Back on Track
There is a whole range of different horse rugs, with many different uses and purposes. There are also multifunctional rugs that can be used in multiple ways and be combined with other rugs. Fleece rugs and mesh rugs are examples of the latter; they can be used as anything from sweat rugs to stable rugs, for transport, for summer, for use both indoors and outdoors - or as an additional layer under another rug. Here you can find the different types of horse rugs and their characteristics:
Turnout Rugs
Don't let rain and bad weather stop your horse from having a great day out in the paddock! The right choice of rug will keep it warm and comfortable. The ideal turnout rug should be both waterproof and highly breathable.
Our Turnout Rug “Brianna” is waterproof, durable and of excellent quality. The high breathability together with the lightweight 50 g filling make this a truly versatile rug, that can be used in both lower and higher temperatures.
The utterly elegant Turnout Rug “Obsidian” is an adaptable, truly multifunctional rug available in three different thicknesses (0/150/300g) and includes a detachable neck cover.
The Back on Track® Equine Frost Rug is a durable outdoor rug crafted from breathable, rain-resistant fabric. Lined with innovative Welltex™ material and featuring a 330g insulating filling, it offers warmth and provides exceptional winter protection. Its tough 1680 denier outer layer boasts an impressive 3000mm water column, ensuring superior water resistance and winter protection.
In this category:
Turnout Rug “Obsidian” 0g, 150g, 300g
Winter Rugs
During the cold winter days, your horse may need a warm winter covering. The warmth of winter rugs varies, depending on the amount of filling. This means that you may need different rugs for different temperatures and weather conditions. A winter rug can have anything from 100g to 700g of filling - but lighter rugs can of course also be combined with another layer or with a liner to achieve additional warmth and insulation.
Tip!
Use your horse's rain- and turnout rugs even in winter. You can easily adjust the level of warmth by putting a stable rug underneath. These are also available with different fillings. The Millie Stable Rug is available with both 100g and 200g filling and is a good e
