Meowy Catkin
Meow!
Rambo in comparison is about twice the price" eeek! are the really worth it?
IME, yes. I have known perfectly usable Rambos (a couple of patches and a replaced strap) that was 17 years old (it was a purple Wug, for those that know the rugs). I will be disappointed if my Duo doesn't make 15 years of use. Even now it has been good value. I think it was about £200 back when I bought it, so that is a cost of £18.18 per year, but that will go down as time goes on. I've never had it washed or reproofed. The liners get bunged in the washing machine and I wash the outer down with plain water if required before storing.
Do you have any friends with Horseware rugs? It would be worth trying one on your horse in the right size if you can, just to check that it fits as they don't adjust at the front. Or to see if you need to go up a size.
RE other makes, Bucas are good too (but NOT the sunshower). I do like the high denier weatherbeetas and high denier shires rugs. I have one Shires that is 2000 denier (stormcheeta?) and a typhoon that is also a good high denier shires rug. Basically I want a high denier outer, preferably made of nylon and a lining that is silky as my horses rub easily and cotton linings are a no go. A good fit is important too and some makes fit certain body types better than others.