First horse rug essentials

[criso]

That's why I use turnout only. Normally the rain washes them before it gets that level.

That hasn't been my experience. When they lie/sit down it gets into the lining especially at the back. It's the same bit that gets bad on the stable rugs but I don't have to worry about reproofing or whether they are waterproof after.

 

[criso]

I like the 50g turnout as it can be used on the days when you just want to keep the rain off them but I find that a no fill turnout often leaks

I might buy a 50g when I need to replace but in the meantime I have an older Weatherbeeta freestyle and a Rhino Wug, both no fill and both completely waterproof in the heaviest of downpours. Not sure the newer models are as good though.

 

[marmalade76]

That hasn't been my experience. When they lie/sit down it gets into the lining especially at the back. It's the same bit that gets bad on the stable rugs but I don't have to worry about reproofing or whether they are waterproof after.

Agreed.
Turnout rugs are best washed as little as possible, stable rugs you could wash every week if you wanted. Not saying I never leave a turnout on overnight, sometimes I do if they're soaked 'cause they always dry when left on and not always when taken off but don't make a habit of it because despite having a big 14x12 stable and a fairly small 15h horse, she often sleeps in her poo and one of her predecessors seemed to make a point of it!

 

[AthenesOwl]

Congratulations! How exciting.

I am now two months into owning my first horse, and rugs have been pretty much the most confusing part of horse ownership.

My chap is an ISH, lives out 24/7 and is unclipped, and I went totally OTT panic buying rugs. For example, I wish I’d thought about layering up a couple of rugs for really cold days. I also wish I’d realised it was possible to buy rugs with attachments for neck attachments but without the neck. I’ve not used the necks that came with the rugs I bought, although it’s nice to have the option.

I can’t comment on stable rugs, and as I live in the east of Scotland, telling you what weight of turnout rugs I use probably isn’t that helpful either.

However, I’d recommend 1200D turnout rugs, if possible, because they’re more resistant to tearing. And if possible, find out what brand your new horse is currently wearing to get an idea of what sort of fit works best. Some brands are better for narrower horses, some for broader types.

I didn’t manage to get any bargains, buying rugs in November, except the half price fly rug, but you might be luckier now that we’re further through the winter.